A £160 million construction project has been launched at RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk.

Contractors Kier and VolkerFitzpatrick are delivering the scheme in a joint venture on behalf of the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO).

The project will involve the construction of a flight simulator facility, a maintenance unit, new hangars and storage facilities. The area will house two US Air Force F35 squadrons, becoming the first permanent international site for US Air Force F-35s in Europe.

At the height of construction, it is expected that there will be up to 700 people on site supporting the programme. The investment will also provide wider benefits both to the project and to the local economy. 

-- Advertisement --

Construction materials from the demolished buildings have been reused on site for subbase for carparks, roads and other hard standing areas. There will also be a concrete plant on site reducing carbon miles and traffic in the community. 

USAF 48th Fighter Wing Commander, Colonel Will Marshall, said: "This ceremony is an exciting milestone for the Liberty Wing as we prepare this installation to welcome two squadrons of F-35A Lighting II aircraft and supporting personnel. Breaking ground on this project takes us one step closer to becoming a more lethal and ready force as U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa's premier combat wing."

DIO USVF Programme Director, Keith Maddison, added: "DIO is proud to be working with the US Air Force and Kier VolkerFitzpatrick to deliver this exciting project. 

"The infrastructure being delivered will benefit the local economy by providing a range of training and employment opportunities as well as demonstrating our long and proud history of supporting US Air Force capability in the UK."

The base will be ready to welcome the first of the new aircraft in late 2021. 

(CM/MH)