High Court papers submitted by the MoD in response to the claim accept for the first time that the reconnaissance aircraft, which exploded mid-air in Afghanistan, was "not airworthy". On 2 September 2006, a Royal Air ForceHawker Siddeley Nimrodsuffered an in-flight fire and subsequently crashed in Kandahar, Afghanistan, killing all fourteen crew members on board. These included Iraq, Northern Ireland and Afghanistan and his operational performance was invariably of the highest order. All seven crew were killed. On 4 December 2007 the report of the findings of the official Board of Inquiry into the loss of XV230 was published. Defence secretary Des Browne said 21 of the 30 were being implemented and three considered, while six were "on hold". Nimrod XV230 Crew (Air Crash in Afghanistan) previous. It’s simple to add images, categories, latest post, social media icon links, tag clouds, and more. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) then suspended all in-flight refuelling of the Nimrod fleet. [3] According to Jane's Information Group , XV230 was one of six Nimrods equipped with an L … An intelligent individual with a mature attitude, Marine Windall was often employed on tasks requiring the ability to work unsupervised and with a great deal of initiative. Nov 1980: Nimrod crashes after bird strike near Kinloss, Moray. Sergeant John Langton, 29, from Liverpool was a highly professional member of the Royal Air Force who had an illustrious career as a RAF Regiment Gunner before joining No. A keen outdoor enthusiast and talented rock climber, Swarbs will leave a huge gap on No.120 Sqn and with those who loved him dearly. Articles with dead external links from October 2014, Articles with dead external links from April 2015, Articles incorporating text from Wikipedia, Accidents and incidents involving Royal Air Force aircraft, An old 1970's cutaway of Nimrod MR1 XV230 retouched by, http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1970/1970%20-%200153.html, http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1969/1969%20-%202966.html, "Blast fears as Nimrod planes leak fuel on spy missions", http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article1937063.ece, "Biggest military loss since start of Afghan war is 'terrible accident'", http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2087-2340566,00.html, http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2006410086,00.html, PR Newswire : Release of Nimrod XY230 board of inquiry (BOI), "Nimrod inquest coroner declares whole fleet 'never airworthy' ", "MoD accused of costcutting on crash plane", http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article1687498.ece, "Air hero's dad and MP call for Nimrod replacements", http://www.bridgwatermercury.co.uk/news/bmnewsbridgwater/display.var.1582433.0.air_hero_dad_and_mp_call_for_nimrod_replacements.php, http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200607/cmhansrd/cm070723/text/70723w0009.htm#07072411000969, "RAF Kinloss: Scrapped replacement for Nimrod 'largely completed'", http://news.scotsman.com/scotland/RAF-Kinloss-Scrapped-replacement-.6633252.jp, http://news.scotsman.com/uk.cfm?id=1391572007, http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7932791.stm, http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/europe/nimrod-losses-xv230.htm, "Defence minister glossed over Nimrod safety fears", http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/defence-minister-glossed-over-nimrod-safety-fears-1674390.html, http://news.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/bsp/hi/pdfs/04_12_07nimrod.pdf, Cost Cuts Led to British Jet Crash, Study Says, http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/AboutDefence/CorporatePublications/BoardsOfInquiry/BoiNimrodMr2Xv230.htm, http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7416627.stm, http://www.nimrod-review.org.uk/linkedfiles/nimrod_review/press_notice_3.pdf, "RAF Commander admits to shredding spy plane documents", http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article6395963.ece, http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7797582.stm, "MoD admits responsibility for Afghanistan Nimrod explosion deaths", http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/defence/5071466/MoD-admits-responsibility-for-Afghanistan-Nimrod-explosion-deaths.html, Post crash photograph of the tail section of XV230, Accident / Serious Incident Report for 2006 Royal Air Force Nimrod crash, The Nimrod Review: an independent review into the broader issues surrounding the loss of the RAF Nimrod MR2 aircraft XV230 in Afghanistan in 2006 report, Summary of the BOI into the crash of XV230 on 2 September 2006, "Ainsworth apologises for loss of Nimrod XV230", Fourteen personnel in Afghanistan Nimrod crash named, https://military.wikia.org/wiki/2006_Royal_Air_Force_Nimrod_crash?oldid=4407789, Nimrod MR1 XV230 cutaway and weapon loadout, Its production is a story of incompetence, complacency and cynicism. [18], There are those who opine that the loss was a foreseeable consequence of design and production failures.[19]. 1982: Used in Falklands war. The immediate cause of the fire was aviation fuel coming into contact with a high temperature ignition source. "[17], In March 2009, following continued questions about the safety of the Nimrod fleet and despite constantly stating that the aircraft were airworthy, the MoD grounded the Nimrod fleet for "vital safety modification[s]". Concerns about the safety of the Nimrod fleet have continued to surface since the loss of XV230. The station is in mourning. It is with very great sadness and regret that the Ministry of Defence has confirmed the names of the fourteen British personnel killed following the crash of a Nimrod MR2 aircraft in Afghanistan on Saturday 2 September 2006. It exploded in a ball of flames just moments after air-to-air refuelling near Kandahar in September 2006. Mr Jones, who worked on Nimrod fleet and advises the bereaved families of the 2006 crash, wants Mr Fox to give Lord Philip a 1998 report on the Nimrod's airworthiness. All seven crew were killed. Engine bay hot air ducts and fuel seals were to be replaced. ". The crew, most of whom were based at RAF Kinloss in Moray, Scotland, died on September 2, 2006, when their Nimrod exploded moments after mid-air refuelling above Kandahar. He was a devoted husband to Adele and a doting father to Abigail and Graeme. Populate the sidearea with useful widgets. "[24], The Terms of Reference for the Nimrod Review were set out by the Secretary of State for Defence, Des Browne, on 13 December 2007. His great sense of fun and compassion made him an exceptional crew member. [20] The Independent newspaper claimed that a report into the safety of Britain's ageing fleet of Nimrods, which a defence minister claimed did not reveal "any significant airworthiness issues", exposed almost 1,500 faults – 26 of which threatened the aircraft's safety. The crash, which occurred during a reconnaissance flight, was the biggest single loss of life suffered by the British military since the Falklands War. The damning report into the crash of RAF Nimrod XV230 over Afghanistan in 2006 singles out 10 people for criticism. It is with very great sadness and regret that the Ministry of Defence has confirmed the names of the fourteen British personnel killed following the crash of a Nimrod … Mr Jones said extracts of the Nimrod report could be found in the 2009 Charles Haddon-Cave QC report - a highly critical paper on the MoD's safety procedures prior to the 2006 Nimrod crash. Flight Sergeant Adrian ‘Ady’ Davies, 49 and from Amersham, Bucks, was a dedicated family man, a loving husband and a father of four children. Officer Commanding 120 Squadron, based at RAF Kinloss, Wing Commander Martin Cannard added: 120 Squadron has suffered a profound loss. The Nimrod MR2 was based at RAF Kinloss in Scotland. Parents of Nimrod crash victim awarded £200,000 . ‘Langy’ had an enthusiastic passion for fast cars and motorbikes and was extremely proud of his Yamaha R1. Concerns were again raised when on 5 November 2007, Nimrod XV235 was reported to have suffered a similar fuel leak. On September 2, 2006, Nimrod MR2 XV230, a reconnaissance aircraft in the Royal Air Force, flew over Southern Afghanistan in support of a NATO-led offensive against the Taliban. [8], A board of inquiry report was released in December 2007.[9]. One of the most experienced aviators on the maritime fleet, he was always quick and willing to impart his knowledge and understanding to the benefit of his crew-mates and the Squadron as a whole. This was the sport in which he excelled, sharing his experience with countless people over his years as a Kinloss club instructor. He was an exceptional pilot, aircraft captain and flying instructor whose experience and professionalism has touched a whole generation of Air Force pilots. On 2 September 2006, a Royal Air Force Hawker Siddeley Nimrod suffered an in-flight fire and subsequently crashed in Kandahar, Afghanistan, killing all fourteen crew members on board. ... 2003: Used in second Gulf War. next. Flight Sergeant Gary Andrews, aged 48, was from Tankerton in Kent. The 14 crew … He had a natural ability and personality that perfectly suited him to the Nimrod role. 11 years later, 2nd September 2006, Nimrod XV230 crashed whilst carrying out a NATO mission near Kandahar in Afghanistan. With a strong sense of humour, he could always raise the spirits and morale of his colleagues. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Flight Lieutenant Steven Johnson, aged 38, from Collingham, Notts, Flight Lieutenant Leigh Anthony Mitchelmore, aged 28 from Bournemouth, Flight Lieutenant Gareth Rodney Nicholas, aged 40 from Newquay, Cornwall, Flight Lieutenant Allan James Squires , aged 39, from Clatterbridge, Flight Lieutenant Steven Swarbrick, aged 28, from Liverpool, Flight Sergeant Gary Wayne Andrews, aged 48 from Tankerton in Kent, Flight Sergeant Stephen Beattie, aged 42 from Dundee, Flight Sergeant Gerard Martin Bell, aged 48, was from Ely, Cambridgeshire, Flight Sergeant Adrian Davies, aged 49 from Amersham, Bucks, Sergeant Benjamin James Knight aged 25 from Bridgwater, Sergeant John Joseph Langton, aged 29 from Liverpool, Sergeant Gary Paul Quilliam, aged 42 from Manchester, Corporal Oliver Simon Dicketts, the Parachute Regiment, aged 27, Marine Joseph David Windall, Royal Marines, aged 22. Share page. All 14 people onboard XV230 were killed which included 12 RAF Crew, 1 Marine and 1 member of the British Army. "[10], There have been concerns in the British media about serviceability of the Nimrod fleet[11] and bereaved families are having to wait for years for the Oxfordshire coroner's office to hold inquests into military deaths. As the match secretary for the Forres Blue Fins, Ady coached many a young swimmer, including two of his daughters. The damning report into the crash of RAF Nimrod XV230 over Afghanistan in 2006 singles out 10 people for criticism. Everyone will understand that our first priority is to inform and support the families of those on board. Four separate factors were listed as contributing to the accident:[21] Age of the aircraft; Maintenance policy; Failure of hazard analysis and lack of a fire detection and suppression system; Not identifying the full implications of successive changes to the fuel system and associated procedures. One India One Plan ; Stock Tips. Flt Lt Allan Squires, 39, from Clatterbridge, was a universally loved and respected member of the Kinloss family. [5], The crash site was about 25 miles (40 kilometres) west-north-west of Kandahar Airfield (which is located 10 miles (16 kilometres) south-east of the city of Kandahar) between two villages called Chil Khor and Fatehullah Qala in the Panjwaye District. September 1995 A Nimrod crashes during a display at Toronto Air Show, Canada. Flt Lt Steve Swarbrick, or ‘Swarbs’ as he was universally known, 28, from Liverpool, was a loyal, dependable and fully committed young pilot with the world at his feet. This tragic incident should serve to remind us all of the risks the British military shoulder on all our behalf across the world every day. He was also quoted as saying "Everybody's thoughts are with the families and friends of those who lost their lives. This led to the loss of the aircraft and all 14 service personnel.The immediate cause of the fire was aviation fuel coming into contact with a high temperature ignition source. He failed properly to utilise the resources available to him within the Nimrod IPT to ensure the airworthiness of the Nimrod fleet. Since completing this course Marine Windall had been busy deploying all around the world for training exercises and operational tours. 120 Squadron early in 2005. The probe comes after a report into the disaster - … All seven crew members survived. Home; About Investo Research; Services. SEVERAL RAF aircrew have resigned amid serious concerns over the safety of the force’s ageing Nimrod spy plane following a crash in Afghanistan in which 14 servicemen died. Sep 1995: Seven crew die in crash at air display in Toronto. Nimrod crash in Afghanistan killed 14 servicemen in 2006 At least 10 pilots and crew have quit their posts at RAF Kinloss in the last decade because of safety concerns over the ageing Nimrod … A NIMROD crashed with the loss of 14 servicemen because defence chiefs put cost cuts before safety, an investigation has found. Their brother and son Sgt. The crew … September 2006 Fire starts on Nimrod XV230, causing it … It’s simple to add images, categories, latest post, social media icon links, tag clouds, and more. Recovery. I can say, however, at this stage all the indications are that this was a terrible accident and not the result of hostile action. After approximately 35 minutes of flight, following a test of the aircraft's anti-icing system, the No 4 engine fire warning illuminated. This led to the loss of the aircraft and all 14 service personnel. An effervescent character who lived life to the full, his dream was to become a Pilot in the Royal Air Force. The crash, which occurred during a reconnaissanceflight, was the biggest single loss of life suffered by the British military since the Falklands War. Not long after Nimrod disengaged from the Tristar airborne tanker, two nearly … Gez was a devoted family man to Fiona and loving father to Ann Marie and Charlene. [22], Links into the full report on the XV230 accident can be found here [23], On 23 May 2008, the coroner who led the inquest into these deaths stated that the entire Nimrod fleet had "never been airworthy from the first time it was released to service" and urged that it should be grounded. Having served on all the Kinloss squadrons, Steve’s professional ability, coupled with his dry sense of humour and positive attitude, was well known to everyone. In June/July 2006 XV230 was given the capability to transmit real-time video imagery from the MX-15 to ground stations and commanders. A sports ‘nut’, he could always be relied upon for comment on the England cricket team and his dedication to his much-loved Liverpool FC. There was no doubt that the culture of the time had switched. On 2 September 2006, a Royal Air ForceHawker Siddeley Nimrodsuffered an in-flight fire and subsequently crashed in Kandahar, Afghanistan, killing all fourteen crew members on board. Steadfast in his role on No 120 Squadron he was a truly outstanding Royal Air Force aviator. The 37-year-old reconnaissance plane exploded just minutes after undergoing air-to-air refuelling near Kandahar on 2 September 2006, killing all on board. But Westminster SNP leader Angus Robertson said it was "unacceptable" they had not all been fully introduced. He will be sadly missed by all who had the good fortune to know him. Both pilots killed but other crew survive. A terrible loss to all, but particularly to his long time partner Kate, his parents Margaret and Joe, his brother Steve and sister Christine. At Broadhurst's invitation, Lady Lapsley performed the naming ceremony. Mr Haddon-Cave accused Baber of a "fundamental failure of leadership" in drawing up the "safety case" into potential dangers in the fleet: "He failed to give the NSC (Nimrod safety case) the priority it deserved. Gary was an experienced SNCO who had recently returned to the job he loved - on the Front Line, in his third tour of duty on the Nimrod MR2. Flt Lt Steve Johnson, 38, from Collingham, Notts, was a highly intelligent individual and a very capable navigator. Flight Sergeant Gerard Bell, better known to his colleagues as ‘Gez’, aged 48, was from Ely, Cambridgeshire. This information is not presented as the Flight Safety Foundation or the Aviation Safety Network’s opinion as to the cause of the accident. We use this information to make the website work as well as possible and improve government services. The families of two members of the crew of a United Kingdom RAF Hawker Siddeley Nimrod which crashed almost exactly two years ago during a mission in Afghanistan are suing their government. As well as first class personnel these were colleagues and friends of myself and my other personnel. The Nimrod display aircraft and crew had deployed to Canada on 23 August 1995 for displays at Canadian Forces Base Shearwater and the Canadian International Air Show (CIAS) at Toronto. [3], According to Jane's Information Group, XV230 was one of six Nimrods equipped with an L-3 Wescam MX-15 electro-optical turret in 2003. » British Armed Forces killed in Afghanistan (Ministry of Defence, 2-9-2006) » Crashed RAF Nimrod identified (Jane’s Defence Weekly, 5-9-2006) » Nimrod crew 'made mayday call (Channel 4 News, 4-9-2006) Photos. Ady will be sadly missed by all those that knew him. The fuel appears to have leaked into the bomb bay where it caught fire, either as the result of an electrical fault or hot air leaking from a heating pipe. Several hours after takeoff, the 14-member crew paused operations for in-flight refueling, then prepared to resume its mission. This was implemented under Project Broadsword.[4]. In sport, he was a gifted runner who trained hard and raced hard. Tweet. Not his call. Nimrod crash review: MoD put budget targets ahead of safety Fourteen servicemen who died when their Nimrod spy plane crashed in Afghanistan lost … All were long serving and experienced air crew and were known to me personally. September 1995 A Nimrod crashes during a display at Toronto Air Show, Canada. This image was created and shared by: S Williams. Marine Joseph ‘Joe’ David Windall was born on 18th April 1984. A 12-month wait is a disgrace - Publication dates have been put back and put back and the Ministry of Defence should get on with it. He was a consummate professional whose sharp sense of humour and great sense of occasion could make any moment special. A jury awards £200,000 in compensation to a couple whose son died after a Nimrod plane exploded over Afghanistan. Flt Lt Leigh Mitchelmore, 28 and from Bournemouth, was a young and highly enthusiastic Nimrod Weapon System Operator with a very bright future. The aircraft landed safely. September 2006 Fire starts on Nimrod XV230, causing it … Map. So on this day they honour and remember all those that lost their lives on the two aircraft which were: XV239 [25], It emerged in May 2009 that an RAF commander destroyed a number of official documents after the loss of Nimrod XV230. Throughout his lengthy career with the maritime fleet, Gary constantly offered unstinting support to all his colleagues and his impressive contribution to the Station will be impossible to replace. Gary was an extremely popular individual not just on the Squadron, but especially amongst his many friends in the RAF sub-aqua fraternity. Mr Robertson, who represents the Nimrod … An RAF Harrier aircraft followed the Nimrod down and the pilot saw a wing explode, followed a few seconds later by the rest of the aircraft. By 2004 you had to be on top of your budget if you wanted to get ahead. Sergeant Benjamin ‘Tapper’ Knight, 25, from Bridgwater, was a completely professional and incredibly enthusiastic Nimrod MR2 sensor operator who, despite his short tenure in the role, had richly deserved his rapid promotion within his crew. Several hours after takeoff, the 14-member crew paused operations for in-flight refueling, then prepared Whilst the crew were carrying out the fire drill, the No 3 engine fire warning also illuminated. His dry wit, sense of humour and smile were his trademark, and all went towards making him an undoubtedly warm and lovely person. A dedicated husband and family man, he leaves behind his beloved wife Shona and children Bethany and Cameron. 3 November 2010. He joined the Royal Marines in November 2002, completing Recruit Training in June 2003. Flight Sergeant Stephen Beattie, a Weapons Systems Operator, was aged 42 and from Dundee. Military police are investigating two serving RAF officers over their roles in the 2006 Nimrod plane crash. All content is available under the Open Government Licence v3.0, except where otherwise stated, Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance and support, Transparency and freedom of information releases. The papers add: "The defendant owed to the deceased a duty of care and the accident was caused by this breach of that duty of care."[28]. A devoted husband and loving father, he leaves behind his wife Kristina and daughters Sophia and Lauren. They are having to wait far too long to receive answers to many questions. A devoted and committed family man, he leaves behind his wife, Rayna, and daughter, Angela. The aircraft is believed to have suffered a fuel leak during mid-air refuelling while it was monitoring a NATO offensive against Taliban insurgents west of Kandahar. Driving the length of the country to watch his daughters compete was never a problem for him. He will be truly missed. Close Use this image under non-commercial licence . [1][2] At a ceremony held at Woodford airfield in Cheshire, the aircraft was handed over by the deputy managing director of Hawker Siddeley Aviation, Sir Harry Broadhurst. Over the years, Gareth’s cheerful and easy-going nature made him many friends in the maritime fleet and in the wider community. Although outwardly quiet, Al had a real thirst for life. However, Bazalgette admitted: "They should not have been shredded and it was my fault that they were. An exceptional golfer and devoted family man, he will be sorely missed by his young family. Share. There were seven crew members on board. All twelve were from Number 120 Squadron based here at Kinloss. Loss of XV230 on 2 September 2006 1.1 On 2 September 2006, RAF Nimrod XV230 was on a routine mission over Helmand Province in Southern Afghanistan in support of NATO and Afghani ground forces when she suffered a catastrophic mid-air fire, leading to the total loss of the aircraft and the death of all those on board. On behalf of the MoD and the Royal Air Force, I would like again to say sorry to all the families who lost loved ones. A Board of Inquiry has been convened to determine the cause of this tragic loss. [13] The replacement aircraft suffered significant problems during development and construction which resulted in lengthy programme delays and the in-service date slipping nine years from 2003 to 2012. You’ve accepted all cookies. His focus was always to ensure that he carried out his duties in the most professional manner possible. [6] Witnesses included local men Abdul Manan, Afshan Hararoot and Haji Eisamuddin. November 19, 2006. A British Aerospace Nimrod MR.2P plane, serial XV239, was damaged beyond repair in an accident 0,8 km off Toronto, ON, Canada. Nothing I can say or do will bring these men back. On September 2, 2006, RAF Nimrod XV230 suffered a catastrophic mid-air fire, shortly after air-to-air refuelling, on a routine mission over Afghanistan. None of the twelve crew and two other officers on board Royal Air … In April 2009 it was reported that the Defence Minister had "glossed over Nimrod safety fears". The station commander, Group Captain Chris Birks, said: "I am deeply saddened to have to report the deaths of 12 aircrew from RAF Kinloss in a Nimrod accident in Afghanistan yesterday. ", Wing Commander Michael Eagles - then head of air vehicle for the Nimrod, Wing Cdr Eagles was supposed to be in charge of managing production of the safety review. On Tuesday 16 May 1995, a Royal Air Force Nimrod R1 aircraft suffered an in-flight engine fire which led to the aircraft having to ditch in the Moray Firth.This was the first of two Nimrods to be lost in 1995; it was followed by the crash of a Nimrod MR2 in Canada in September. The crash, which occurred during a reconnaissanceflight, was the biggest single loss of life suffered by the British military since the Falklands War. The crew – most of whom were based at RAF Kinloss in Moray, Scotland – died in September 2006 when their 37-year-old Nimrod MR2 exploded moments after mid-air refuelling. He approached his role as a Front Line Aviator with the same passion, enthusiasm and skill as he approached his efforts on the football field. Mr Ainsworth told the Commons the two RAF officers had been moved to staff posts which held no responsibility for safety and the RAF would now consider if any "further action" would be taken against them. accident date: 02-09-2006 type: British Aerospace Nimrod MR.2 registration: XV230 Map. The pilot reported a fire in his bomb-bay. By downloading any images or embedding any media, you agree to the terms and conditions of the IWM Non Commercial Licence, … Several hours after takeoff, the 14-member crew paused operations for in-flight refueling, then prepared to resume its mission. Parents of Nimrod crash victim awarded £200,000 ... along with 13 other service personnel on board the aircraft which was on operations near Kandahar on 2 September in 2006. His professional ability and ever-youthful appearance were the envy of his friends and colleagues. 120 Squadron and to the Royal Air Force and served with distinction throughout numerous Operational Tours around the world. Nimrod. 120 Squadron RAF, based at RAF Kinloss in Scotland and the soldier and marine on board were serving with the Special Reconnaissance Regiment. number two meaning poop. There were failures...[in monitoring the aircraft's safety]...that should, if the information had been correctly recorded and acted upon, have led to the discovery of this design flaw within the Nimrod fleet. We will provide further information as soon as there is more to say. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. The so-called Salmon letters give those who are likely to be criticised by the inquiry the opportunity to respond to the criticism before the report’s publication. The crew – most of whom were based at RAF Kinloss in Moray, Scotland – died in September 2006 when their 37-year-old Nimrod MR2 exploded moments after mid-air refuelling. After a short period of time working at RM Stonehouse, Plymouth, he successfully completed a Signaller Class 3 course enabling him to be employed as a communicator in all parts of the Corps. A British Aerospace Nimrod R.1P plane, serial XW666, was damaged beyond repair in an accident 7,2 km NE off Lossiemouth, United Kingdom. Bazalgette subsequently destroyed the document but later told the coroners inquest that none of the shredded documents were relevant to the loss of XV230. In December 2008 the Defence Secretary John Hutton was served with a writ by relatives of two of 14 men who died. 2001: Used in Balkans blockade. The media are asked to respect the wishes of the families that they are not approached by the media at this difficult time. [14][15] The MR4 replacement aircraft was cancelled entirely following the 2010 Strategic Defence and Security Review.[16]. The main priority now is to provide support for the families of those lost, their friends and colleagues. Chris Hughes (2006-05-09). [89] [10] Assistant deputy coroner for Oxfordshire Andrew Walker added: "This cavalier approach to safety must come to an end. He tried to reach Kandahar air base, taking the aircraft down from 23,000 to 3,000 feet (7,010 to 910 metres) in 90 seconds. I am sorry for the mistakes that have been made and the lives that have been lost as a result of our failure. I have been humbled by the commitment and determination of all of my people to do all that they can for those that have lost loved ones and friends and this will be our sole focus in the coming days. Defence Secretary Des … Always smiling, he brought laughter and joy to all his colleagues and friends. On 28 October, Haddon-Cave presented his report, summarised by the statement: Mr Haddon-Cave condemned the change of organisational culture within the MoD between 1998 and 2006, when financial targets came to distract from safety, quoting a former senior RAF officer who told the inquiry: Mr Haddon-Cave directly criticised 10 individuals in the report - five at the MoD, three at BAE Systems and two at QinetiQ - while throughout the review BAE Systems had been a company "in denial." Sep 2006: 14 die in fire on RAF Nimrod XV230. Crews on the RAF's ageing Nimrod spy planes have reported more than 300 fuel leaks in the two years since the disastrous crash which claimed 14 lives in Afghanistan in September 2006. In his time in the RAF he had served on both the Nimrod R1 and MR2, amassing some 7,000 hours in the air, including various appointments in an instructional role. An RAF Nimrod crash in Afghanistan which killed 14 people was probably caused by a mid-air fuel leak, a Ministry of Defence inquiry has found. The MoD and the Nimrod inquiry team declined to say which senior RAF officers received letters.[26]. Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details. On his return from operations in the Middle East, he was to be awarded the ultimate accolade of appointment to crew captaincy. The airplane operated on a local flight out of Forres-Kinloss RAF Station (FSS). Nimrod XW666 departed on a routine post-servicing airtest. The first tragedy to befall the RAF Nimrod came on 2nd September 1995 in Toronto when XV239 crashed while performing a display at the Canadian Air Tattoo killing all 7 crew members on board. Gary, or ‘Q’ as we all knew him, was in the best sense of the word a ‘character’. His considerable contribution will be sorely missed across the maritime fleet where his friends will hold him affectionately in their memory.