A SQUADRON operating a new fleet of aircraft at RAF Brize Norton was praised and celebrated by HRH Princess Royal today.

Princess Anne visited the RAF base at around 11am today to mark the official re-formation of the LXX (70) Squadron, after it stood down in 2010.

The squadron is marking a new beginning by becoming the RAF’s first ever frontline unit to operate the A400M Atlas.

LXX Squadron was also presented with a new Standard - a special military flag which marks the trust bestowed on the squadron by the monarch.

The Princess Royal, who is honorary air commander at RAF Brize Norton, said it was a “relief” and a “pleasure” to be able to present LXX with their third Standard.

She said: “This is a significant milestone as the unit re-forms as the first dedicated front line squadron to operate Atlas A400M. The squadron has the honour of being RAF’s first frontline unit to operate Atlas. When it stepped down in 2010 the sadness was tempered with the knowledge that it would one day rise again as the first Atlas squadron.

“Congratulations. You can be justifiably proud. You have a bright and busy future to look forward to. I know you will serve in your usual exemplary manner.”

RAF Brize Norton marked the event with a parade for the Princess, as well as a crowd of supporting family and friends.

The officer commanding LXX Squadron Simon Boyle said he was honoured to have the Princess Royal at the parade.

He said: “We have been working very closely with other squadrons and the Airbus Defence and Space [aircraft builders] to bring the A400M into service.

“We are also trying to create a frontline squadron that will operate overnight. The ceremony represented a formal re-formation, the squadron coming back into being.”

Mayor of Carterton Lynn Little said she thought the parade was magnificent.

“I think the RAF does extremely well and I am proud to be here. The link between Carterton Town Council and the people of the town grows stronger each day. It’s an occasion like this that shows the strength of the friendship we have with RAF Brize Norton.”

The parade came to a close after a flypast from a Spitfire and one of the A400M aircrafts.