AN RAF aircraft hangar built the year that the Second World War broke out has undergone a major renovation.

The warehouse at RAF Brize Norton, first opened in 1939, is one of the original buildings on the site.

And, despite its age, it remains 'a cornerstone of its defence capability'.

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The building, known as Hangar 49, is today used for storing freight which is then deployed around the world in support of RAF exercises and military operations.

Following its 'extensive renovations', it was officially reopened by Station Commander Group Captain Dan James on Friday.

Oxford Mail:

Hangar 49 before its overhaul. Picture: RAF

Speaking at the ceremony he said: "Today’s reopening of Hangar 49 hopefully marks the beginning for a brighter future for air movements at RAF Brize Norton, with Defence Support and Programme Future Airport working hard to bring together automation, digitisation and innovative ways of working to the cargo handling facility.”

Home to Number 1 Air Mobility Wing’s Air Movements Squadron, the refurbishment of Hangar 49 will provide a 'better and safer place of work' for RAF Movements personnel, the air force said, 'ensuring the continued capability for effective and reliable cargo despatch around the globe'.

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The RAF went on: "The successful completion of the project has been based on a Whole Force approach, of Support Services Squadron, Amey, Defence Infrastructure Organisation over a twenty six month period.

"During the renovations, 1 AMW personnel have remained highly flexible throughout, continuing to deliver Defence’s output requirement, from a variety of temporary infrastructure solutions."