RAF renews aircraft painting contract with Serco
2-year agreement is worth $23 million
Serco has secured a contract extension to continue its expert surface finish support for the Royal Air Force (RAF). The new contract, valued at $23 million, commenced on April 1, 2024, and extends for two years, with an option for an additional year.
This continued collaboration underscores Serco’s commitment to enhancing the RAF’s operational capabilities with its specialised surface finish expertise.
Doug Umbers, Managing Director of Serco’s Defence division, expressed enthusiasm about the extension, stating: “We are delighted to continue delivering this crucial service to the RAF. Our surface finish teams, stationed at RAF bases across the UK, play a key role in maintaining the RAF’s fleet and ensuring its operational readiness.”
Umbers also highlighted the team’s contribution to the recent Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2024, where they celebrated the 50th anniversary of the F-16 Fighting Falcon’s first flight.
“I am particularly proud of the expertise our surface finish teams showcased during the RIAT 2024 celebrations,” he added.
Serco’s surface finish team, renowned for its expertise in military aerospace re-finishing, has been serving the RAF since 2009. Their work has included notable projects such as the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the 100th anniversary of the RAF, and various squadron centenaries.
Recently, Serco’s team at RAF Marham produced and applied a special livery for an RAF F-16 to mark the aircraft’s milestone 50th anniversary.
Andy Donovan of Dynamic Vectors created the livery design, which was showcased at RIAT 2024, where it led the static display of F-16s from around the globe. The livery, crafted using advanced software and printing technology, was meticulously applied to the F-16’s fin, tailplanes, and fuel tanks through vinyl wrapping.
2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the F-16’s inaugural flight. With over 4,600 airframes produced over the past five decades, the F-16 has become one of the most successful combat aircraft ever built.
To commemorate this milestone, RIAT 2024 featured a global tribute to the F-16 in collaboration with Lockheed Martin. Highlights of the event included a static display of F-16s worldwide, including the RAF – and impressive aerial demonstrations showcasing the aircraft’s capabilities.
Featured image: Serco’s team at RAF Marham produced and applied a special livery for an RAF F-16 to mark the aircraft’s milestone 50th anniversary. Credit: Serco
Last Updated on 6 months by News Desk 2
