Tornados blow into Moray
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
The following story appeared in The Northern Scot 30 years ago this week:
They flew in at 400mph in a tight 'diamond nine' formation.
These winged creatures belonged to 12 Squadron, the first active Tornado unit to take up residence at RAF Lossiemouth, in a move which signals the expansion of the Moray base's operations.
They join the Tornados of training unit XV(R) Squadron already stationed at Lossiemouth.
A further Tornado outfit, the 617 'Dambusters' Squadron arrives in May.
With the introduction of the aircraft, in place of the phased-out Buccaneers, the base will grow from 1900 personnel to around 2300, and its future is secure.
The Tornados flew in from RAF Marham in Norfolk.
They were welcomed to RAF Lossiemouth by Corporal John 'Jock' Clifford who played 'Scotland the Brave' on the pipes
Cpl Clifford nearly burst his lungs as he summoned up enough volume to be heard over the sound of their engines.
The RAF have already admitted that the Tornado is the loudest aircraft in service.
A noise survey on their impact on the area has already been announced, and will be carried out later this year.
