Defence Infrastructure Organisation launches £28 million airfield upgrade project at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire to strengthen UK airspace protection

A £28 million refurbishment of RAF Coningsby’s airfield in Lincolnshire is now officially under way, aimed at improving the station’s air operating surfaces, taxiways, and apron areas.

The project is being delivered by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), with construction led by VolkerFitzpatrick and technical oversight provided by AECOM.

Supporting the Nation’s Quick Reaction Alert

RAF Coningsby plays a critical role in defending UK airspace as one of two Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) stations.

Pilots and ground personnel are on 24-hour standby, ready to launch Typhoon jets at a moment’s notice.

This means construction work must be carefully scheduled to avoid disrupting the station’s operational readiness.

The station hosts two frontline squadrons, 3 (Fighter) Squadron and XI (Fighter) Squadron, as well as 29 Squadron, which trains new Typhoon pilots.

Ensuring that these squadrons remain fully operational while work progresses is a key priority for the project team.

Planned Improvements and Strategic Importance

The refurbishment will focus on upgrading taxiways, aprons, and other airfield infrastructure to enhance efficiency and safety for both daily operations and emergency launches.

The improvements will also support long-term operational resilience, ensuring RAF Coningsby can maintain its high tempo of operations well into the future.

Dan Wilmott, Project Manager at DIO, emphasized the careful coordination involved: “RAF Coningsby’s role in defending UK airspace never stops, so delivering these improvements while maintaining the constant readiness of the Quick Reaction Alert has required careful planning.

Suggested Readings (News continues below)

BUA Foods Plc appoints Khalifa Rabiu as Chief Officer to strengthen global procurement and strategic operations in Nigeria

Margot Robbie Stuns Fans at Sydney State Theatre Premiere of Wuthering Heights as She Arrives in Flowing Ivory Gown on Home Soil

Senior Detective Sues Kent Police Chief Constable for £100,000 After Trainee Police Dog Bites Her on Face at Home

Japaul Gold and Ventures Plc Appoints Abubakar Lawal as Non Executive Director to Strengthen Corporate Governance and Mining Expansion in Lagos Nigeria

We’re proud to be supporting the personnel at RAF Coningsby with upgraded facilities that will serve the station for years to come.”

Industry Collaboration for a Complex Task

VolkerFitzpatrick and AECOM are working closely with the RAF and DIO to manage the project without interrupting airfield operations.

Keith Maplethorpe, Operations Director at VolkerFitzpatrick, said: “We are proud to play a key role in delivering these vital upgrades at RAF Coningsby.

This investment strengthens one of the UK’s most strategically important air stations, ensuring that its teams can continue to protect our airspace around the clock.”

Group Captain Andy Hampshire, Station Commander, highlighted the importance of seamless execution: “Defence of the nation is the RAF’s highest priority.

QRA is at the very forefront of that task, so it’s vitally important that there is no hindrance caused by this refurbishment.

I’m very grateful to Defence colleagues and industry partners for the seamless way this project has been undertaken.”

Timeline and Future Benefits

The airfield upgrade is scheduled for completion in October 2026.

Once finished, the refurbished facilities will support safer, more efficient operations for Typhoon squadrons and trainees alike, ensuring that RAF Coningsby remains at the forefront of UK air defence.

What’s Next?

Over the next several months, construction teams will continue work in carefully coordinated phases to avoid disrupting the station’s 24-hour alert operations.

The DIO and RAF will provide periodic updates on progress, with an expected completion date in October 2026.

Once completed, the airfield will benefit from modernised surfaces, enhanced operational safety, and improved support for Typhoon pilots on duty.

Summary

A £28 million airfield upgrade at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire is underway, focusing on taxiways, aprons, and other critical surfaces.

The work, led by VolkerFitzpatrick with technical oversight from AECOM, is being carefully coordinated to maintain the station’s Quick Reaction Alert readiness.

RAF Coningsby hosts frontline Typhoon squadrons and a training squadron, making operational continuity essential.

The project is set for completion in October 2026, promising long-term improvements in safety, efficiency, and airspace defence capabilities.