King presents Standard to 42 (Torpedo Bomber) Squadron at RAF Lossiemouth

King Charles has presented 42 (Torpedo Bomber0 Squadron with a new Standard during a parade at RAF Lossiemouth.

"Your squadron's history is one of distinction, of which you should be rightly proud," the King said at the stand-up parade at the Scottish air base.

The squadron was originally formed in 1916 and reformed in 1936 to operate Bristol Beauforts, Blenheims and Hurricanes during the Second World War.

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The squadron was disbanded in 2011, but reformed in 2023 as the combined Operation Conversion Unit for aircrew and engineers on the P-8A Poseidon fleet based at RAF Lossiemouth and the E-7 Wedgetails that are due to arrive.

"It gives me the greatest possible pleasure to be here with you all today to mark the standing up of 42 (Torpedo Bomber Squadron) and to present you with your new Standard," King Charles said. 

He recalled his personal connection to RAF Lossiemouth, saying that his old school – Gordonstoun – is situated at the end of the runway. 

"In the 1960s, it was the Royal Navy's Buccaneer aircraft that took off and landed over us and, as part of the Cadet Corps, we regularly used to train or be trained by personnel on the station," the King said. 

The standard shows the unit's battle honours, including campaigns from both World Wars, the Falklands War and the first Gulf War in 1991.

Delving into the squadron's illustrious history, the King said: "Your torpedo bombing pedigree was forged with the wood and dope biplane Vickers Vilderbeest and Bristol Beaufort here, over home waters.

"And with just a week until VJ Day, it is a fitting moment to recall that your aviators flew throughout the Burma Campaign in their Blenheim Bombers and Republic Thunderbolts."

During his visit the King was given a tour of a P-8A Poseidon, the maritime patrol aircraft that protects the UK's northern airspace and coastal waters. 

The Poseidon aircraft conducts anti-submarine warfare, surveillance and search and rescue missions from the Highlands. 

King Charles also met some of the personnel and their families, who live on or near RAF Lossiemouth.

He offered his heartfelt thanks to the families on behalf of the nation, saying it was "the sacrifices you make and the strength you provide".