RAF Akrotiri's Runway Gets A Facelift

British jets have been flying round-the-clock missions against the so-called Islamic State.

But behind-the-scenes at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, a massive rebuilding project has been taking place to keep the base operational. 

Now, the official opening of its newly-renovated £46 million runway has taken place.

It comes after 21 months of work, during which time the RAF continued to fly missions against IS.

Minister for the Armed Forces Mike Penning said:

"This project has taken a tired and battered runway and transformed it into a modern, safe, 21st Century facility, capable of supporting operations for the next 20 years and beyond."

This has been a unique and remarkable achievement. RAF Akrotiri is not just a refuelling spot or training base.

"This airfield matters. It has been at the forefront of supporting our most important military operations over the last decade and more, including the current campaign against Daesh."

The project, which saw 55,000m3 of earth excavated and 44,000m3 of high-quality concrete laid, was led by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO).

DIO's Chief Executive Graham Dalton said:

"I am delighted that the upgrade to the runway at RAF Akrotiri is complete. This is a crucial asset for Defence and this project has been a huge success. DIO has worked with our customers and contractors to successfully carry out this critical work while minimising the impact on operations."

In 2019, British Forces Cyprus will become the largest permanent joint operating base and permanent deployment of British troops overseas.

The MoD confirmed in 2015 that the final British Army units will return to the UK from Germany in 2019 under rebasing plans.