RAF Marham in Norfolk has a new home for its Military Working Dogs (MWDs) after the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) completed a cutting-edge £23 million kennel facility.
Designed to enhance security operations and ensure the welfare of the dogs, this new facility is a major step forward in modernising the RAF’s capabilities.
The new kennel complex, comprising three separate blocks, now offers improved accommodation and training areas for 48 MWDs, including spaces for veterinary care. This development supports the essential role these dogs play in security, detection, and protection at one of the RAF’s key operational stations.
Enhanced Welfare and Operational Readiness
The state-of-the-art kennel facility supports MWDs and their handlers by providing tailored accommodations. The facility includes outdoor exercise areas in each kennel block and delivers comprehensive veterinary care through a dedicated block with isolation kennels.
The RAF’s focus on the dogs’ health and comfort keeps them at peak operational readiness, essential for effective security operations.
RAF Marham’s MWDs are tasked with perimeter security, arms detection, and explosive detection. With the new facility, the dogs can now enjoy better living conditions, helping maintain their physical and mental health, which in turn improves their overall effectiveness.
Features of the Facility:
- Three separate kennel blocks with outdoor exercise spaces
- On-site veterinary suite with isolation kennels
- Offices and relaxation rooms for RAF Police handlers
- Solar panels and underfloor heating for energy efficiency
Group Captain Nick Wigglesworth, Station Commander at RAF Marham, stated:
“This new facility will give critical longevity to the MWD capability, providing a base for the dogs and their handlers that now matches their own exceptional standards, professionalism and commitment.”
Built with Long-Term Sustainability in Mind
In addition to improving security and animal welfare, the kennel complex is equipped with sustainable energy features. The facility uses solar panels, underfloor heating, and modern plant rooms, reducing the environmental impact while providing a comfortable environment for the dogs and their handlers.
The construction of the new kennels was a collaborative effort between the DIO, VIVO Defence Services, and Cambridge-based Coulson Building Group, ensuring that the project met the highest standards in animal welfare and security.
These companies completed the project in two phases, delivering a facility that not only improves living conditions for the dogs but also supports the daily work of the RAF Police.
Statistics for the RAF Marham Kennel Facility
Feature |
Description |
|---|---|
| Total Investment | £23 million |
| Number of Kennels | 48 |
| Energy Features | Solar panels, underfloor heating |
| Veterinary Block | Isolation kennels, treatment rooms |
| Blocks | 3 separate blocks with outdoor exercise areas |
| Completion Time | 2-phase project, completed by VIVO Defence and Coulson Group |
Securing the Future for RAF Marham
As one of the RAF’s primary operational stations, RAF Marham plays a pivotal role in housing the UK’s F-35 Lightning Force, and the MWDs are integral to ensuring the security of this advanced aircraft.
The dogs’ ability to detect threats quickly and accurately makes them indispensable to the station’s layered security approach.
Provost Marshal (RAF) and Commander of the Air Security Force, Group Captain Samantha Bunn, praised the facility, saying:
“This new MWD facility at RAF Marham represents a landmark achievement for the RAF and defence as a whole. It sets a new standard for animal welfare and handler support.”
This investment in both the dogs and their handlers not only improves security but also demonstrates the RAF’s commitment to leading the way in military dog care.
With its new kennel facility, RAF Marham is well-equipped to continue its vital role in UK defence for years to come.
Final Thoughts
The new MWD facility at RAF Marham exemplifies the RAF’s dedication to operational excellence and animal welfare.
This investment improves the working conditions for dogs and handlers alike, ensuring that the station remains secure and its personnel well-supported.
As RAF Marham continues to play a critical role in UK defence, the dogs and their handlers are now upgrading their capabilities to tackle future challenges.
Sources: THX News, Defence & Defence Infrastructure Organisation.
