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From Cold War Warrior to Chief of the Air Staff: The Extraordinary Journey of Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston

Eli Blair

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Published in Bolts From The Blue: From Cold War Warrior To Chief Of The Air Staff

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Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston, the current Chief of the Air Staff, is a man who has dedicated his life to serving his country. His journey from a young pilot during the Cold War to the head of the Royal Air Force is a story of hard work, determination, and unwavering commitment.

Early Life and Career

Michael John Wigston was born in 1964 in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. He joined the Royal Air Force in 1984 and trained as a pilot. After completing his training, he was posted to the 229 OCU (Operational Conversion Unit) at RAF Chivenor, Devon, to fly the Harrier GR5.

Bolts from the Blue: From Cold War Warrior to Chief of the Air Staff

by Guy Sajer

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During the Cold War, Wigston flew Harriers on patrol over the North Sea, protecting the UK from potential Soviet aggression. He also deployed to the Gulf during the Gulf War in 1991, flying Harriers in combat operations against Iraqi forces.

Command and Staff Appointments

After the Gulf War, Wigston held a variety of command and staff appointments. He commanded the Harrier GR7 force at RAF Wittering, Cambridgeshire, from 1995 to 1997. He was then appointed as the Chief of Staff for Operations at RAF Strike Command, where he was responsible for planning and executing air operations.

In 2003, Wigston was promoted to Air Commodore and appointed as the Station Commander of RAF Marham, Norfolk. During his time as Station Commander, he oversaw the of the new Eurofighter Typhoon jet into service with the RAF.

Senior Appointments

In 2007, Wigston was promoted to Air Vice-Marshal and appointed as the Assistant Chief of the Air Staff for Operations. In this role, he was responsible for the day-to-day running of the RAF's operations.

In 2011, Wigston was promoted to Air Marshal and appointed as the Deputy Commander of the Allied Air Command at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. In this role, he was responsible for the air defence of NATO's southern flank.

In 2014, Wigston was promoted to Air Chief Marshal and appointed as the Chief of the Air Staff. As the head of the RAF, he is responsible for the overall command and control of the RAF, including its personnel, aircraft, and equipment.

Leadership and Legacy

Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston is a highly respected and experienced military leader. He has served his country with distinction for over three decades, and his leadership has been instrumental in shaping the RAF into the world-class force it is today.

Wigston is known for his strong leadership skills, his commitment to his personnel, and his unwavering focus on mission success. He is also a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion within the RAF.

Under Wigston's leadership, the RAF has undergone a significant modernization program. The RAF has acquired new aircraft, such as the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet, and has invested in new technologies, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The RAF has also played a vital role in the fight against terrorism, and has deployed to a number of countries to conduct operations against ISIS. The RAF has also provided humanitarian assistance to countries affected by natural disasters.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston is a true pioneer who has dedicated his life to serving his country. He is a role model for all who aspire to lead, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.