Senior UK commander highlights Rock’s military role

The Chief of Staff Joint Forces Command, Rear Admiral Tony Radakin, yesterday highlighted Gibraltar’s important strategic role during his first visit to the Rock since assuming the post last January.

As part of his familiarisation tour, Rear Admiral Radakin visited various elements of Command including RAF Gibraltar, the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, Royal Navy Gibraltar Squadron and the Gibraltar Defence Police.

“The visit has given me the opportunity to meet some of the men and women serving within British Forces Gibraltar and I am particularly impressed by the strong working relationship between the military and civilian workforce, as well as the support of the Government of Gibraltar, who deliver winning effect to demonstrate sovereignty and maintain this important strategic base,” he said.

Rear Admiral Radakin holds one of the most senior posts within the British military hierarchy.

He is part of the senior team at the head of a command providing the foundation and supporting framework for successful operations, ensuring joint capabilities such as medical services, training, intelligence, information systems and cyber-operations are developed and managed.

Joint Forces Command also provides the command and control for overseas defence operations.

As part of the visit, Rear Admiral Radakin also patrolled British Gibraltar territorial waters on board HMS Sabre, where he was briefed by Commodore Ian McGhie, the Commander British Forces, and Gibraltar Squadron personnel.

Rear Admiral Radakin also met with the Governor, Lieutenant General Edward Davis, and paid a courtesy call on the Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo.