News

August 7th 2024

The IACE programme is a two-week exchange that allows international Air Cadets to see a variety of areas around the UK, getting an insight into ‘how the other half live’.

Whilst Cadets from an array of countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia and Sweden, were visiting the UK, part of their programme was to visit a Cadet Unit. This was an excellent opportunity for overseas Cadets to meet their UK peers.

126 (City of Derby)  Squadron were once more given the honour to host the overseas cadets, supported by  air cadets and adult volunteers from Swadlincote, Long Eaton and Ilkeston.

The evening included a wide selection of activities including drill, leadership tasks, flight simulators, archery and laser clay shooting.

Squadron Leader Rob Moore, Officer Commanding 126 (City of Derby) Squadron, said: “The event was a huge success. Having the honour to host the International Cadets during the Exchange for a second year running is something I am proud of.

“Everyone had a great evening, with lots of activities running to give a taste of what the Air Cadets can do here in the UK. Some highlights from the night were the American and Canadian’s showcasing their version of foot drill, the Dutch flexing their skills on the archery and the Australians experiencing the world of space through virtual reality headsets.

“It was also a delight to see ‘international trade’ taking place amicably, through the swapping of local and national memorabilia and merchandise.  I believe everyone went home having had a unforgettable experience here at the 126 Squadron HQ.

“Thank you to all of the Cadet Force Adult Volunteers and Cadets from 126 Squadron and our neighbouring units who were instrumental in putting on a good show and keeping our International visitors entertained.”

Organiser Wing Commander Alyn Thompson MBE, the RAF Air Cadets International Exchange Project Officer,  added: “The Exchange went really well, with the overseas Cadets making visits that ranged from RAF stations to Buckingham Palace and the Space Centre to the Tower of London, also fitting in flying time in the Air Cadets gliders and Tutor light aircraft as well as visiting the Royal International Air Tattoo.

“The 47 visiting Cadets from 6 countries were given a full aviation, cultural and social experience, taking home some excellent memories of their visit to the UK.”