The first of a new generation of submarine-hunting spy planes in the north-east has been celebrated in the Scottish Parliament.
The P-8 Poseidon aircraft, which has been christened the Pride of Moray, has already made its inaugural training flight with air crews currently based in the US.
Construction is currently underway at RAF Lossiemouth to build the massive hangar which will accommodate the personnel and planes.
And now, Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston has lodged a motion at the Scottish Parliament to welcome the choice of name of the aircraft due to the region’s historic military links.
He said: “People in Moray take great pride in the county’s longstanding association with the RAF.
“That the first of the new aircraft operating out of Lossiemouth will be named Pride of Moray reflects that and I’m pleased to be able to mark it with a motion to the Scottish Parliament.
“The presence of the P-8s represents a huge financial investment in Moray, bringing with it major benefits for local suppliers and the wider local economy.
“There are other benefits too. I know NHS Grampian is hoping to recruit staff for Dr Gray’s and other local facilities from members of the families of those coming to Moray to service the fleet of aircraft.”
Pride of Moray will be based at RAF Lossiemouth from next year and will eventually be part of a fleet of nine aircraft dedicated to maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface ship warfare.