Being ‘The Boss’

Tornado Tales

AFM continues its series of features celebrating the career of the everpopular Tornado GR as it nears the end of its RAF service. In this issue, Jamie Hunter meets Air Commodore Ian Gale, who talks about his time leading No 31 Squadron ‘Goldstars’.

This image of two No 31 Squadron Tornado GR4s was taken in 2009 and illustrates the range of weapons the type could carry, including MBDA Brimstone and Raytheon Paveway IV.
All photos Jamie Hunter unless stated
Air Commodore Ian Gale back when he was a wing commander at No 31 Squadron.

From the time the very first Tornado GR1 entered Royal Air Force frontline service in 1982, a succession of wing commanders has guided each and every Tornado squadron through a remarkable period of service. Commanding a fighter squadron surely ranks as the pinnacle of a career for many who have served in the military.

Become a Premium Member to Read More

This is a premium article and requires an active Key.Aero subscription to view.

I’m an existing member, sign me in!

I don’t have a subscription…

Enjoy the following subscriber only benefits:

  • Unlimited access to all KeyAero content
  • Exclusive in-depth articles and analysis, videos, quizzes added daily
  • A fully searchable archive – boasting hundreds of thousands of pieces of quality aviation content
  • Access to read all our leading aviation magazines online - meaning you can enjoy the likes of FlyPast, Aeroplane Monthly, AirForces Monthly, Combat Aircraft, Aviation News, Airports of the World, PC Pilot and Airliner World - as soon as they leave the editor’s desk.
  • Access on any device- anywhere, anytime
  • Choose from our offers below