Oxford University Air Squadron

Recently an OUAS Student attended the International Forum for Peace, Security and Prosperity on Exercise Olive Torch in Palermo, Sicily along with 14 other UAS students from across the UK to represent the UAS along with delegates from 28 other nations.

The four day conference involved workshops, academic panels and lectures to explore different countries ways of developing adaptable and future ready forces. The topics ranged from emotional intelligence as a military leader, resilience and workshops on conflict deescalation.

The students were also asked before the conference to prepare academic posters on one of the key themes of the forum in teams.

OUAS completed a challenging Easter Camp in the Brecon Beacons.

The week-long camp including hiking a total of 85Km over several Beacon summits including Pen y Fan and Garreg Lwyd. They also visited the Garreg Goch crash site where a stand was conducted on the significance of the crash site.

The camp concluded with a session of rock-climbing including learning how to safely belay.

OUAS recently sent one member to take part in Exercise Nordic Challenge 2026 in Bardufoss, Norway, joining RAF colleagues from across the service with a wide range of Nordic skiing experience. Over the course of the week, they undertook intensive training in both classic and skate skiing techniques, developing skills in a challenging but rewarding environment.

The exercise culminated in a 5km race, where we achieved an excellent third place in the women’s category. Alongside the training, the week offered a strong social element, with activities including a pub quiz, barbecue, and regular sauna sessions after time on the trails.

Standout moments included witnessing the Northern Lights and supporting elite athletes during their 35km race. The exercise also provided a valuable opportunity to connect with students from other UASs and personnel from across the RAF.

A huge thank you to the organisers and coaches for delivering an outstanding and memorable experience.

OUAS recently held its Annual Formal Visit, marking an important point in the Squadron calendar.

The day provided an opportunity to reflect on the past year and present the breadth of Squadron activity, from daily routines and flying training through to FD trips and wider development opportunities. A brief was delivered by members of the Senior Leadership Team, highlighting progress and key areas of focus.

It also gave students the chance to discuss their experiences directly and contribute ideas on how the OUAS experience can continue to be developed across University Air Squadrons.

Thank you to all staff and students who contributed to the day and ensured it ran smoothly and to Commandant 6FTS for attending.

OUAS set out to complete some stern challenges this year.

Bath Half – Alzheimer’s Society: £1,079
Reading Half – RAF Benevolent Fund: £120
Hastings Half – Amnesty International: £1,102
Teddy Hall Race – another one in the books for OUAS

Big well done to the runners and a massive thank you to the donators - On behalf of the runners it genuinely makes every mile worth it.

Congratulations to Off Cdt Ashford for completing his first solo sortie.

Hats off to you!

We are back from EX Alpine Edge Serial 1!

A full week of skiing, progression, and teamwork as OUAS Students smashed Ski Foundation 1 & 2 alongside , and .

Mountains, Mates and Memories made. ⛷️

2026 began with a gong for one OUAS Officer Cadet at the Ski Champs in Saalbach-Hinterglemm in Austria.

At the first attempt OUAS won individual Gold in Women's Open Giant Slalom event, beating regular RAF competitors.

An amazing achievement well done !

Many thanks to for the event!

Earlier this year, OUAS celebrated its 100th Birthday with their Hanger Bash kindly hosted by RAF Benson. The days event included a live band, air and static display and many lasting memories. We were treated to a private display from the  and a T6 Harvard from . A massive thanks to all who attended, celebrated with us, helped set it up and those who planned it. It was certainly one for the memory bank.