CWO Jacob Farrell of Calday Grange CCF recently had the prestigious opportunity to take part in the International Air Cadet Exchange (IACE) in Germany.
The exchange brought together cadets from across the world, including representatives from New Zealand and Tunisia, as well as fellow cadets from across the United Kingdom. Jacob described the experience as “the pinnacle of my career within the CCF and RAF Air Cadets”.
During the visit, Jacob gained a valuable insight into Germany’s military and civilian aerospace industries. The programme included visits to Luftwaffe Air Transport Wing 62, the Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation and Lufthansa Technik Defence.
One of Jacob’s personal highlights was visiting Tactical Air Force Wing 31 at Nörvenich Air Base. The group had the rare opportunity to watch the start-up and take-off of a Eurofighter Typhoon at close range, before touring the simulation facilities used by aircrew on the base.
At Lufthansa Technik in Hamburg, Jacob learned about the organisation’s work converting aircraft for defence purposes. The cadets spoke with a range of industry professionals and viewed several aircraft from the German presidential fleet. The scale of the facilities—and their ability to accommodate numerous wide-body aircraft in one location—was particularly impressive.
The exchange also included a day of gliding near Hamburg. Despite initially poor weather, every participant was able to take to the air, with some experiencing their first-ever glider flight. The day also provided an opportunity to learn more about the operation of an active airfield and speak with its welcoming and knowledgeable staff.
Alongside the aviation programme, the cadets explored several German cities, including Frankfurt, Cologne, Hamburg and Berlin. In the capital, Jacob visited iconic landmarks such as the Reichstag Building, the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie, gaining a deeper appreciation of Germany’s rich history.
Reflecting on the exchange, Jacob said:
“IACE Germany has been an utterly incredible and unforgettable experience. I have made countless new lifelong friends and gained a deeper understanding of the world of aviation.”
This was a remarkable opportunity and an outstanding achievement. Congratulations to Jacob for representing Calday Grange Grammar School, the Combined Cadet Force and the RAF Air Cadets with such distinction.
