RAF LEEMING, NORTH YORKSHIRE

RAF Leeming, a vital military base in North Yorkshire, plays a key role in supporting UK and overseas Expeditionary Air Operations. Home to specialist squadrons and communications units, the station requires cutting-edge infrastructure to maintain security and operational efficiency. As part of ongoing improvements, VIVO Facilities Management commissioned a major upgrade to the Intruder Detection System (IDS) and Infra Data Cable (Golden Ring) networks—both ageing and beginning to fail.

Following a competitive tender, CU Phosco was awarded the project to upgrade and expand the below-ground fibre optic network at RAF Leeming.

CU Phosco was responsible for installing and commissioning a new below-ground infrastructure to support the IDS and Golden Ring networks. The project required:

• 1525m of trenching & 46,000m of fibre optic cable for the Intruder Detection System (IDS)
• 2844m of trenching & 18,000m of fibre optic cable for the Golden Ring
• Installation of 100 security chambers to protect critical network points
• Installation of 33 large stainless steel feeder pillars to house and protect electrical and fibre connections

By integrating advanced fibre optic technology within the existing Defence Digital cable duct system, CU Phosco adapted and extended the network to meet VIVO's requirements while ensuring minimal disruption to RAF Leeming's operations.

The project was completed in collaboration with specialist fibre subcontractor Advantex, whose expertise in fibre optic systems was crucial in ensuring seamless connectivity and long-term reliability.

Andy Kay, Project Manager at CU Phosco, commented:

"This project demonstrates our ability to deliver high-spec infrastructure solutions beyond lighting. From trenching and civils work to electrical installations and fibre optic integration, our team worked closely with VIVO and Advantex to ensure a seamless upgrade. RAF Leeming relies on secure and reliable communications, and we're proud to have contributed to its ongoing operational excellence."

The successful completion of the IDS and Golden Ring upgrade at RAF Leeming has significantly enhanced the base's security, connectivity, and operational efficiency. The modernised fibre optic network ensures faster, more reliable communication, while the upgraded Intruder Detection System strengthens security.

CU Phosco has future-proofed RAF Leeming's data and security networks by replacing ageing infrastructure with state-of-the-art fibre optic and electrical systems. The new stainless steel feeder pillars provide robust and weather-resistant housing for electrical and fibre connections, reducing long-term maintenance requirements.

Steven King, VIVO Area Project Lead, commented:

“I personally found CU Phosco a joy to work alongside. Nothing is ever an issue, always looking for solutions to problems encountered. Cannot rate Andy Kay highly enough. His leadership skills, and technical knowledge were invaluable to me and the client. CU Phosco have delivered numerous projects across the estate, and we VIVO look forward to continuing the close working relationship.”