The two new targets will significantly enhance Defence flying training for both fixed wing and rotary wing air platforms.
The repurposed vessels, which were transported from the River Crouch in Essex along the coast to Holbeach, in Lincolnshire, were positioned using specialist tug support from the Netherlands.
Made from steel, and adapted specifically for military use, the new targets will play a crucial role in supporting training for a diverse mix of air platforms.
The delivery of the new targets involved a joint effort between the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), Landmarc and construction and marine industry specialists Topbond PLC.
Brigadier Gavin Hatcher, DIO’s Head of the UK Training Estate, said
We are delighted to welcome these new targets to AWR Holbeach. They offer a unique opportunity for Defence to carry out essential training in a challenging yet safe environment.
The continued investment in training enhancements, such as new targets here, new urban skills houses in Catterick and Larkhill, and broader training area improvements in Thetford demonstrates DIO’s contribution to ensuring that Defence is able to train and be operationally ready to deploy at a moment’s notice.
Target 6 South, an existing target, located within the Holbeach range area (Landmarc 2026)
Commander Airbases, Air Commodore Simon Blackwell, said
The new targets at AWR Holbeach will significantly enhance Defence aircrew training and ensure that we remain operationally Ready to Fly, Fight and Win.
Against the backdrop of current global volatility, the importance of these targets to maintain ready access to realistic training is clear, enabling our combat aircrew to maintain their skills and readiness to respond to any demand.
Tom Davidson, from Landmarc, said
The successful delivery and safe installation of these new targets was a challenge. The project required detailed planning and coordination between multiple organisations, all while managing ecological requirements and working around weather and tidal conditions.
We are delighted to have been able to support the delivery of this project, which enhances Defence training capability but also demonstrates how complex infrastructure projects can be delivered, while carefully considering environmental factors. It is a strong example of what can be achieved when organisations work together towards a common goal.
Landmarc employees conducting a routine inspection on Target 5, with the newly installed target visible in the background (Landmarc 2026)
Holbeach AWR is an MOD-owned site that is used by Defence aircraft to conduct live and inert weapons training, including pre-deployment preparation. Due to its location and its historical and current use by military aircraft, unexploded ordnance often gets stuck in the mud and marshes and sinks, so is not always visible. The public is asked not to touch anything they see or find and only access the Range when and where it is safe to do so, in accordance with the byelaws.
When the Range is open, visitors are asked to stick to the designated paths and not to enter the area if the red flags are flying or red lamps are lit.
To offset the installation at Holbeach, DIO has invested in Biodiversity Net Gain Credits to support the development of grassland, woodland, and ponds at the Heacham Habitat Bank in west Norfolk, an area thriving with native flower species.
