THE Territorial Army will be expanding its operations when a new Swindon-based unit, 280 Movement Control Squadron, is officially launched today.

280 Squadron is unique as it is the only Regional TA Movement Control unit in the British Army.

Based at Yeomanry House, Swindon’s TA Centre, the unit forms part of 162 Movement Control Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps, and will draw the bulk of recruits from Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.

The TA already has a strong presence in Swindon, with two combat units – A Squadron, The Royal Yeomanry and a detachment of 7th Battalion, The Rifles– also based at Yeomanry House.

Reservists from 280 will offer very different skills in their role as logistic specialists. They work alongside the regular Army in planning, directing, controlling and monitoring the movement of personnel, vehicles and equipment to operations and exercises all over the world, including Afghanistan and Iraq.

“In other words, we ensure that everything gets to the right place, at the right time and in the right condition,” said Major Ian Keenan BEM, the Officer Commanding.

“Our training includes military skills and leadership training. But it’s not all about soldiering – we enjoy an active sporting and social life, too, including activities such as skiing in the Austrian mountains or hill walking in the French Pyrenees.

“For those who take up the challenge of joining the Territorial Army, there is, of course, the bonus of being paid while on duty.

“At a time when Swindon has been particularly hard hit by the recession, this may be significant to people who fancy Army life but are unable to make a full-time commitment.” Brigadier Tony Dalby-Welsh, of Wessex Reserve Forces and Cadets Association, welcomed the launch of 280 MC Squadron.

He said: “Its addition to TA resources in the south west is vital at a time when there is an exceptionally heavy demand on the skills and expertise of our reservists, many of whom are currently mobilised to Afghanistan and Iraq.”

280 Squadron will be recruiting men and women from all walks of life, including ex-service personnel.

Some will train as movement operators. There are as many as 15 different trades within the Royal logistic Corps TA, ranging from drivers and chefs to human resources specialists and marine engineers.

Guests attending today’s launch include Brigadier Chris Murray, director of the Royal Logistic Corps; and Brigadier Steve Hodder, Commander, 43 (Wessex) Brigade.