UK opens new air force police canine hub in Marham

The UK Ministry of Defence has inaugurated a new kennel facility for the Royal Air Force Police's Military Working Dogs (MWDs) in Marham, Norfolk.

This £23 million ($30 million) project includes three blocks designed to accommodate over 40 MWDs. The facility features outdoor training areas, a veterinary clinic, treatment and isolation rooms, as well as offices for RAF Police personnel and dog handlers, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

Additional features of the hub include solar panels, underfloor heating, an access road, parking, cycle storage, plant rooms, and a loading and unloading dock.

The Royal Air Force emphasized that the new center replaces the outdated MWD kennels at Marham, offering an expanded and improved environment for both the dogs and their handlers. The facility's design was developed in collaboration with the British Armed Forces Veterinary Services Training and Advisory Team, ensuring compliance with the 2006 Animal Welfare Act.

The construction was carried out by local contractors Amey and Vivo Defence Services in partnership with Coulsor Building Group based in Cambridge.

Following the opening of the Marham kennel hub, the UK military announced another initiative focused on training and welfare support for MWDs. The government has contracted a canine equipment company from Surrey to provide enhanced training aids, welfare items, and entertainment for over 500 dogs working in the air force, army, guard services, and as Regimental Mascots.

This five-year initiative aims to supply protective gear, everyday items, training tools, and toys to ensure the MWDs remain "stimulated" and "enriched" during their service.