On 25 October 2025, Squadron Leader Mark “Suggs” Sugden MBE formally handed over command of the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) to his successor, Squadron Leader Paul “Ernie” Wise. Wise will lead the Flight through October 2028. Sugden joined the BBMF in late 2017, preselected to eventually assume command. Between 2018 and 2021, he flew four display seasons as a volunteer fighter pilot while simultaneously serving as a Eurofighter Typhoon pilot and instructor. The BBMF’s established progression system ensures that each incoming Officer Commanding (OC) acquires the operational and instructional experience required to oversee training, conduct air tests, and manage the Flight’s day-to-day operations—typically gained during four years as a volunteer pilot.
Sugden assumed command in October 2021 for what was intended to be a standard three-year tour. However, the fatal accident involving Spitfire MK356 in May 2024, which claimed the life of Squadron Leader Mark Long—who was due to become the next OC BBMF—left a significant gap in the Flight’s succession plan. Sugden volunteered to remain in the role for an additional year, extending his tenure to four years during an exceptionally challenging period. His leadership proved pivotal in rebuilding morale and fostering unity following the tragedy. His contributions were recognized with the award of an MBE in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours List.
Although retiring from full-time RAF service, Sugden will continue flying with the BBMF as a part-time volunteer reservist during the 2026 display season, allowing the Flight to retain his extensive experience while newer pilots continue to build theirs. Squadron Leader Paul “Ernie” Wise, the newly appointed OC BBMF for the 2026–2028 seasons, is a BBMF “Bomber” pilot—marking the first time in 30 years that the Flight has been commanded by a bomber rather than a fighter pilot. Wise began flying the Dakota with the BBMF in 2017, later progressing to Lancaster co-pilot and, in 2022, becoming one of the Flight’s two Lancaster captains. He also serves as a Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) on both aircraft and was recategorized as an A1 (exceptional) QFI on the Lancaster in December 2024.
In a message published in the BBMF Members’ Club 2025 Autumn Journal, Wise reflected on the significance of his appointment: “When I was invited to succeed Suggs as OC BBMF, it was a deeply bittersweet decision. The BBMF is in my blood, and I am incredibly passionate about what the Flight represents and the exceptional professionalism demonstrated year after year. However, I was acutely aware of whose tenure this command should have been. I only wish the circumstances were different. Mark Long and I shared many conversations about his aspirations for the BBMF, and I make this promise to him: I will give my absolute best.”
The formal handover took place at the BBMF End of Season Guest Night on 25 October at the Petwood Hotel. During the ceremony, Wise expressed gratitude for Sugden’s leadership and the strong condition of the team he now inherits. “The team is in outstanding condition thanks to his efforts,” he said. “I look forward to creating many more cherished memories as we continue to showcase the BBMF at its very best.” The RAF has already designated the following OC BBMF: Squadron Leader Al Luckins, a BBMF fighter pilot who has completed a full display season with the Flight. He will assume command in October 2028.
