| Flight Sergeant Stephen Beattie (42), a weapons systems operator with 120 Squadron, based at RAF Kinloss, was one of 12 aircrew who died when their Nimrod MR2 came down 12 miles west of Kandahar on Saturday afternoon.
The reconnaissance aircraft crashed after a devastating technical fault caused a fire to develop in-flight.
Mayday calls were made by the plane’s crew in the moments before impact, but nothing could be done and they perished along with two other armed forces personnel who were on board.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the crew’s base at RAF Kinloss and Station Commander Group Captain Chris Birks said the tight-knit community was in mourning.
The Ministry of Defence has paid tribute to Flight Sergeant Beattie — a married father-of-two who lived in Forres.
The MoD said, “Flight Sergeant Stephen Beattie, a weapons systems operator, was aged 42 and from Dundee.
“Steve was fiercely committed to 120 Squadron and to the Royal Air Force and served with distinction throughout numerous operational tours around the world.
“A thoroughly courageous and completely professional Nimrod MR2 aviator, he was highly respected and liked by all who flew and served with him — he had a true heart of gold.
“With a strong sense of humour, he could always raise the spirits and morale of his colleagues.
“A dedicated husband and family man, he leaves behind his beloved wife Shona and children Bethany and Cameron.”
The dead men’s families have been appointed liaison officers who have been helping to support them through their bereavement. |
