Gurkha Logistic Regiment tours ExxonMobil’s Fawley complex

The British Army’s 10 Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (QOGLR), known for its Petroleum Troop of the Fuel and General Transport Squadron, recently toured ExxonMobil Fawley’s Petrochemical Complex.

This visit aimed to enhance their knowledge and expertise.

10 QOGLR, based at Gale Barracks in Aldershot, specialises in setting up temporary fuel installations, maintaining fuel infrastructure, and ensuring fuel quality.

As part of their training, the regiment’s Bulk Fuel Installation/Petroleum troops manage the quality control and storage of large quantities of petroleum.

Led by Captain Oliver Dyer of the Royal Logistic Corps (RLC), the visit included petroleum operators and drivers from both 10 QOGLR and the 27th Regiment RLC.

The team gained insights into the various end products the British Army relies on and the site’s transportation, handling, and storage procedures.

The tour covered health and safety protocols, a full-day exploration of the 3,250-acre complex, and detailed explanations of crude oil components.

Highlights included observing fuel offloading at the Fawley Marine Terminal, a tour of the distillation towers, and an overview of the new £800m low-sulphur diesel and hydrogen plant.

The regiment also learned about ExxonMobil’s 700km pipeline system, providing engineers with valuable knowledge on large-scale fuel movement.

Captain Dyer said: “Thank you, ExxonMobil Fawley, for organising this insightful visit. By choosing the UK’s largest integrated petrochemical complex, the regiment were able to gain invaluable insights into ExxonMobil’s advanced refinery operations, distribution infrastructure, and safety regimes.

“Our Petroleum Operators and Drivers were particularly impressed with ExxonMobil’s approach and processes. These insights into efficient work layouts and risk management are invaluable for enhancing our military skills and drills. Additionally, observing modern pipeline use for efficient fuel transport has provided us with valuable lessons for addressing logistical challenges, both current and future.”

A ceremonial handover of plaques took place between Captain Dyer and Fawley Site Manager, Nick Bone. Fawley received a plaque of the QOGLR regimental cap badge, while 10 QOGLR was given an artistic illustration of the Fawley complex.

Pam Tucker, Community Affairs Advisor with ExxonMobil and a former Corporal in the RLC, organised the tour. She said: “I was extremely pleased to support this opportunity to the British Army, having served 12 years myself. Opportunities like this are rare, and we knew it would greatly benefit the soldiers by enhancing their professional development within their trade group.

“It was a memorable occasion where the experts in military fuel logistics could learn from our integrated fuel operations.”