Sun, Sea and Spanners

JMETS

Sun, Sea and Spanners

When comparing the overseas postings available to REME personnel, the Joint Mechanical Engineering and Transport Squadron (JMETS) in Cyprus is one of the more unusual. Along with the obvious (sunshine and beaches), the Joint Workshop offers the chance to work alongside the RAF and other Army Cap Badges. This month, REME Officers and Soldiers share their experiences of working there, in what has turned out to be an interesting year.

RiB (1 PWRR LAD) Art Veh (OR8) Armr (OR7) VM (OR6) VM (OR6) VM (OR6) VM (OR6) VM CL1 (OR3) VM CL1/2 (OR3) VM CL1/2 (OR3) Armr CL1/2 (OR3) VM CL2 (OR2) Armr CL2 (OR2)

REME MANNING CYPRUS BFC HQ SO3 ES (L) (OF2) ASM ES (L) (OR9) SNCO ES (L) (OR7) Armourer SO3 ES (L) (OF2) SO3 ES (L) (OF2) Recovery RM CL1 (OR7) RM (OR4) RM CL1/2 (OR3) RM CL2 (OR2) CQMS/TQMS STMN CL1 (OR7) STMN CL1 (OR4)

JMETS HQ SO3 ES (L) (OF2) SO3 ES (L) (OF2) SO3 ES (L) (OF2) SO3 ES (L) (OF2) SO3 ES (L) (OF2) ES Platoon AQMS (OR8) VRS/Inspection Art Veh (OR7) VM (OR6) VM (OR6) VM CL1 (OR4) VM CL1 (OR3) VM CL2 (OR3) VM CL2 (OR3) VM CL2 (OR2) VM CL2 (OR2)

CJSU SO3 ES (L) (OF2) Calibration Art Tech (OR7) Tech Elec (OR6) Tech Elec (OR6) MDSS Tech Elec (OR6) A&G Art Veh (OR7)

RiB (1 MERCIAN LAD) Art Veh (OR8) Armr (OR7) VM (OR6) VM (OR6) VM (OR6) VM (OR6) VM CL1 (OR3) VM CL1 (OR3) Armr CL1 (OR3) VM CL2 (OR3) VM CL2 (OR3) VM CL2 (OR2) Armr CL2 (OR2)

The wire diagram shows the ES laydown of the different Trade groups and rank range of the Posts available for REME service pers onnel to be able to apply for on their PPPs. It also includes where the posts are in the two Sovereign Base Areas Akrotiri, Episkopi and Dhekelia. There are plenty of opportunities available in B FC so why not take the chance and place it on your PPP. You never know – it could happen as it has for many others. It will be an amazing assignment whether you are a single soldier or with your fami ly.

Foreword by the Officer Commanding

JMETS is a Joint Workshop commanded by a REME OF3, Major Chris Postlethwaite. It has a workforce of 219 personnel from two different services (Army and RAF) and three Army Cap Badges (LEC) workforce who work with the Squadron as MT Drivers, Storemen, VMs, Vehicle Inspectors and Technicians within the Calibration Centre.

The Squadron is spread across three locations within British Forces Cyprus (BFC) supporting Cyprus Operational Support Unit (COSU). The bulk of the Squadron is based at RAF Akrotiri with two smaller detachments in Episkopi and Dhekelia.

JMETS is a complex Sub-Unit; working in a joint environment, with a mixture of LAND and AIR facing Ground Support Equipment (GSE), and has its challenges. Different elements either support or operate this equipment, but the end result is that we are an integrated workforce; providing transport and engineering solutions to enable Operations, sustain BFC and support wider Defence interests in the region.

Despite its size we have a relatively small command team. The OC is supported by a 2IC (Capt Carl Tibbetts), ASM (WO1 David Mavin), SQAC (Sgt Ritchie Thomson) and a Civilian Clerk. The ES Platoon (over 100 personnel in strength) is commanded by a REME AQMS (WO2 Chris Fletcher) and Engineering Control is also run by an AQMS (WO2 Rory Hutchison). The Motor Transport Flight (also over 100 personnel in strength) is commanded by a junior RAF Flying Officer.

Life for the largest Squadron within BFC is busy and we have several challenges including; the maintenance of an ageing vehicle fleet, educating a varied customer base on Equipment Care as well as aligning traditional Army policies (e.g. UECD) into the RAF Quality Management System. As you read the submissions from the JMETS Sections you will see that over recent months COVID 19 has had a major impact on the norm and, like all units across Defence, we have had to adapt our processes to reflect this so that we can continue to provide operational output.

JMETS provides a varied and challenging working environment, in a beautiful part of the world. In addition to this there are many (REME, RLC and R Sigs). It also has a large Locally Employed Civilian

opportunities to explore the island and wider region and complete AT. When you are surrounded by crystal clear waters and breathtaking mountain views, it is hard not to fall in love with Cyprus.

J4 BFC HQ

Scribe: Capt Christopher Hanks J4 Branch ES, HQ BFC is based in Episkopi. The remit is to provide assurance, oversight and direction to ES organisations on the island and form part of the BFC planning cell. The team comprises of four, SO3 ES (Capt), ASM ES (WO1), SSgt ES, and an RAF WO ES Air. Due to the complex nature of the BFC White Fleet, they are the Project Team conducting through-life functions of the fleet, procurement through to disposal. They are also responsible for the generation and management of bespoke ES contracts.

Recovery Section

Scribe: Cpl Stringer Following the announcement of travel restrictions, Recovery Section found itself in a bit of a pickle. The Section IC and his 2IC both had to quarantine on their arrival back from the UK, meaning the section was run by a newly promoted LCpl Angus and Cfn Eggington.

To their credit they did a fine job, until the ‘virus free’ IC and 2IC returned to somewhat slightly different working practices due to the Covid-19 considerations.

Despite this, the section has still been busy recovering and backloading the aging BFC vehicle fleet between various repair agencies. This has all been completed with the ageing but trusty Ford Iveco Slide backs. In addition, the Recovery Landover, fitted with a recovery winch, was used predominantly for the recovery of vehicles from the Akrotiri Salt Lake.

This was put to the test one evening (obviously a Friday evening) when two members of 2 MERCIAN missed a small puddle and ended up getting bogged down. Their vehicle was subsequently referred to as the submarine by all those involved with the recovery, repair (and subsequent casting) of the vehicle.

In another noteworthy job, LCpl Angus and Cfn Eggington assisted our RAF colleagues by providing support in the form of a SVR which was used to change multiple rotary blades on a Chinook helicopter at RAF Akrotiri. In addition, in recent months, we have assisted 17 P&M Regt RLC, who now have a detachment in Akrotiri with numerous taskings.

As previously mentioned, 2 MERCIAN are a good customer; none more so than when they lost their only set of vehicle keys for a MAN SV during a final attack whilst on exercise in Episkopi. What should have been a simple recovery task turned out otherwise, as the vehicle could only be recovered in one direction due to poor positioning and no steering. This meant many hours of shovel and pickaxe work. Once the vehicle was in enough space, it was necessary to turn the vehicle round and go back through the route it had just come. This job was on a Friday afternoon and resulted in Cfn Eggington’s leaving speech being delivered by somebody else with two members of the section missing his leaving drinks, so not ideal. The section was called upon to represent the Squadron in the form of stands, for a socially distanced Armed Forces Day for the children of the Akrotiri School. A stand was also provided for the yearly Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Day for the young adults of the St Johns School of Episkopi. The Recovery Stand always goes down well at these events. At the time of writing, there is a wholesale change of personnel happening with Cfn Eggington already assigned to 3 ACS Bn REME on promotion. Also, both the Section IC and 2IC on being selected for promotion, were moved earlier than

expected. Looking to the future, the Section is now being placed into the safe (rugby playing) hands of SSgt Binding who arrived on promotion. He is supported by a new 2IC, Cpl ‘Brooksey’ Brookes, and Cfn Forster (who started his first week on the sick after he ended up in a cast at his first football training session). I’d like to wish them all the best for the future and I’m sure the Section will continue to be held in high regard for the work it does.

Armourers in the Cyprus Operational Support Unit (COSU)

Scribe: Sgt Blount The role of an Armourer in COSU Akrotiri Station Armoury is very different from the normal Armourer role in a LAD. Working under a RAF CoC and adapting to RAF policies can be challenging, especially when trying to maintain the rules and regulations as mandated by the Army. Nevertheless, we are a small section of RAF and REME Armourers using our experience across the different services and weapon platforms to achieve maximum output.

We deal with the weapons maintenance and issues for all weapons on Station as well as those that transit through and satellite units. We have obligations to both LAND and AIR elements of Op SHADER, ensuring that the optimal support is available, whether this is giving advice on equipment care, deploying forward to aid inspections or issuing weapons to a departing Hercules or Typhoon Det at ridiculous hours.

It is not all work and no play. They do let us out on the odd occasion, and a lot of us make the best of the opportunity of living and working in Cyprus. Members of the Section have used their free time to take up some of the sporting options that are out here, such as archery and cycling. Others have completed their diving qualification.

All in all, it has been a great mixture of work and play. Most people use the amazing opportunities here at COSU Akrotiri to the best of their abilities.

Vehicle Repair Section

Scribe: Cfn Wilson-Baig Our mission this year at VRS has been to maintain the fleet, carrying out all the level 1 and 2 repairs and servicing to keep the Green and White vehicles on the road. This year we have moved, which has enabled us to increase production by having more bays and space. The hanger is better equipped because it has air-lines at each bay so we can do more jobs, which vary from oil/filter changes to engine changes. Being able to do a higher percentage of tasks is important in the summertime as we have to bring White fleet servicing forward. Local garages shut for the summer, so we have to try and fix the problem if we can. This posting in Cyprus has been the first time where I have worked with Civilian Mechanics; they are really helpful as they have been doing this for years, so they have bags of experience and useful techniques.

During the past year I enjoyed assisting in changing the bulkhead on a Land Rover, for the first time. It was a very challenging job to do with the tools at our disposal as we are a level 2 facility, not a level 3. It felt good once we had it all back together and it fired up first time with the ancillaries all working perfectly too.

During downtime, we are able to set up loads of activities; including football. Now it is summer, we have been going to the

beach and doing a bit of snorkelling.

Medical and Dental Servicing Section (MDSS)

Scribe: Sgt Giles MDSS is a Branch within the Military where Electrical Engineers come from Trade Group 5 (RAF) and REME (Army) to perform rectification and preventative maintenance on a variety of medical, dental and veterinary equipment.

There is a small contingency of four technicians based on BFC at RAF Akrotiri, which provide MDSS support across the island. This includes the Medical and Dental centres spread across five locations; Akrotiri, Ayios Nikolaos, Nicosia (Ledra Palace and UN Blue Beret Camp), Dhekelia and Episkopi Garrisons. The latter two also have Resident Infantry Battalion medical units, which also require MDSS

support, along with the working dogs unit based at Episkopi. MDSS on the island also supports any Naval taskings that dock in Cyprus, along with the Search and Rescue contingent based at the airfield. BFC MDSS have also taken on responsibility for the maintenance of Op SHADER equipment.

This ensures it can be turned around and sent back to theatre with minimal detrimental effect to operational capacity.

Some of the equipment MDSS work on can range from primary health care such as patient monitors, dental chairs, sterilisation units to X-ray units and even complex life saving devices such as ventilator systems or infusion devices, to name a few.

JMETS Ancillary and General (A&G) Section

departments including the Air terminal, in addition to the Medical Centre. Also noteworthy was the bar we built to provide the newly formed JMETS Sqn with recreational facilities.

Calibration and EOD Department

Scribe: SSgt Gyamfi The Calibration Department is one of two centres across the MOD and it comprises of an Artificer Electronics, a supporting Sgt and a

Within the Technician element of JMETS there is also support to experience using the smaller of the two EOD robots. Scribe: Sgt Jacobs RAF The A&G Section consists of a Carpentry Workshop, Surface Finish Facility, Signwriting Capability and a Metal Work Bay. The bulk of the manpower within the section are LECs who have worked for the MOD for over 20 years; they are very much at the heart of the unit. A&G are undeniably a highly sought-after capability and heavily relied upon to deliver a niche capability. The vast product output ranging from manufacturing, modifying and repairing parts for Aircraft, BFC/SBA vehicles, Airfield Support Equipment, bespoke frames, signage, shelters and furniture pieces. The operational output and productive impact of this section is unmeasurable.

The section has been busy with the reaction to COVID-19,

team of Cypriot civilians who have a wealth of knowledge, many having done the job for over 20 years.

The cell supports all units on the island and any forward units on operations who are further afield, including Op SHADER. For calibration purposes the facility needs to be kept at a constant temperate of 20 degrees C+/- 1 degree, which means we have air conditioning. Our workplace becomes popular in the summer months. All work carried out is within British Standards and as such means that the centre has regular inspections to ensure work is being carried out correctly. The cell passed its last inspection in July 2020 and the next one is in February 2021.

the operational EOD team. Elements of JMETS were involved in the running of a STEM presentation day for children aged 10-15. Here the EOD team were invited to assist, and the children were able to producing signage and building safety screens for several

Inspections Cell

Scribe: Sgt Holden The Cell consists of three REME VMs (Sgt, Cpl and LCpl) and three LECs. We are one of the busiest sections within JMETS with over 800 vehicles to inspect throughout the year. This has been one of the busiest units I have been to throughout my career. To an extent that includes operations and exercises.

The last 12 months has been very challenging for everyone, probably more so for inspections. With LECs being sent home due to

being in the high-risk category with COVID-19 and a change in the inspection policy, maintaining 800 pieces of equipment has been difficult. The change in inspections policy began in February, which effectively doubled our inspections through the year from 800 to 1600.

The staffing levels meant that we had only two inspectors to carry out all inspections. Maintaining a high level of output has meant long hours since the beginning of the year and when current restrictions were lifted, we welcomed back the civilian inspectors with open arms.

We were tasked with organising the 453 March for 2019, which is completed every year on Poppy Day to help raise money for the Royal British Legion. The aim of the event is to raise money by marching one mile as a team for every Serviceman and woman who has lost their lives on operations in Afghanistan.

With the Fireworks Display and Poppy Day activities all rolled into one, we raised well over £6000, and the event was enjoyed by all military and family members.

We have also assisted in various STEM days within the station, which involved the local schools visiting and being shown various jobs with very basic hands on experience.

TQMS Department

Scribe: SSgt Dunsire The TQMS department in RAF Akrotiri is one of the busiest and most rewarding places to work in Cyprus. It is responsible for the equipment support of over 800 vehicles, from Land Rovers to SBA Police Boats, making it a one stop shop.

There are good opportunities for TSS to expand their skill set; ES MAT is usually an RLC LSS function but in Cyprus REME TSS are at the heart of it. It gives the TSS a much wider view of how things operate all over the island as 90% of ES MAT spares are held within the department. You need to look forward and plan for exercises a lot further in advance because the geographical location means you may need to wait at least a month to get a spare from the UK. The department is constantly in touch with Formation HQ as they plan for Brexit contingency preparation leading into the new year.

The department also deals with managing the Unit EE and making sure all the other REME Tradesmen have the equipment they need to carry out any task given to them. Due to the large fleet of vehicles being mainly White Fleet, many tools that are required are not what you would normally get in the VM Basic Box.

This means that there are loads of Local Equipment Schedules, which is always hard to manage when working with the RAF due to their high level of tool control.

JMETS is split between Dhekelia and Akrotiri. For this reason, we have a store that manages the needs of all the civilian and military personnel. A busy period is always the time when Resident Battalions are handing over, as the department deals will all the REME demands until the new Battalion is established.

Although it is a challenging and very busy place to work, let’s face it, it’s Cyprus! ES Platoon is a very social place to work and we are like a small family. There is always something happening, including good opportunities to get away on adventurous or military training courses.

Cyprus Joint Security Unit (CJSU)

Scribe: Sgt Edwards The CJSU is a joint Army/ RAF multi-cap badge unit stationed within RAF Akrotiri. It covers a large and varied list of tasks from vetting to the Close Support Be Secure on Island Team. There is a medium sized fleet, looked after by one VM Sgt who doubles up as the MT SNCO. His duties are equally as varied, from servicing, maintaining and repairing an ever-changing fleet to providing duty recovery and liaising with local repair and parts agencies. The job is incredibly rewarding and at times very challenging as the unit operates at a constant high tempo. It does however provide that rare opportunity of being your ‘own boss’ and being allowed the freedom to manage your own time effectively by a dynamic and forward-thinking Command Team.

Squadron Quality Assurance Co-ordinator (SQAC)

Scribe: Sgt Thompson SQAC is an RAF role undertaken by REME, often an Artificer. The role requires close liaison with all sections and multiple station assets regarding the many aspects of assurance, safety and equipment care. The incumbent works with the OC and ASM, as well as the Station SHE, Quality Assurance Cell and all outside assurance and compliance agencies to ensure adherence to A&I Logs, TORs and ASOs (Aviation Standing Orders – how we do what and by who).

The SQAC is also responsible for carrying out the Domain Manager’s role for JMETS, highlighting risks, issues and patterns for passage to higher level, which helps the Station staff look for trends where improvements can be made.

Being the focal point for the RAF Inform and DASOR process has its challenges too, with managing the promulgation of In-forms (a form where any issue can be highlighted and filled in anonymously for passage to the relevant department or higher). Similar to In-Forms are DASORs (Dangerous Air Safety Occurrence Reports). However, they are completed in more depth and require rapid action by parties involved to stop and prevent dangerous actions/processes from taking place in the future. Lastly, the SQAC is responsible for managing Continuous Improvement (CI) events and rallies, where any person at any level or trade can put forward ideas and suggestions to aid a multitude of issues. These include streamlining, improving, removing malpractice, clarifying and teaching.

EOD RCV Technician

Scribe: Sgt Thompson This role is responsible for three different EOD Remote Controlled Vehicle (RCV) platforms on six vehicles. The role involves through-life inspection, maintenance and repair of the capabilities that are recently, this has seen the delivery by DE&S and full in-inspections carried out. Although they are in place to carry out many of the UXO (Un-exploded Ordnance) tasks and are on standby for suspect IEDs, the RCVs tend to be the highlight of any STEM activity days and/or public displays around the station. They are used to highlight many of the diverse and interesting areas that future Craftsmen and women can work in and be involved with.

1 PWRR LAD – Resident Infantry Battalion ESBA LAD

Scribe: Cfn Webber Life in Cyprus! As a Craftsman posted to Cyprus, I have found it to be both fun and challenging, increasing both my social circle and my trade knowledge. Since arriving in Cyprus at the LAD in February, I have had the opportunity to attend a REME cohesion event in Episkopi Garrison. This in turn allowed me to meet and expand my circle of fellow REME personnel in the BFC community. During the event I was able to take part in water sports before it concluded with a BBQ in Episkopi, hosted by 2 MERCIAN LAD.

It’s not just sun and fun. There is a lot of work to be done and anyone wishing to apply for a role in Cyprus should be prepared for that. We have completed multiple production days throughout July and August, starting early and finishing late. This additional, undisturbed time expanded my knowledge and trade skills whilst allowing me to become familiar with new technical equipment. We have a small but aged fleet of B vehicles that are keeping me occupied and allowing me to progress through my trade at a good pace.

Another advantage of being in Cyprus is the amount of AT opportunities on offer. Since being here I have spent a week kayaking the Mediterranean and gaining my kayak foundation, which will enable me to progress to gain instructional qualifications if I choose to pursue them. I hope to do this in the future but have to balance the play time with work.

Here in Dhekelia, we have the Joint Services Adventurous Training Centre (JSATC). There are various disciplines for everyone, covering Air, Land and Sea with courses such as sky diving, mountain biking, rock climbing, kayaking and canoeing.

Earlier this year we took part in the Medicine Ball Challenge. A series of running events whilst being chained to a medicine ball, it raises money for various mental health charities. This challenge is shared on rotation between the main three stations in Cyprus (Akrotiri, Episkopi and Dhekelia). 1 PWRR LAD are hosting St Eligius Day for all REME units and I will be delivering a speech alongside the Padre. I will also be participating in the annual engineering challenge against other REME units. It comprises of building an amphibious vehicle, which stationed on the island. With a brand-new platform introduced

will be tried and tested to see who comes out victorious on the day.

Cyprus is a great place to serve with so many opportunities. Come ready to work with a positive attitude and you’ll reap the benefit of this once in a lifetime experience.

2 MERCIAN – Resident Infantry Battalion WSBA LAD

Scribe: LCpl Dennison It’s Monday morning in the height of summer, the sun is already relentless, with the temperature soaring in the mid-30s. Twelve tradesmen from WSBA LAD are ready for another week of graft supporting 2 MERCIAN with their extremely busy schedule.

As well as three Armourers, the Vehicle Mechanics are busy maintaining a fleet of over 130 vehicles ranging from Land Rovers to Pinzgauer and Quadbikes.

With the fleet availability currently sitting above 80% for the first time in a while and the LEA inspection concluded, now presents a fantastic opportunity to explore Cyprus and reap the benefits this beautiful island has to offer.

From skiing and hiking high in the Troodos Mountains to scuba diving in the beautiful clear warm waters of the Mediterranean, there is no excuse to be sat in your room! Opportunities are endless and LAD personnel have been eager to grasp the bull by the horns! Throughout the summer, personnel have enjoyed various activities and events all over the island.

These have included boat cruises in Latchi exploring the stunning Blue Lagoon, scuba diving off the coast of Protaras, recently participating in a clay target shoot, and well-deserved social events in Paphos and Ayia Napa; a perfect opportunity to get together and wind down after a hard week’s work.

This posting doesn’t come around often, so to see members of the LAD fully embracing what the island has to offer is fantastic and memories made here will last forever. I know for certain I will hugely miss Cyprus when the time arrives to move on.