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50 Years Of Puma Ex Spring Storm 845 - The Far Side Of The World

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H E L I C O P T E R

C O M M A N D

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CONTENTS

Contents

Issue 3, 2021

PURPOSE Watchkeeper On Ex Athena Atlas .......................................... 07 71 Aviation Company ............... 08 Ex Vulcan Combat 21 ................16 Ex Spring Storm ........................ 22 847 NAS's Scottish Summer Tour ........................................... 26 Watchkeeper The Road To Readiness .................................. 27 132 Aviation Supply Squadron RLC ............................................ 30 INNOVATION The JHC Challenge - Innovation Fund ...........................................17 Who Are 606 Squadron ............ 20

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INTERNATIONAL PUMA Force Reaches New Heights In Kenya ........................13 845 - The Far Side Of The World .........................................14 Ex Chinthe Rise Aboard HMS Prince Of Wales ........................ 24 PEOPLE Chinook Detachment Triathlon .05 Macmillan Coffee and Cake Morning .................................... 05 Defence Road Safety Awards (DRSA) 2021 .............................. 06 9/11, 20 Years On ...................... 09 Joint Helicopter Support Squadron ...................................11 Safe Space .................................12 E-Sports .................................... 25 Exercise Noctem Warrior Day In The Life Of A Student ............... 28 Landing Zone Readership ........ 31 Clay Target Shooting In The JHC Sights ........................................ 32

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HISTORY 27 Squadron RAF Regiment Disbandment Flypast ............... 10 Tactical Supply Wing Celebrates 50 Years ......................................18 50 Years Of PUMA .................... 34 EDITORIAL SUBMISSION DATE…

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J O I N T H XXTH MONTH 2019 L A N D I N G

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T H E C O M M A N D

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Pl e a s e s u b m i t a ll e n t r i e s f o r t h e n ex t i s s u e by n o l a t e r t h a n t h e d a t e s t a t e d a b ove.

This publication is copyright Lance Print Limited and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without prior written permission of Lance Print Limited.

While every care has been taken during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Print Limited cannot be held responsible for accuracy of the information herein or for any consequence arising from it. Views Expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Royal Air Force or the Ministr y of Defence. All images © Crown Copyright unless other wise stated.

LANDING ZONE / ISSUE 3, 2021 3

PURPOSE

Foreword As another year draws to a close, I hope you will join me in reflecting on some of what you have successfully achieved across the JHC during 2021.

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orldwide Exercises and Operations have again been challenging and varied in equal measure.

Alongside what might be considered (incorrectly) ‘routine’ JHC activity in Hereford, Northern Ireland, Cyprus and Brunei, 2021 has seen the Puma Force draw down from Afghanistan, CHF support the first major deployment of the UK Carrier Strike Group, the 1 Avn Bde and RAF Benson deliver very visible deployments in support of the Land Regional Hub pilots in Oman and Kenya respectively and RAF Odiham continue to service the unrelenting operational demand in the Middle East and West Africa. All supported (as ever) by 7 Bn REME, Tactical Supply Wing (TSW), Joint Helicopter Support Sqn (JHSS), 6 Regt AAC and 606 RAuxAF Sqn. The professionalism and determination of JHC’s personnel, whether away on operations or supporting from home, has been clear to see throughout.

I have also been delighted to see TSW’s 50th Anniversary celebrations held in August alongside much respected veterans of the RAF Servicing Commandos. In fact, 2021 has seen quite a few significant milestones (inc the Chinook 40th and Puma 50th anniversaries) and it has been heartening to see the support not only from within our own Services but from the public too.

Of course, it hasn’t been all work and I’ve been pleasantly surprised by JHC personnel around the world who have been able to let their hair down on occasion too. From an unexpected

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opportunity for 33 Sqn to summit Mt Kenya while awaiting the start of Ex INUA ASKARI, to the CH47 detachment hosting a coffee morning on Op NEWCOMBE in aid of McMillian charity. JHC sporting activities have also been prominent. In this Issue of Landing Zone, Maj Dave Barbieri has shot his way to success in Skeet disciplines, and SAC Jamie Griffith has been trailblazing in the less traditional world of eSports on an international stage. And there are a plethora of sporting personalities not covered – 1 Avn Bde’s Capt Jo Ellett and 47 Regt RA’s Gnr Murray (for their successes in Rugby Union) to name but a few!

Finally, wherever in the World you will be this Christmas, let us not forget the members of the JHC team who might not be home with their friends and family.

If you can enjoy some well-deserved time off, please have a great time; but, if you are deployed on Operations, my thoughts are with you for a safe, and I hope still enjoyable, festive period.

I wish one and all the very best, and that 2022 may bring continued adventures and successes all round. Merry Christmas!

Air Vice-Marshal Nigel J Colman OBE MA RAF Commander JHC

COVER IMAGE: RAF chinook conducting mountainous landings flying training in and around Picacho Peak, California, as part of Exercise NOCTUM WARRIOR 2021. Image by Sgt Tim Laurence RAF.

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MeettheTeam EDITORIAL Editor: Flt Lt Gemma Nagi E: Gemma.Nagi100@mod.gov.uk – SALES Sales Manager: Laurence Rowe E: laurence@lanceprint.co.uk T: 01536 334218 – DESIGNER Designer: Amanda Robinson E: amanda@lanceprint.co.uk T: 01536 334226 – PUBLISHER Lance Print Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, Northants NN16 8NL T: 01536 334222 E: mike@lanceprint.co.uk W: www.lanceprint.co.uk– – PRINTER Lance Print Ltd, 29/30 Stapledon Road, Orton Southgate, Peterborough PE2 6TD T: 01733 390 564 E: lanceprint@lanceprint.co.uk W: www.lanceprint.co.uk – FURTHER INFORMATION W: w ww.mod.uk/defenceinternet/ aboutdefence/whatwedo/ airsafetyandaviation/jhc – COVER CREDIT © MoD Crown Copyright – DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS TO BE CONSIDERED FOR NEXT EDITION: 11 FEB 21

PEOPLE

CHINOOK DETACHMENT

TRIATHLON

MACMILLIAN MORNING On Fri 24 Sep 21, ATpr Tobias James from Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) organised a Macmillan coffee and cake morning for the service personnel of 1310 Flight supporting Op NEWCOMBE in Mali, Western Africa.

Written By: Flying Officer Sarah McGhee

During the week of 23-29 Aug 21, the men and women serving on Op NEWCOMBE Chinook detachment took on the challenge of running, cycling and rowing 4603km, the equivalent distance from their base in Mali back to RAF Odiham.

Written By: Flt Lt Abi Flather

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he aim of the challenge was clear: to raise as much money as possible for the Royal British Legion.

Organised by Flt Lt Abi Flather, from the Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS), RAF Benson, the triathlon was held to mark three years of Chinook support to the French Operation (Op BARKHANE) in the Sahel region, while concurrently raising funds for charity.

Despite the operational tempo and temperatures of 45 °C, a total of 66 personnel from 18 Sqn RAF, JHSS, Tactical

Supply Wing, 244 Sigs Sqn, and many more individual augmentees from across Defence, pushed their bodies to the limit to cover a staggering 4667k, raising £850 for the Royal British Legion.

The award for the greatest distance covered by a single competitor went to Sapper Ghan (69 Gurkha Field Sqn (QGE)), with an individual contribution of almost 800km!

Wg Cdr Sommers, the National Component Commander (CH-47), was presented with the cheque by Flt Lt Flather at a ceremony held in Gao on 11 Sep 21.

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he aim of the event was primarily to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support and to provide service personnel with a chance to unwind and socialise with colleagues. ATpr James added a personal touch to the morning by sharing his grandfather’s story regarding his battle with cancer.

possible and enjoyed his last precious moments in peace with his family With this support, he was as comfortable as possible and enjoyed his last precious moments in peace with his family. Mr Noble passed away with his loved ones by his side on Remembrance Day, 11 Nov 08.

The then SAC Samuel John Noble served in the RAF between 1947 and 1949.

Having been too young to serve during World War 2, when notified of his National Service enlistment, he volunteered to join the RAF. Although he did not continue his journey in the RAF for a full career, Mr Noble was extremely proud of his service, just as his grandson, ATpr James, is today.

The support from Macmillan was invaluable to Mr Noble and his family, as it is to many other cancer sufferers and their families today.

Unfortunately, in the mid 2000’s, Mr Noble was diagnosed with cancer. Due to the dedicated care from Macmillan Cancer Support, Mr Noble was cared for at his home. With this support, he was as comfortable as

The show of appreciation to Macmillan Cancer Research, led by ATpr James, was huge and 1310 Flight managed to raise an impressive £351.20.

Attending the event were members from various units from across the RAF and Army: 18 Squadron RAF, support personnel from RAF Odiham, JHSS, 36 Regiment Royal Engineers, the Royal Logistics Corps, the Army Air Corps and the Royal Signals.

Photography curtesy of Fg Off Sarah McGhee and Air Trooper Tobias James.

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PEOPLE

DEFENCE ROAD SAFETY AWARDS (DRSA) 2021 On 20 Oct 21, RAF Benson hosted the DRSA 2021.

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inners of the RAF Rose Bowl 2020 and Defence winners for the Defence Road Safety Award for 2020. The concept is as true today as it was at its introduction, vehiclerelated incidents remain the second largest cause of non-operational fatalities and injuries after training.

The aim of the DRSA is to promote safe driving standards and recognise effective road safety campaigns and initiatives delivered across Defence through the award of the prestigious Rose Bowl trophy.

The trophy was presented by the Deputy Director General of the Defence Safety Authority (DG DSA), Rear Admiral Tom Manson, to RAF Benson as the unit that demonstrated its contribution to Defence road safety.

The DRSA is open to all MOD units, organisations, and contractors. There are 3 categories of entry to the DRSA: Category 1: Major Unit Entry.

Units who have an active Road Safety Team (RST) or Committee (RSC) of more than 4 personnel delivering effective campaigns and initiatives.

Category 2: As above but for RST’s or RSC’s of one to four personnel delivering effective campaigns and initiatives.

Category 3 - Nominated Awards. To include garrisons, regiments, battalion-sized units, bases, establishment, organisations as well as civilian organisations/ individuals and contractors.

The following categories also receive awards, but only by exception:

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Commendation – These are awarded by the judging panel to any unit, team or individual that demonstrates a significant contribution and imaginative campaign which improves the driving standards and safety of their road users.

Innovation: to include a unit, team or individual who demonstrate/ illustrate an innovative idea towards road safety.

RAF Benson Road Safety Committee The RSC at RAF Benson is chaired by Officer Commanding Engineering and Logistics Wing. The RSC is made up of representatives from each section across unit with MT acting as the SME voice. Having representatives from each section on unit is

Recognition: to include an outside organisation for their support and contribution to Defence road safety.

2021 PRIZE WINNERS Category 1: 1st RAF Benson – Received Rose Bowl trophy.

2nd RAF Akriotiri – Received Crystal Bowl.

3rd RAF Leeming – Received certificate.

Category 2: 1st 6 RLC – Received Crystal Trophy.

2nd CLR RM – Received Crystal Trophy.

3rd 253 (NI) Med Regt (V ) – Received certificate.

Commendations: WO Royer, RAF Benson, received a Commendation for his passionate contribution to Road Safety. This comes following him winning the DRSA Rose Bowl Award four times during his tenure as MTO, RAF Benson.

901 Expeditionary Air Wing; including Sgt James Allen, RAF Benson MT Section, demonstrated strong leadership and innovation to lead his team to deliver multiple effective Road Safety Campaigns during his deployment to Al Udeid.

901 EAW award recipients, including RAF Benson’s Sgt Allen. vitally important to ensure that any message or campaign run by the RSC receives the most effective exposure across Unit.

WO Royer received his Commendation, presented

by Deputy DSA DG, Rear Admiral Tom Manson

of their road safety initiatives, campaigns, training delivery and events. Engagement with the local community, youth groups and the on-base school also benefitted from the Benson team. RAF Benson continued to partner with Devon and Cornwall Police for advanced driver training and to assist them with escorting high consequence freight.

Please scan the QR Code to watch the latest RAF Benson Road Safety Campaign.

The RSC delivered effective campaigns and initiatives which was particularly commendable during the restrictions of the pandemic. From the RSC, vast improvements to road infrastructure has increased safety at RAF Benson for service personnel and their families and the appetite hasn’t slowed down into 2022!

The RAF Benson submission provided detailed descriptions

Rose Bowl Trophy and First place winners of Category 1 – RAF Benson.

PURPOSE

WATCHKEEPER ON EX ATHENA ATLAS Remotely Piloted Air Systems (RPAS) are key to supporting the British Army’s ‘Future Soldier’ concept.

Written By: Written by Lt H Loxdale 47 RA

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atchkeeper has emphasised its place in the modern battlefield, as demonstrated by its successful deployment to the English Channel last year during Op DEVERAN. With the Regiment’s continued flying of Watchkeeper in Cyprus, the next objective was to prove the concept by deploying Army RPAS to an austere environment. The intent was to develop airmanship, while finding and fighting the enemy from a tactical location that lacked key infrastructure.

To achieve this, 47th Regiment Royal Artillery (47 Regt RA) deployed Watchkeeper RPAS to Keevil Airfield on Ex ATHENA ATLAS in May 2021.

As a result, Keevil Airfield pioneered many procedures for Watchkeeper deployments.

It presented its own opportunities to train with no useable infrastructure. It has proven that Watchkeeper can deploy to an austere location and conduct successful sorties without the permanent ATC, hangars or station facilities normally available at RAF Boscombe Down, RAF Akrotiri or Lydd Airport.

Through rehearsals, innovation and technical support, the

Watchkeeper unloaded from Dual Air Vehicle Container (in rear of photo) deployed at Keevil Airfield.

detachment has effectively shown that these hurdles can be overcome. Importantly, the deployment demonstrated that Watchkeeper is an expeditionary capability that can operate across the globe through the expertise of the professional aviators in 47 Regt RA. Watchkeeper from the air..

In addition, to ensure all equipment maintenance, the Regiment’s REME Workshop trialled the use of a Forward Maintenance Facility (FMF).

The FMF capability enables REME technicians to: “Work on the aircraft constantly ensuring it was ready to fly whenever needed.” LCpl Hellon, 47 Regt RA Workshop.

The FMF is an inflatable hangar that has the capacity to store unmanned aircraft.

This gives an all-weather capability to deploy to any tarmacked or rough strip location. Thus, Watchkeeper’s operational reach has been significantly enhanced.

In addition to this innovative deployment model, the detachment supported multiple key exercises over Salisbury Plain Training Area (SPTA). In support of the manoeuvre units, the Regiment learned how to integrate within the Royal Artillery ‘system of systems’. For example, Watchkeeper Integration Teams (WIT) embedded with 26th Regiment Royal Artillery during Ex URBAN STRIKE, where live Watchkeeper feeds were used to find and track enemy vehicles so that the experimental Accelerated Targeting Cell could coordinate attacks.

These serials culminated

in an Attack Helicopter strike cross-cued by a Watchkeeper. This represented a significant achievement, proving just how effective these platforms can be when operating in a synchronised and integrated manner.

WITs also provided live Full Motion Video (FMV ) to manoeuvre formations, including Headquarters 7th Infantry Brigade on Ex WESSEX STORM and the Royal School of Artillery (RSA) courses that included the Battery Commander, Fire Support Team (FST) Commander and FST Level 4 courses. Watchkeeper was able to provide accurate target information for live artillery serials to increase the speed of sensor to shoot link and provide immediate battlefield damage assessment.

It was the first time this had been achieved over SPTA and was key training for Regimental pilots and Mission Commanders.

Flying from Keevil Airfield has also produced a quality portfolio of imagery products for SPTA and FTU. These included radar soaks of Copehill Down and Imber village with detailed breakdowns of likely routes, ambush points and key terrain.

This was not only valuable

training for the Intelligence Corps Image Analysts of Hook Troop but enabled further training and real-time products for ground units.

Overall, it has been an enormously successful summer for the professional aviators who operated Watchkeeper at Keevil Airfield that resulted in a great leap forward in training outputs. Looking ahead, Lieutenant Colonel Paul Britton MC RA, Commanding Officer of 47 Regt RA stated,

“We’ve proved that we are in a strong position to take this capability forwards and deploy in an expeditionary manner anywhere in the world.”

The Regiment will continue to expand the capability to refine tactics, techniques, and procedures in expectation of future global deployments.

Watchkeeper Maintenance.

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PURPOSE

71 AVIATION COMPANY Summer 2021 has been a season of change within 71 Aviation Company.

Written By: Lt Stephen Higgins, 71 Avn Coy

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ummer 2021 has been a season of change within 71 Aviation Company. We bid a fond farewell to outgoing OC, Maj Tom McCluskey and welcomed Maj Ben Thomas as the new OC, 71 Coy. Having worked as Deputy Continuous Airworthiness Management (DCAM) in the Continuous Airworthiness Management Organisation (CAMO) previously, Maj Thomas brings a wealth of knowledge as we deploy to the deserts of Oman.

We have also been joined by four fledgling Aircraft Engineering Officers (AEO), fresh out of the Defence School of Electronic and Mechanical Engineering (DSEME) at Lyneham and hungry for knowledge in preparation of their Authorisation Visas.

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They all step into Platoon Commander appointments where they have been diligently busy from the moment they arrived.

The overriding theme of the last few months has been the ever-changing beast that is Ex PINION OMAN. Coined as the spiritual successor to Ex CRIMSON EAGLE, this is the first time since the pandemic that the Coy has deployed abroad on a high-profile overseas training exercise.

The demand to get on the nominal roll has been overwhelming, and we have deployed two platoons of technicians with all the bells and whistles of an Engineering Control Cell with assurance elements. In his first act as the new OC 71, Maj Thomas has stepped up as Lead Aircraft Engineer,

overseeing the complex engineering challenge of commanding the Equipment Support of both Apache and Wildcat helicopters.

serviceable state. The current COVID challenges also resulted in one of the teams being isolated for 10 days after a positive COVID test.

With most of the cabs having just returned from Ex LIGHTNING FORCE, a hefty preparation programme had to be put into action to bring the cabs back to a

However, the Coy rallied and managed to get the majority of maintenance tasks completed on time.

After the cabs were prepped for deployment, they were

PEOPLE

9/11, 20 YEARS ON On 11 Sep 21, two JHC Puma helicopters from 33 Sqn, RAF Benson, participated in a flypast at RAF Lakenheath to commemorate the terrorist attacks that occurred 20 years previous.

Written By: Major R K Schanda, USAF

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n 11 Sep 21, two JHC Puma helicopters from 33 Sqn, RAF Benson, participated in a flypast at RAF Lakenheath to commemorate the terrorist attacks that occurred 20 years previous. The ceremony began precisely at 1528, which was the exact time on 11 Sep 01 that the second tower of the World Trade Centre collapsed.

One minute of silence was observed, which concluded with the two Puma aircraft flying past the ceremonial dais.

The lead aircraft displayed a US flag in the door, while the rear aircraft displayed a Union Jack, showing the solidarity between the two allied nations.

transported to RAF Brize Norton. From there, they would be loaded onto a Ukrainian Antonov by a number of 71 Coy soldiers.

With the aircraft safely on their way to Oman for the start of Ex PINION OMAN, the Coy set about preparing its soldiers and officers for the deployment. Everyone working hard as a team to overcome the incredibly complex task that deploying en masse for a first-of-itskind exercise within the constraints of a pandemic across international borders entails. The Coy started moving to Oman in early September and are now fully established in sunny Oman.

In a cruel stroke of fate, the airfield has been struck with

Participating in the flypast was Major Richard Karl Schanda, a USAF exchange pilot on 33 Sqn. “Being able to fly in the 20th anniversary of 9/11 flypast, in an RAF aircraft, with an RAF crew, over a US base – it was one of the proudest and most memorable experiences of my career.

“This exchange has shown me the depth and strength of the US-UK special relationship, and this sortie symbolized this connection so poignantly for me. I truly appreciate the crew, engineers, and all support staff that made it happen, it was sincerely special for everyone involved.” Of the 2,977 civilians killed on that fateful day, 67 were British.

the first tropical storm in over 130 years, drenching the desert with rain that has had some unintended consequences. One cancellation was a survival course that would be reliant on scavenging drinking water from plant perspiration!

The remaining UK based component of the Coy, the Engineering Acceptance Team, made the trip down to London to exhibit their work at the Defence and Security Equipment International expo. The event attracted tens of thousands of visitors and the new Apache AH-64E stole the show, making the worked weekends and time in the capital worth every moment.

Arte Et Marte.

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HISTORY

27 SQUADRON RAF REGIMENT DISBANDMENT FLYPAST On Wed 6 Oct 21, 27 Squadron were scheduled to conduct a flypast over the disbandment parade of 27 Squadron RAF Regiment at RAF Honington.

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hat morning, the aircraft nominated to fly was declared unserviceable and, due to on-going commitments to national standby, 27 Sqn had no other serviceable Chinooks that could complete the flypast. The maintenance work required to regenerate the flying cab was not going to be completed on time. Reluctantly, 27 Sqn had to inform RAF Honington that they were going to be unable to achieve the flypast, on a very significant day, for an important Squadron, much to their dismay. With that, the crew were stood down.

With no options on the table and none of the 27 Sqn aircraft able to support the flypast due to high priority tasking, OC 27 made a call to 18 Sqn, and it was agreed that 27 could use one of their aircraft (ZA683) that was due to fly later in the day, but had a window of 3 hours flying available. However, that aircraft was not yet prepared for flight.

18 Squadron pulled their aircraft out of the hangar

immediately, completed a significant amount of paperwork in record time to release it to flight earlier than expected. The crew from 27 Sqn were called back into work, rapidly briefed for the sortie, resubmitting all of the flight planning paperwork with help from other pilots and crewmen on the Squadron.

The 27 Sqn planning team went over to 18 Sqn to pick up the technical log for ZA683. The second it was ready and signed off for flight, they dashed it to the aircraft captain, who was stood waiting on the ramp of the Chinook. Flt Lt Boyd signed for the aircraft but a technical glitch on the mission planning system meant the airspace updates for the day couldn’t be loaded onto the data transfer devices for input to the aircraft, making it illegal to fly!

Luckily, due to experience gained on operations, one of the 27 Sqn captains had seen the glitch before and managed to use a manual method of loading the data onto the aircraft, which was launched

with not a minute to spare, the navigation kit, finally and properly configured.

The crew had no time for the 10-minute hold they had planned, to make sure they timed [their] flypast perfectly. Instead they had to manage their progress very meticulously through London’s busy airspace, to emerge on the far side in enough time to hit the time-on-target.

The flypast occurred, on-time, to the second.

Delivered by sheer teamwork across both 18 and 27 Squadrons…a flypast for 27 Squadron RAF Regt, by 27 Squadron RAF…and by chance, the aircraft 18 Squadron supplied was (in 2015-16), the airframe which wore 27 Squadron’s centenary artwork ‘Nellie’ on its tail. It couldn’t have been a more appropriate airframe to recognise the end of our sister RAF Regiment squadron.

Pictured in 2016, a Chinook from 27 Sqn RAF, (accompanied by an AAC Lynx) part of the Squadron’s 100th anniversary celebrations – photographer SAC James Goff.

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Flt Lt Boyd signing for ZA683 in the cabin of the Chinook.

It was a fitting and poignant end to 27 Squadron RAF Regiment’s service, with one SNCO stating; “while it may not have been a big deal to a lot of people, it meant a lot to me and the Sqn. I was deflated when the news came through that it was cancelled, but when I heard it in the distance, I was seriously proud to be stood on parade.”

RAF Honington, RAF Odiham and especially all 27 Sqn RAF Regiment personnel would like to extend their thanks and gratitude to all members of 18 and 27 Sqn for going above and beyond to facilitate the commemorative flypast.

PEOPLE

JOINT HELICOPTER SUPPORT SQUADRON JHSS continue to provide vital Helicopter Handling support to the JHC. Written By: Flt Lt Matty Snape

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021 has been a busy year for the Sqn, with personnel deployed in several countries supporting rotary operations and exercises.

Notwithstanding the increased Sqn commitments, JHSS have entered teams into various high-profile sport and adventure training events and achieved commendable results.

In this edition of LZ we share the experiences from some of the exercises and events that the Sqn has participated in over the last few months.

Exercise ASKARI STORM, Kenya by Flt Lt Jovan Watty JHSS MAOTL In August, a JHSS Military Assessment Team (MAT) deployed to Kenya. The team, Flt Lt Watty and Sgt Palmer, were responsible for reassessing the Helicopter Landing Sites used by the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK), which supports the medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) helicopters and Training Area clearance

activities. In addition, the team was tasked to support the upcoming deployment of elements of the Puma Force to BATUK. Whilst in country, the team were required to set the conditions for a full Mobile Air Operations Team (MAOT) deployment, which would consist of six personnel to support and enable aircrew environmental training. The MAOT responsibilities will also include HLS marking and management, preparation and loading of underslung loads by day and night in remote areas of the vast Kenyan plains. Once fully deployed, they will also support Ex INUA ASK ARI, a Battle Group level deployment of 2 Rifles, through passenger processing and freight loading, both internal and external.

To transit the vast training areas, the team was fortunate to utilise the services of Tropic Air, a MOD-contracted civilian air carrier. Over three days they flew to over 45 sites in the

various BATUK training areas. In a more creative and somewhat unusual way to get round the AOR, the team also found themselves white water rafting between sites situated along a river!

One of the highlights of the deployment was a Battle of Britain event with invited guests from the neighbouring Kenyan Air Force base, and special guests from the British High Commission and BATUK. With a Sunset Ceremony and vignettes about the battle presented, it was a great way to highlight the celebrated traditions of the RAF in a nontraditional setting.

In all, the JHSS MAT deployment was a huge success and paved the way for future Puma Force operations to support land forces in Kenya.

With increased emphasis on aviation support to Kenya through the development of a Land Regional Hub, Kenya may well become a frequent deployment for JHSS MAOTs.

Ex NORTHERN STRIKE (Gore Trophy) by Sgt Ben Regan JHSS BSM. JHSS entered a unique mixed Army/RAF team to compete in the Royal Logistic Corps (RLC) annual military skills competition, Ex NORTHERN STRIKE. A challenging event both mentally and physically for all participants which demonstrated a high level of robustness and teamwork. A very intense day of different stands was not helped by the afternoon’s biblical weather that welcomed us, turning the training area into a swamp!

“Despite limited training opportunities and the infamously bad weather at DST Leconfield, the team performed brilliantly coming 24th in a competitive field of 50, beating several much larger major units in the process. I am very proud of the full teams' efforts.” said Communications Specialist and Team Captain, Cpl Slade.

SAC Gemma Bloomfield commented, “It was nice to experience the whole ethos

Ex NORTHERN STRIKE.

JHSS MAT in Kenya, Flt Lt Watty and Sgt Palmer.

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and Core values of the RLC in a military skills competition.

From an RAF perspective, the whole team did amazingly well, and we finished strong”.

A challenging yet rewarding event in which the team rightly felt a sense of achievement in completing with great results all around.

Army Minor Unit Cross Country Championships – by Flt Lt Dan Greenhalgh.

In October, JHSS entered a team into the Army Minor Unit Cross Country Championships held at Twelseldown Racecourse near Aldershot.

The Joint, four-person team consisted of two Army and two RAF personnel. Each person had to complete a 5km leg as a relay and JHSS were crowned the Minor Unit Champions with a combined time of 1hr 12 minutes.

PEOPLE

2021 has been a very rewarding year for JHSS personnel on worldwide Ops and Exercises. The Sqn has been involved with a wide range of interesting and sometimes unusual tasks, ranging from assistance with conservation projects in Portsmouth to supporting JHC helicopters on Ex IMPERIAL ZEPHYR and NOCTEM WARRIOR in the USA. 2022 is shaping up to be another busy year as the Sqn continues to support other JHC commitments around the world.

Planning is also underway to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the formation of the unit which is scheduled to take place in summer 2022. This promises to be a memorable event for all members of both JHSU and JHSS, past and present.

SAFE SPACE On 11 Sep 21, two JHC Puma helicopters from 33 Sqn, RAF Benson, participated in a flypast at RAF Lakenheath to commemorate the terrorist attacks that occurred 20 years previous.

Written By: Padre Philip Wilson

You can find out more about the activities of JHSS by following us online via our social media platforms:

Twitter: @Joint_Heli #TogetherWeDeliver Instagram: @joint_heli Minor Unit Cross Country Team with their medals.

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AF Chaplaincy recently offered a “Safe Space” in the Station Church at RAF Benson for Service Personnel in JHC and others across the base to reflect on the momentous news as UK Forces left Afghanistan after twenty years of involvement.

The Station Church was open for 30-minute vigils

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on Sunday 5 and Monday 6 Sep 21. Additionally, the building left open until midnight for people to come and go as they pleased.

Some visitors lit candles, others wrote prayers, words and phrases. Participants in the vigils were asked to describe how they felt about UK military engagement in Afghanistan and words

INTERNATIONAL

PUMA FORCE REACHES NEW HEIGHTS IN KENYA In late Sep 21, twelve members of the Puma Force deployed on Exercise INUA ASKARI, as part of Joint Helicopter Force (Kenya) (JHF(K)), have summited Mount Kenya.

Written By: Flt Lt Tom McInally

such as “painful”, “proud”, “sad”, “conflicted” and “confused” were expressed.

Passages from the Bible and Prayers were led by Padre Paul Stephens, RAF Benson.

His colleague, Padre Philip Wilson, remarked: “We felt that, in the midst of the wallto-wall news coverage, there was a need to have literally a safe space for people to reflect and to remember.

For a lot of people in JHC, Afghanistan represented an enormously significant amount of time in their lives and there is a need to express that mentally, emotionally, and spiritually in a way that hopefully makes sense. To re-member is to bring together what was dis-membered and this is an important aspect of our work as Padres. We are always here to help people reflect and to find value and meaning in what we are all asked to do. I would strongly encourage people to get in touch with us if there’s ever anything we can do to help them or their loved ones.”

Below are some poignant verses from “The End and the Beginning” by Wislawa Szymborska, which were read during the vigils: After every war someone has to tidy up.

Things won’t pick themselves up after all.

Someone has to shove the rubble to the roadsides so the carts loaded with corpses can get by.

Someone has to trudge through sludge and ashes, through the sofa springs, the shards of glass, the bloody rags.

Someone has to lug the post to prop the wall, someone has to glaze the window, set the door in its frame.

No sound bites, no photo opportunities, and it takes years.

All the cameras have gone to other wars.

Someone, broom in hand, still remembers how it was.

Someone else listens, nodding his unshattered head.

But others are bound to be bustling nearby who’ll find all that a little boring.

From time to time someone still must dig up a rusted argument from underneath a bush and haul it off to the dump.

W

hilst eagerly awaiting the arrival of their Puma Helicopter aircraft for the start of the Exercise, the recent deployment of RAF Benson personnel ensured that this time was not wasted. They grasped an opportunity to undertake a four-day expedition to summit Mt Kenya. The entire team successfully summited the Point Lenana peak, which sits at an altitude of 4,985m/16,355ft.

The unanticipated opportunity for adventurous training was unique and thoroughly enjoyed by all members of the crew. Spirits remained high throughout the trek and forged a strong feeling of team ethos through the

33 Sqn OC B Flt thanking the Afric team on day four.

numerous challenges that the mountain presented.

Logistical support was provided by the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK).

The Team also placed their faith in the mountain leaders and porters of African Ascents, who demonstrated outstanding care and skills throughout.

Thankfully the Pumas have now arrived in Kenya and the first flights have taken place.

During the Exercise, the Puma Force will deliver the JHF(K) commitment to support Battle Group land training, staged from BATUK. The deployment will also enable key engagements with members of the Kenyan Government and Armed Forces, paving the way for the future of Britain’s Global Hub in east Africa.

an Ascents

Campsite below the summit of Mt Kenya..

Those who knew what this was all about must make way for those who know little.

And less than that.

And at last nothing less than nothing.

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INTERNATIONAL

845 – THE FAR SIDE OF THE WORLD B Flight of 845 NAS is currently deployed in RFA FORT VICTORIA (FTVR) as the Commando Aviation Detachment (CAD) of the UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG).

Written By: Lt H B Saunders RN

O

p FORTIS is the largest Task Group deployed by the Royal Navy in recent memory, marking a radical change in the way that UK maritime aviation is deployed.

The majority of the Fight embarked FT VR while she sat alongside in Faslane, with the Merlin Mk4’s of the CAD joining a few days later as she approached the South Coast of the UK. As the rest of the CSG prepared to ship from Portsmouth, a fire on board FT VR forced a last-minute

relocation of the CAD to HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH (QNLZ).

History appeared to repeat itself as nearly 50 years ago B Flight deployed on the aircraft carrier HMS ALBION to the Far East, where they saw action in the dense foliage of Borneo and gave birth to the nickname ‘Junglies’. Remaining flexible with a can-do attitude, in difficult and constantly evolving circumstances, is part of the Junglie reputation and has ensured the preservation of operational output. This

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is thanks in no small part to the efforts of the B Flight engineers.

LAET Clucas, B Flight avionics engineer remarked: “So far on Op FORTIS, the engineers have been busy with a range of engineering challenges which have included a generator fail, flying control restrictions and a rejected main gearbox, to name but a few.

On top of that, the short notice move to QNLZ from FT VR, with minimal maintenance equipment, made things a little tricky.

“However, we took this in our stride and made sure an aircraft was available for tasking during a busy tempo. Our return to FT VR coincided with a muchwelcomed break in Cyprus. Our return to FT VR did however require a small team of two engineers to remain with the aircraft on QNLZ, whilst a replacement gearbox was arranged in the UK. “As we approached our next port visit, an additional seven engineers returned to QNLZ to begin the replacement of

the unserviceable gearbox. A challenging endeavor on land, let alone on a very busy aircraft carrier. Op FORTIS is the first deployment for many of the Air Engineering Technicians (AET) on board and we are looking forward to hopefully having some more runs ashore to experience the local cultures.”

It takes all types and trades to keep a deployment ticking; the CAD brings with it a chef, aircraft handlers, Survival Equipment (SE) specialists, logistics, Royal Navy Police and an armourer, bringing the total complement of support personnel to seventy-five. The addition of these personnel to B Flight allow Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) units to deploy as self-sustaining units. Improving their ability to remain flexible to rapidly

changing situations, as demonstrated early in the deployment with our short notice move to QNLZ. The small team of seven aircraft handlers have found FT VR has not afforded them the same luxury QNLZ had with her large flight deck and vast hangars.

However, this did not prevent LH Edney and his team make best use of the limited space available on FT VR. “Our daily struggle is getting the aircraft in and out of the hangar that was built for a Sea King, meaning we do not get much room for error, approximately three inches either side. As a team we also managed to squeeze in a third Merlin in the port side hangar, an achievement many said could not be done due to the fuel farm blocking our path,

wings and now on his first deployment, PO ACMN Hulme has found Op FORTIS to be anything but ordinary:

we managed this without removing any aircraft parts and a lot faith in each other’s keen eye.” LH Edney.

The unique addition of CHF chef AB Elias to B Flight and his integration within the ship’s catering team, ensures the detachment remain fed whilst operating at unsociable hours and outside of the ships mealtimes.

busy, not only since departing on Op FORTIS but also during the preparations back at RNAS Yeovilton. We had lots of new kit along with some unexpected fastballs, but when the deployment started, we were in a good position. Op FORTIS has been the first big deployment for the three of us and having recently joined a

“I have found that no two days have been quite the same in the last few months. We have been called upon to facilitate the movement of essential stores to wherever they may be required and, as such, I have found myself on almost every ship in the task group.

“Along with our requirement to move vast amounts of passengers, mail and cargo, we have also been required to regularly stand up as Task Group Search and Rescue. As a result, we have undertaken plenty of intense SAR training as both the Winch Operator

“During Op FORTIS, I have worked within RFA FORT VICTORIA’s catering services department, supporting 845 NAS operations. The engineers and aircrew can often work late into the night, so it’s my job to keep them happy and fed outside of traditional working hours.

“The deployment has been really enjoyable so far, visiting Sicily and Cyprus makes the hard work worth it. I’m very much looking forward to visiting countries in the Far East and trying their local cuisine. During my downtime onboard, I’ve enjoyed using the gym, catching up with T V and generally chilling out, ready to go again the next day.”

AB Elias.

Throughout B Flight’s predeployment training and into Op FORTIS, the SE maintainers have been kept busy with the large amount of kit associated with Search and Rescue (SAR) as we have looked to hone our skills. LSET Spencer commented of his time so far: “With only a small team of three SE’s we have been kept

CHF squadron it’s been a new experience for us all! 845 NAS have been heavily focused on SAR which, for us, means lots of maintenance. Whilst on QNLZ we were mainly focused on getting the Aircrew operational – this consisted of us dealing with kit which is quite new to us including radios and life rafts.”

and Winch Man. I have been able to enjoy a swim in the Mediterranean, Indian Ocean, South China Sea and various other spots on our travels.

On top of this we have also conducted VERTREP, gunnery, VIPTA X and CASEVAC sorties ensuring that the life of a

Junglie Aircrewman on Op FORTIS can never be said to be monotonous!’

Where the CAD works hard, it also plays hard, and opportunities for some down time at sea with the opening of the QNLZ flight deck for sporting activities included clay pigeon shooting, American football and cricket to name but a few. Despite the uncertain times, the port visits in Sicily and Cyprus have afforded the detachment the opportunity to leave the ship for a few days and explore what each country has to offer.

After the Task Group sailed from Cyprus and headed for the Red Sea, the CAD was returned to FT VR and has seen out the rest of the deployment, so far, embarked in her. Having transited the Suez Canal, Indian Ocean and Malacca Straits, thoughts now turn to the third port visit on the small Pacific island of Guam.

The most eastern point on the deployment and the greatest time zone change, now nine hours ahead of the UK. As the CSG passes through the contested waters of the South China Sea, B Flight continues to support Op FORTIS anytime, anywhere.

From movements of supplies and personnel keeping the Task Group operating, to providing SAR at a moment’s notice to help those in need, the Commando Aviation Detachment remains ready.

B Flight have flown over 300hrs so far supporting Defence Engagement events, sharpening SAR skills and exercising with troops as well as moving routine passengers mail and cargo (PMC). One sortie alone, working with counterparts from 820 NAS saw 66 loads, totaling around 30 tonnes, distributed between the ships of the task group.

Having recently received his

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PURPOSE

EX VULCAN COMBAT 21 Since it’s inception in the winter of 2019, 70 Field Company of 7 Aviation Close Support Battalion REME, had not been able to deploy on either a Battle Craft Syllabus (BCS) exercise or a specificto-arm Equipment Support (ES) exercise.

E

x VULCAN COMBAT saw the Coy simultaneously undertake both.

The Aim of Ex VULCAN COMBAT was to provide assurance within 1 Aviation Brigade Combat Team (1 Avn BCT) that not only could we conduct second line ES, but that we could protect ourselves and carry out other missions whilst doing so. The ES phase also saw the Battalion hosting the first ever Land ES Study Day. The Study Day involved all ES departments within 1 Avn BCT, they discussed the provision of Land ES to the fighting Regiments that provide support to all aviation elements throughout the Army.

Collective Training – BCS Written by Cfn Bruce, Vehicle and General Platoon I recently deployed on Ex VULCAN COMBAT, organised by 70 Field Coy. After an early morning Monday start, we deployed to the Longmoor training area, where we hastily set up our harbour location and started our Reception, Staging and Onward Integration (RSOI) package with a lesson on Orders.

Following an extended period of COVID-19 compliant field training, the RSOI serials were designed to help refresh and sharpen our skills and drills. The RSOI consisted of ten lessons, ranging from ‘Camouflage & Concealment’ through to ‘Aviation Awareness’. We were required to navigate ourselves between these serials which some of us found more challenging than others,

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however, it strengthened our basic soldiering skills as a result.

Collective Training – CHARLIE (CT-C)

The evening of the second day included a night navigation test, with ten checkpoints to reach in a two-hour period. Although we had torrential rain and limited vision, most of us were successful within the time limit.

Day three was the start of our tactical exercise; we cleared our new harbour area and began a lengthy period of digging in.

Written by Cfn Wells, Vehicle and General Platoon

The next few days consisted of Section attack serials, where we rotated Section Commanders and helped each other correct any areas for improvement. We also celebrated the Corps’s birthday by conducting Platoon attacks, before entering our simulated rest day. We ended the exercise by conducted our first Coy attack since our formation as a Coy, with each Platoon clearing three positions; none of which would have been possible without the two immaculate recce’s that were conducted by three Section of both Platoons.

Upon completion of our base line training, we swiftly progressed to Combined Training. This phase provided us the opportunity to demonstrate our second-line trade skills and what 70 Field Coy could do. CT-C began in high spirits as we set up our Coy harbour location. With the combined Coy effort, we secured our area with comms, vehicles, nets for concealment and all the tools needed for the multitude of Vehicle Mechanic, Recovery Mechanic, Metalsmith and Armourer tasks that were lined up throughout the week.

As we launched into our first day, personnel were tasked with their individual jobs.

These ranged from diagnosing a MAN SV with major ECU faults, to the removal and condemnation of a prop shaft.

Throughout the rest of the week, despite the dismal weather, we were able to achieve a significant quantity of in-the-field ‘prod’. This included diagnosis and repair of air leaks, replacement of timing belts, and the reconstruction of an exhaust with the aid of the Metalsmiths.

Once specific trade taskings had been completed, we gained experience with different trade groups. I was able to step into the shoes of an Armourer and Metalsmith. We were able to gain understanding of how each trade conducts work whilst in the field as well as getting some hands-on experience. I learnt a variety of skills including how to weld, conduct expedient repair on various components and how to differentiate between unique weapon systems.

Overall, Exercise VULCAN COMBAT was an enlightening experience for everyone, getting us out of the workshop and developing our skills as soldiers in every aspect.

INNOVATION

THE JHC CHALLENGE - INNOVATION FUND Have you ever thought “There must be an easier way to do this?” or “Why are we so behind the times?” We are sure you’re not alone.

Written By: JHC Comd SM Andy Howgate

I

f you have ever had an idea of how you would make things simpler and more efficient, or if you are thinking “If only we had that bit of kit, it would save so much time”. Then keep reading, this article is for you!

Joint Helicopter Command is calling out for innovators people like you, with ideas of how to make things better for everyone. The JHC Command Sergeant Major, WO1 Andy Howgate has drawn together a team from across the JHC to assist with capturing your ideas and can provide funding to support their development, to prove concept.

What is the JHC Challenge?

The Army Research Innovation and Experimentation Laboratory (Project ARIEL) have agreed to invest £200,000 per year into the JHC to fund the development of experimental ideas. This is an amazing opportunity for everyone in JHC to see their ideas come to life and make positive changes.

The JHC Challenge will open four times each year (Apr, Jul, Oct and Jan) and will provide a space for ideas to be shared and developed. The Defence Ideas platform is open to all

personnel (military and civil servants) from across the JHC. Successful ideas will be funded up to the value of £5000 per idea for a one-off in-year expense that has no recurring or support costs.

All three Services, the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force, as well as Strategic Command, have on-going transformation programmes that have innovation at their heart. Be it programme ASTRA within the RAF, Project ARIEL in the Army or the JHub in Strategic Command, all are focused on long-term change programmes over several years. The JHC Challenge aims to release funds quicky, within three months, to enable ideas to be developed at pace.

progress it’s best two ideas each quarter. Those that are not progressed to the next stage remain in the pot for a chance in the next round.”

The Force Den is conducted like a mini Dragons Den. A panel of five review each idea based upon the information provided in the submission.

“The information entered onto the platform starts the basis for the final Business Case. This is added to throughout the process, therefore there is no need for any additional work – keeping it quick and hassle free” said WO1 Howgate. “This is all about developing ideas as quickly as possible.”

How will it work?

Each round will last for three months, with the window to submit your idea being in the first month. The idea should be added to the Defence Ideas platform and the proposal should include: your Unit, the idea, the problem to be solved, and an example of the benefits it will bring (where applicable).

Each unit has a Unit Evaluator whose role is to monitor Defence Ideas for submissions from their respective unit personnel in order to support and mentor them in developing their idea further. The Unit Evaluators will score the idea and grades them on merit.

They then progress their unit’s best two ideas forward to the ‘Force Den’.

“To make it fair”, said Flt Lt Ed Grace – SO3 Digital Innovation in HQ JHC, “each unit can

What if my idea is picked?

There is no additional work…. sort of. The Business Case will have been continuously developed throughout the process with support from your Unit Evaluator. Once agreed for funding, the HQ JHC team will arrange for your unit to purchase the required equipment etc to support the idea. The only thing left for you to do is enjoy seeing your idea come to life and, at an agreed point, write a short report on its success.

So…. What are you waiting for?

Use the QR code to access Defence Ideas. Create an account and once in, click on the JHC Crest…. Add your idea and don’t look back.

Following the Force Den, the idea is progressed to the JHC Den where it competes with the very best ideas from across the JHC. The JHC Den is conducted in the same format as the Force Dens, where the panel reduce 18 ideas down to 10 for immediate funding.

Again, those unsuccessful can remain on the platform for a chance to be considered in the next round.

Let’s get the ideas flowing and generate some positive change!

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HISTORY

TACTICAL SUPPLY WING CELEBRATES 50 YEARS In the winter of 1970 Wg Cdr Craven-Griffith saw his original mandate, to provide expeditionary logistics support to all RAF operations, come to fruition with the establishment of the Tactical Supply Wing (TSW).

Written By: Sgt Richie Kelly

T

he unit became operational the following year, with Craven-Griffiths appointed as the first CO. Having originally been established to support RAF operations in the Cold War, including support to Harrier aircraft in forward sites in Germany, the unit now sits within the JHC and has a more focused role of providing aviation fuel to battlefield helicopters. Since its inception, TSW has been continually deployed on operations including BANNER, CORPORATE, GRANBY, TELIC, HERRICK, NEWCOMBE and SHADER. Throughout this half-century of operational service, TSW personnel have developed a well-earned reputation for professionalism

and dependability; providing fuel where and when required, regardless of the obstacles or hardships.

On 21 Aug 21, TSW started its belated celebrations to mark the Wing’s 50th anniversary in the form of a joint ceremony with the Royal Air Force Servicing Commandos (RAFSC).

As part of the celebrations, two new memorials, commissioned by the RAFSC and TSW Association, were unveiled at the National Memorial Arboretum (NMA).

The RAFSC operated during World War Two and are recognised as the forebearers of the modern day TSW; the two organisations have enjoyed a close relationship for over 30 years, through a joint association. This affiliation is

reflected in the memorials, with each unit having their own memorial stone, but which sit side-by-side and linked at the base, in recognition of their shared heritage.

A highlight of the memorial unveiling was the attendance by two members of this elite group. Alan McQuillan and Des Spruce, who are both D-Day veterans’ and part of No 3210 Servicing Commando who landed in Normandy on the 9 June 1944. On their arrival to the memorials everyone stood and applauded as they took centre stage in a very moving and profound moment when the two gentlemen who fought together in WWII, greeted and shook hands with each other for the first time in over 50 years.

You could see the friendship and mutual respect in their

VIPs making their way to the memorial past TSW Guard of Honour.

eyes as they sat in their rightful places at the front.

In addition to the WWII veterans, the ceremony was also extremely well attended by past and present members of TSW, many of whom were veterans of countless conflicts over the last half century. The sense of camaraderie and the ‘TSW family’ spirit was palpable and made it a special day for all.

The unveiling included a number of speeches before leading up to the blessing and dedication of the memorials

by Rev Jim Horton, Association Chaplain, a former SAC on TSW. Once the unveiled, a number of wreaths were laid on behalf of the Association and TSW, with many guests coming forward with poppies, to pay their own respects and tributes.

The current CO of TSW, Wing Commander Jon Smith commented: “The unveiling of the joint RAF Servicing Commandos and Tactical Supply Wing memorial at the National Arboretum was a symbolical moment, which recognises the shared heritage and long-standing association between these two organisations. Such a place of remembrance and reflection will

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be hugely valued by all those with links to these units and is a very fitting way to mark the 50th anniversary of Tactical Supply Wing.”

To continue the celebrations of the day, the Association organised the President’s Annual Formal Dinner, also taking place at the NMA. With nearly 200 guests attending this formal event, there was much regaling of memories from past and present tours on TSW. Speeches from CO TSW

Escort Party escorting Mr Nick Brock carrying the RAFSC & TSW Association Standard. and Chairman of Association committee Mr John Andrews followed, with the Guest of

WWII Veterans Desmond (Des) Spruce (Right) and Alan McQuillan (Left) unveiling the memorials.

WWII Veterans Desmond (Des) Spruce (Left) and Alan McQuillan (Right) with family members.

Honour Mr Alan McQuillan delivering a brilliant speech with his tales from WWII, laced with humour and rightly received a standing ovation.

SUPPORT TO STRIKE The two-memorials side by side.

(L-R) WWII Veteran Mr Alan McQuillan, MP for Stafford and Stone Ms Theodora Clarke MP WWII Veterans Desmond (Des) Spruce (Right) with Wing Commander Jon Smith

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INNOVATION

WHO ARE 606 SQUADRON? There has been a significant changeover of personnel at Joint Helicopter Command (JHC) and RAF Benson during 2021.

Written By: Flt Lt Pete Legg

A

s the ‘not so-new’ Adjt on 606 (Chiltern) Sqn, I thought it was a perfect opportunity to provide a little insight and explain exactly who occupies the Waterfront of A-Hangar at RAF Benson and what we deliver to the JHC, the RAF and the Nation.

We are 606 (Chiltern) Sqn, a Royal Auxiliary Air Force (RAuxAF) Sqn. Firstly, it is important to understand that we are not a lodger unit at RAF Benson; we are an integral part of Team Benson and one of the Station deliverables to JHC. As a Sqn we are available to provide support to all JHC units activities.

We have a HQ Staff of 18, comprising of Regulars, Full

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Time Reserve Service (FTRS) and Additional Duties Contract (ADC) Service Personnel, who provide support to our >140 Part Time Volunteer Reserves (PTVR). Our PTVRs comprise of eight Trade Groups: Aero Space Operations Specialists (ASOS), Gen Tech (M), Gen Tech (E), Logs (Chef), Logs (MT), Logs (Support), PTI and RAF Regt.

With an equally diverse range in ranks, from Sqn Ldr to Airman.

Additionally, we have several Subject Matter Expert PTVR Officers who fill posts in both ground and flying appointments.

Our PTVRs commit to a minimum of 27 days service per year, with many committing much more.

We normally conduct training during the second full weekend of each calendar month, and we

support a plethora of exercises throughout the year. However, this is only the framework around which we base our activities; outside our routine training, 606 Sqn’s PTVRs would be better described as individual augmentees who provide much needed utility and support to JHC and Air Command.

We have recently returned from a major deployment Ex AUTUMN KITE, 15-19 Sep 21, at Spadeadam as part of Ex COBRA WARRIOR. A highly successful deployment brought together just under 100 Service Personnel and involved 606 Sqn Reserves working with catering training staff from 504 Sqn and Reserves from 502 (Ulster) Sqn, Aldergrove (RAFP, Logs (MT), Logs (Chef)).

Together we managed to

achieve significant collective training while demonstrating the individual capabilities that 606 Sqn can bring to a JHF deployment.

Our PTVRs are an eclectic mix of people with ‘day jobs’ including airline pilot, airline cabin crew, bankers, barristers, Cabinet Office civil servant, chef, City workers (London Square Mile), consultants, fitness instructors, full-time mums, a garage owner, managing directors, police officers, scientists, a student, a teacher - you name an occupation and we probably have one! In my relatively short time on 606 Sqn I have been impressed greatly by the enthusiasm and motivation of our PTVRs. When I advertise tasks and mobilisation opportunities

on Defence Connect, within minutes I receive e-mails from our PTVRs volunteering for the placement.

Last year our budget from JHC was able to provide funding for 4,440 Reserve Service Days (RSDs). When a PTVR is mobilised, there is separate funding stream from Air Cmd. At the end of Financial Year 20/21 our PTVRs had completed over 8,200 days comprised of mobilisations and RSDs (nearly twice our allocated RSDs). An impressive achievement and all delivered within Covid guidelines. This demonstrates the professional dedication and sense of worth our PTVRs have.

Utility comes in many forms, over the last year 606 Sqn delivered 35 mobilisations, 25 of which were for Op RESCRIPT. The other ten fulfilled the Sqn’s commitments to Ops TORAL, NEWCOMBE, SHADER, BFSAI (Falkland Islands) and several UK backfills. At the height of the pandemic, when units were stretched and suffering with high numbers of isolating personnel, 606 Sqn had over a third of its PTVRs committed to either mobilisations or RSDs. Utilising RSDs at RAF Benson we have been able to provide support to 28 Sqn, 33 Sqn, 230 Sqn, FP Training Flt, General Engineering Flt, Joint Helicopter Support Sqn, MT, Supply and Stn Ops. Op RESCRIPT was by far the biggest area of activity over the past year, quickly mobilising 14

personnel to be at readiness to provide mobile testing.

During the readiness period, we were able to support RAF Benson by utilising PTVRs who were mobilised and awaiting deployment.

For example, a stretched Puma Force Ops team were augmented by 606 ASOS who quickly embedded into the working cycles of the Ops team and 606 assistance to ATC proved so effective that, after engagement with Battlespace Management (BM) HQ, Reservist personnel were conducting roles in ATC previously out of scope. RAF Benson Logs Sqn, decimated by Op deployments and COVID isolations, were backfilled, resulting in several new and creative efficiency initiatives, such as multi-role activity to maximise the utility of available personnel.

606 Sqn personnel were so embedded into JHC activity, at one point, that the Op RESCRIPT aircraft deployment to Scotland was facilitated by Reservists commanding the ASOS and MT support concurrently. As the numbers of isolating personnel at RAF Benson grew, a welfare team was established to provide essential shopping, catering and support; 606 Personnel stepped in to manage and deliver the welfare capability.

Further Op RESCRIPT support consisted of providing Avn

Supporting Op RESCRIPT, Cpl Mark Jenkinson Reservist ASOS who is also a procurement specialist for a local authority and SAC Saleem Patel Reservist Logs (MT) is also an optician.

Liaison Officers to SJC, delivering SME advice to Military Aid to Civil Authorities (MACA) planning, preventing a further reduction in aviators from the front-line Sqns. Ten of our RAF Regt personnel quickly mobilised to support II Sqn RAF Regt on Project ERASMUS. As the requirement reduced, these personnel were utilised for Station guard, augmenting the dwindling Guard Force before redeploying and joining other Reservists delivering mobile COVID testing.

provided a 1400 tests/week facility. Set up in February and resourced entirely from 606 Sqn personnel, the site provided an assured delivery of testing that assisted JHC to maintain its commitment to Defence.

Continued ownership, review and development by 606 of the capability ensured that at the end of the financial year, the Sqn handed over to RAF Regular personnel an efficient facility that received 2* HQ recognition for its productivity and efficient management.

During the summer months, 606 Sqn, supported by Reservists from RAF Brize Norton, established self-sufficient COVID testing teams operating throughout the South East of the Country. Delivering over 7500 tests across twelve locations. These teams were at the forefront of public interest at a very dynamic stage of the pandemic. All operated to a professional standard that demonstrated to the public the true value, ability and high quality of RAF Reserves, winning over many civilian customers and upholding the good name of the RAF during a very challenging time.

Under Reserve Force 30 we can expect to continue to deliver utility in support of JHC and Air for many years to come.

Indeed, I foresee an increase in demand from our PTVRs. My final thought - when you next encounter a LAC, SAC or a Cpl that looks somewhat older than you expect you will probably find that they are a PTVR from one of over 30 RAuxAF units spread across 21 RAF Stations within the UK.

Recognising the COVID Testing experience within 606, JHC tasked the Sqn to plan, establish and deliver an Asymptomatic Testing Site at RAF Benson. Taking the lessons and processes learned, the Sqn

If you require more information about Reserve Opportunities on 606 Sqn please contact: Sgt Phil Moses Moses, Philip.

Moses730@mod.gov.uk or 01491 827231.

If you require more information about Reserve Support from 606 Sqn please contact: OC 606 Sqn, Sqn Ldr AR Bucknell, Andrew.Bucknell467@ mod.gov.uk or 01491 827230.

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PURPOSE

EX SPRING STORM This spring saw the deployment of the Aviation Task Force 1 (ATF-1) to Estonia to support Exercise SPRING STORM 21.

Written By: Captain Iain Maclennan

T

he six-week tour in the Baltics was led by soldiers from 4 Regiment Army Air Corps (4 A AC), supported by 664 Sqn (4 A AC) and 661 Sqn (1 A AC).

A complicated self-deployment of Wildcat and Apache helicopters across Europe saw transits through France, Netherlands, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. This was reinforced through a comprehensive logistical and equipment support chain, enabling and maintaining the aircraft through their rapid multi day advance across Europe.

Once established in country, both the Wildcat and Apache began operating alongside the Estonian Defence Force, providing a credible deterrence and support to NATO partners in the region. Exercise activity saw demanding sorties being conducted in the Estonian Central Training Area, with Attack Reconnaissance Teaming of Wildcat and Apache being used to great effect.

Further integration of foreign partners saw sorties utilising Italian F35 fast jets and US

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Apache and Black Hawk. Live firing opportunities at Rutja sea range achieved both Wildcat 7.62mm and Apache 30mm and the first Estonian Hellfire range was proven. Significant training objectives were achieved during this shoot, exercising Wildcat-Apache laser designation missile handover and Apache-Apache remote missile designation.

Surprisingly, poor weather conditions provided challenging training for the

PEOPLE

RAF BENSON GOLF About 3 years ago I had fell in love with golf after suffering a back injury which restricted me from any high-impact activities.

Written By: SAC Jack Martin

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previously had a passion for football, but I have now turned to golf; it allows me to enjoy the outdoors and enjoy the stunning views of courses all over the country.

aircrew and the ground elements of the ATF-1 found equal challenge out in the field, operating forward alongside the 1st Estonian Brigade. A dynamic adversarial force gave good opportunity for the ATF to flex its muscle and demonstrate the effective combat power of its attack and recce helicopters.

Substantial equipment support was provided from REME personnel deployed on both aircraft types, working through multiple unscheduled maintenance issues to provide a solid flying rate to the exercise.

Opportunities in nearby Baltic states also provided excellent outreach to the local populace, with school liaison events in Latvia and successful support to an event aimed at furthering women in leadership roles. 30mm live firing was also conducted in Latvia alongside a deep strike mission into Lithuania. Against the backdrop of Covid-19, the exercise demonstrated the capability of ATF-1 to deploy, conduct activity in a constrained, new and complex environment then recover back home across Europe, ready for the next mission.

different clubs including: Royal Ascot, Henley GC, Drayton, Hadden Hill, Goring, Streatley plus many more.

Having briefly played golf as a child with my father for all of a few years, I now love every second that I get to enjoy the sport, even in the tough conditions, the rain, wind and cold. Golf is not a sport where perfection is easily achieved, instead you will always be chasing excellence, and if anyone reading this plays golf then you will understand!

It can be very frustrating at times, or all the time.

My most memorable experience so far was being privileged to attend the RAF Benson v US Air Force tournament held at RAF Lakenheath. Arriving on a US Air Base was eye-opening.

I found it enlightening to see how different countries look after their service personnel and I was amazed by the facilities they had at their disposal, including superstores, fuel garages, car showrooms and even a golf course with a clubhouse.

Golf has been around for many years and can be a traditional sport, but there are a lot of new, young golfers coming through. Modern technology and the lenience of clothing rules and the technology of equipment will draw younger people in. Chief Technician Fryatt has led the way within RAF Benson’s golf team, he even organises a monthly competition. I have greatly enjoyed all that I have been involved in, including travelling to

The structure of the Benson vs USAF matches consisted of Best Ball, Duo Match Play and Solo Matchplay. The team that accumulated the most wins, individually or duos, would be crowned the Woodruff Trophy Champions. I managed to win all my games, inclusive of the duos and individual matches, against some fierce competition, however, as a team effort, we were pipped to the post and the US Air Force won.

Until next year…

Badgemore Park, Henley.

The Springs Golf Club.

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INTEGRATION

EX CHINTHE RISE ABOARD HMS PRINCE OF WALES During Jun 21, 656 Squadron AAC embarked three Apache AH1 aboard HMS Prince of Wales (PWLS).

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he aim was to sustain and develop a very high readiness maritime capability.

The Squadron joined the ship alongside the Princess Royal jetty in Portsmouth, with a flight deck the size of three football pitches, the vessel dwarfed everything else in the harbour.

Many scoffed “how hard can it be to land on that?” As it turned out, landing was the easy part! There are numerous other challenges to overcome when integrating Attack Aviation into a new warship.

Soon after, HMS PWLS sailed into the Southwest Approaches for sea trials and operational workups. Apart from a few weeks in the North Sea in the

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previous two weeks, this was the first time the ship had been at sea for over a year.

Once out of the harbour she went straight into training under the direction of Fleet Operational Sea Training (FOST), the seafaring equivalent of Army Aviation Standards.

This included live Phalanx firing, emergency handling, damage control exercises, surface warfare scenarios and everything else required of an operational warship. Throughout the exercise 26% of planned aviation sorties were cancelled due to ship maintenance or FOST serials. Maritime aviation isn’t as simple as it looks!

It took time to learn how to navigate a 280-metre-long,

70-metre-wide, with more than five decks, aircraft carrier without getting lost. 656 were, in an irony not missed by an Army squadron, the first aviation unit ever to embark aboard the Navy’s newest aircraft carrier. Moreover, most of the ship’s company were junior sailors who had also never been to sea before on a Queen Elizabeth Class ship. It wasn’t just the Army who were scrambling to find their sea legs and ‘Jackspeak’ handbook in the first few days!

Warship training requirements left precious flying windows outside of sea trials. In addition, HMS PWLS was also tasked to be the UK flagship for the G7 conference in Cornwall.

As part of the event, the ship hosted The First Sea Lord, foreign diplomats and even provided a ‘sail past’ for US President, Joe Biden, and UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson.

To launch aviation at sea, a Ship Helicopter Operating Limit (SHOL) is required. A SHOL is a heading into wind, above a minimum speed, that gives enough performance for a helicopter to take off safely.

PEOPLE

This requires time, space and coordination with both the ship’s company and other marine traffic. It takes a lot of space to start and stop a 65,000-tonne vessel. SHOLs couldn’t always be achieved if other training was happening concurrently, such as live firing, or the distance wasn’t available in the designated sea ranges to attain and maintain a SHOL.

1AvnX (Attack) SFI, refreshers and maritime qualification training was flown at every available opportunity. Apache shared the flight deck with F35, Merlin, Dauphin and Wildcat. Multi type flight deck operations, at night, on a moving aircraft carrier undoubtably focusses the mind. Turns out it can be quite tricky to land on that...

Whilst Jun 21 was hot, clear and sunny on the mainland the weather over the ‘ogin’ was sometimes atrocious.

Approximately 30% of the planned sorties were lost to unsuitable weather, with days of persistent low cloud and sea fog. Despite the ship sometimes manoeuvring the length of the South West to find a suitable flying window, aviation was often elusive. All was not lost as no flying meant the ability to sample the fantastic hospitality of the ship’s company. “Saturday night at sea” is a tradition the Navy appeared very well versed in hosting. That said, the 0600 wake up whistle that piped every day, to every cabin, was never welcomed on a Sunday!

Despite all the challenges, 656 Squadron achieved eight maritime refreshers, two day-only refreshers, one Deck Landing Qualification (DLQ), six DLQ day sorties for new aircrew and two combat ready checks. Maritime operations are incredibly challenging. This is compounded with Apache, that was not initially designed for maritime operations, on a warship still in its infancy.

Ex CHINTHE RISE tested the pilots, signallers, ground crew and engineers to deliver Attack capability at sea. 656 Squadron is looking forward to refining these capabilities on the next maritime embarkation.

The Squadron never forgot the reason for embarkation was to fly. Augmented by the Army Aviation Standards and the

E-SPORTS E-Sports (or electronic sports) is a term used to describe competitive video gaming. It differs from standard video gaming in that eSports are competitive (human-vs-human) and usually have an engaging spectator element to them, like traditional sports would.

Written By: SAC Jamie Griffith

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his year has been an extremely exciting one for the development of eSports within the RAF, and for me as a representative.

Last December I competed in the very first transatlantic “Call of Duty Endowment Bowl”; a tournament hosted

by Activision and contested by all eight of the UK and US’s military forces. The RAF had great success, beating all the UK’s forces by a large margin, and narrowly being defeated in a tiebreaker final against the US Space Force.

Since then, competition has not slowed down. I have competed in both military and civilian competitions multiple times, every week, all year. As a result, I was invited as a Captain to the biggest Warzone tournament of the year, the “World Series of Warzone”. Competing against the very best players in the world, I managed to place in the top 20 players out of 150.

The RAF have recently received another invitation from Activision to compete in this year’s “CODE Bowl”. With COVID restrictions finally easing, we will fly out to New York on 10 Dec 21 to compete against all UK and US Forces once again. Attending this high-profile event in-person will be the first of its kind for the UK Armed Forces

within eSports and I am sure it will not be the last.

It continues to be a pleasure to represent the RAF in such prestigious events and I believe it is a sign of what is to come for eSports within the service. With the development of eSports facilities on stations across the UK, the RAF is taking a lead role in continuing to combat isolation and provide access technology that many would not have thought to try previously. Here at RAF Benson, we are in the process of setting up our own facility and aim to have this open in the coming months. This will provide personnel with another place to spend their free time and to socialise with others, all while enjoying the games they love.

If you would like to find out more information about getting involved with eSports in the RAF get in touch via the RAF Video Gaming and Esports Association SharePoint Page

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PURPOSE

847 NAS’S SCOTTISH SUMMER TOUR The ‘wings’ of the Royal Marines undertook live firing in Scotland amid their first taste of operating from the Navy’s new carriers.

Written By: Lt Dave Lewis RM

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hree Commando Wildcats from 847 Naval Air Squadron (NAS), based at RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset, decamped to Scotland for training, at sea and ashore, to hone their unique skills on Ex JOINT WARRIOR and Ex TERMINAL STRIKE. The Squadron performs a myriad of duties, from acting as the ‘flying eyes’ of Royal Marines on the ground, to providing them with Close Air Support, transportation of troops and equipment, to calling in air and naval gunfire strikes.

First the aircrew had to get used to safely taking-off from, and landing on, HMS Prince of Wales’ huge flight deck. Qualifying/re-qualifying the aircrew fell to training officer Lieutenant Paul Smalley, 847’s only Qualified Helicopter Instructor (QHI).

“It was challenging to train all the crews for their deck landings: eight during the day, eight at night and another eight landings using night vision for each pilot. But with a record number of deck landings achieved in such a short space of time, the whole detachment was trained and ready to fight in no time.”

So, what is it like taking off from Britain’s biggest warship at night?

“It was dark. That’s the only word that came to mind as I pulled the collective and lifted from HMS Prince of Wales,” said Lieutenant Josh

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Terry, who’s now qualified for operations at sea.

Wildcat pilot Captain David Lewis RM added: “The sheer size of the vessel was impressive, but with the help of the ships company to point us in the right direction, the Squadron found its feet and got to work.”

Chief Petty Officer Stuart Connell, one of the three Watch Chiefs, oversaw roundthe-clock engineering efforts to meet the demanding exercise programme and training schedule. “The ship was extremely welcoming and supportive, which helped lift morale when things didn’t go to plan,” he said.

847’s Logistics Officer Lieutenant Ben Scott added: “The exercise had many ups and downs which were a huge challenge to deal with.

Ensuring the squadron had its aircraft, personnel and engineering support at the right place and time was a very rewarding experience.”

The storm of steel continued as Ex JOINT WARRIOR ended and 847 remained in Scotland for its biannual live shoot on the ranges near Lossiemouth, Ex TERMINAL STRIKE. The exercise serves to maintain the skills of the UK’s Joint Terminal Aircraft Controllers (JTACs) – personnel from all three Services who are responsible for coordinating firepower from the air. This involves managing helicopters and fast jets ‘in the stack ’, culminating with the ‘sharp end’ – weapons on target.

The squadron’s Commanding and Executive Officers, Majors Chris Eden and Rich Moore, were involved in the ‘business end’ of the exercise: bringing fire and fury down on the Scottish ranges, directing the guns of a Dutch warship.

847 has two weapons in its arsenal: the 7.62mm GPMG and the .50 Cal M3M. The shoots received a 100 per cent pass – not just for their marksmanship but also for the safety and ground organisational work of Petty Officer (Aircrewman) Arron Tobin.

“With a Commando Wildcat flown from a Queen Elizabethclass carrier, calling in guns from an allied Dutch ship, all choreographed by the Task Group HQ embarked in Albion, this was 847’s role in Ex JOINT WARRIOR at its finest.”

Not only can the Commando Wildcat be used for close air support, 847 is rumoured to be the only Squadron in the country which is fully operational for Forward Air Controller (Airborne) (FAC(A)) operations.

This is where service and family integration came into its own; while Captain Tom Arkell RM was down in the weeds in a Commando Wildcat calling in attacks, an RAF FGR4 Typhoon from Lossiemouth was overhead at 10,000 feet dropping simulated Paveway IV bombs and launching Brimstone missiles.

“It is a true honour to see the realisation and synergy of joint fires,” said Tom. “It’s been a great month for me with two life milestones achieved: getting married and conducting airborne forward air control with a Typhoon.”

Overall, the two exercises underlined the utility of the Commando Wildcat to Littoral Strike and the importance of the men and women responsible who make such a variety of missions possible.

PURPOSE

WATCHKEEPER THE ROAD TO READINESS The world is continually evolving with the fast-paced race for technological advancements in both the military and civilian sectors.

Written By: Gnr Frewen 47 Regt RA

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aintaining a strong structure and ethos around training is important for the aviators of the Watchkeeper, a Remotely Piloted Air System (RPAS), as they consistently seek to improve and develop.

This was reiterated in the Integrated Review (2021), which highlighted the Watchkeeper RPAS as an integral part of the British Army’s ‘Future Soldier’ Programme.

The Watchkeeper Force needs to be ready for any given task, from modern warfighting to providing Military Aid to Civilian Authorities (MACA).

A recent example of this was the first UK Operational deployment for Watchkeeper during Op DEVERAN. This saw the system deploy to Lydd Airport to support HM Coastguard and Border Force interdict migrants attempting to cross the English Channel. To guarantee that Watchkeeper can respond to a variety of tasks, the ‘Road to Readiness’ for the aviators of the 47th Regiment Royal Artillery is all encompassing and rigorous, yet adaptable.

Following a successful completion of Ex ATHENA REBUS in Cyprus, which is the Watchkeeper Regiment’s overseas assured flying location and allows for effective technical training in all Watchkeeper related trades, the next step for 57th (Bhurtpore) Battery was to add in tactical elements. For the Battery, this included Ex BHURTPORE SEPOY and Ex FLYING BURAJA, Battery (SubUnit) Level Training (CT(A)) and Regimental (Unit) Level training (CT(C)) exercises respectively.

Physical training was increased to prepare the Battery’s personnel for the multiple upcoming exercises and the potential for operational deployment. Initially, online delivery of physical training was vital to maintaining a responsible and COVID-safe working environment for the soldiers. However, with the implementation of social distancing and other protective measures, normal physical training shortly resumed to safely allow for loaded marches, outdoor circuits and the new Role Fitness Test (RFT) training.

Ex BHURTPORE SEPOY was a critical part of training, focussing on refreshing basic soldiering skills. A two-week programme was created to provide outdoor lessons and briefs, ensuring a smooth deployment on to the exercise.

This consisted of navigation, Battlefield Casualty Drills, patrols, fieldcraft and more, ensuring a smooth and safe deployment onto the exercise.

The exercise scenario was based around an armed group in Salisbury Plain Training Area (SPTA), to provide a suitable context within which to enable training. Initially, troops were based out of a harbour location where fighting and recce patrols quickly became the norm. Before long, the troops established a Forward Operating Base, layering in urban complexities. The Exercise culminated in a Companysized deliberate attack.

Overall, the exercise sharpened the Battery’s basic soldiering skills and built a strong foundation for further training.

LBdr Gibson (Section 2IC) summed up the exercise: “It was good to get back out on exercise with the troops after such a long time off from these types of events. The exercise was well resourced, testing each member of the Battery, making it the highlight of our road to readiness.”

Following Ex BHURTPORE SEPOY, the Battery deployed onto Ex FLYING BURAJA; designed to further test concurrent activities, the operation of Watchkeeper and the tactical elements previously exercised, in an all-encompassing live-virtual exercise. The scenario saw the sub-unit deploy under the Regimental Command Post as the forward deployed task lines of Watchkeeper supporting a Divisional Battle. New Recce concepts were tested, pushing out far beyond SPTA to better understand how Watchkeeper can operate from large, builtup, and more populated areas.

Lt McIntyre, the Battery’s Recce Officer, commented: “It was an excellent opportunity for us to test new concepts and

update the Recce doctrine at 47 Regt RA. We spent a week pushing out to locations, such as Bath Racecourse and the Top Gear Racetrack in Swindon, looking for places we could theoretically operate a Watchkeeper subunit. This proved our ability to move quickly across a battlefield and sustain the resource demands of a RPAS capability as a Regiment.”

Although the flying element was simulated utilising the Virtual Battlefield Simulator within the training facility at Larkhill, the exercise was no less intense, and the Battery was responsible for three Task-Lines. Everyone, from the air system operators to logisticians, were tested on Ex FLYING BURAJA. These exercises, in addition to the Watchkeeper trade training previously conducted, meant that the Battery was fully prepared to assume readiness.

57th (Bhurtpore) Battery Royal Artillery is now excited to be at Readiness and stands ready to deploy wherever and whenever asked.

LANDING ZONE / ISSUE 3, 2021 27

PEOPLE

EXERCISE NOCTEM WARRIOR DAY

IN THE LIFE OF A STUDENT 28 Sqn, based at RAF Benson, recently deployed on Ex NOCTEM WARRIOR 21.

Written By: Flt Lt Rob Humpston

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aking place in the desert of California, they completed various training serials to gain their Environmental Qualification (EQ) for desert flying, more commonly known as dust landing training.

A day at Naval Air Facility El Centro (NAFEC) begins in the same reliable way each day. At 0800, the US National Anthem sounds, the flag is raised at the centre of base, and anyone lucky enough to be outside at that time stands for a full minute to attention, embracing the morning sun as it too welcomes the day.

Once the anthem concludes, students who have more wisely sheltered in their bungalows emerge and make their way to the first event of the day, Heat Acclimatisation Training (HAT). HAT takes place during

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the first seven days following arrival at NAFEC, and consists, due to the +35°C heat at this time of the morning, of walking leisurely laps of a 400m running track for a set period. Despite the sun having only been up for a few hours, walking a casual pace is still more than enough to thoroughly moisten the unacclimatised student, and the HAT invariably concludes with a return procession to the bungalows for the first of multiple showers of the day.

Having successfully endured the rigours of approximately six laps of a track, the day then proceeds at a steady pace.

The flying programme blends day into night flying to make the most of the engineering availability each day, and to best suit the requirements of the training syllabus.

Hence, the first sortie of the day

usually doesn’t lift until the afternoon, giving plenty of time to visit the gym, or much more desirably, to visit the pool at 1100. Lane swimming in the Olympic-sized outdoor pool is available during the week for two hours a day and runs pleasantly straight into lunchtime. Those lucky enough to have no flying planned on a Thursday can make the most of it by returning to the pool at 1300, to enjoy the availability of the water slides and allowing for some much less productive phys time.

Those who are flying however, head into work after lunch to begin the process of being bemused by US Airspace and

Mapping, wondering what time they are actually lifting, and generally shuffling a preflight brief into a semblance of order. The EQ being obtained by 28 Sqn students is completed over two flights, one day and one night. Both flights involve the departure from NAFEC, and a short, ten-minute transit paralleling the Mexican border out to the desert proper, leaving the green oasis of irrigated fields that surround El Centro behind.

Once a landing site has been reached, students practice a number of techniques to enable a safe landing at a dusty site. Those techniques consist in broad terms, of engaging the Native Modes of the aircraft (think autopilot) at correct distances from the landing site whilst wrestling the aircraft onto the correct inbound GPS track.

This results, after a not insignificant amount of negotiation with the flying controls, in bringing the aircraft to a hover 15-foot above the ground with the dust cloud obscuring vision all around.

The Crewmen, having kept the front informed of the forming dust and marshalling the aircraft to the correct point, can then finally patter the aircraft onto the surface.

Putting the flying part of being a student pilot aside, the desert environment offers some interesting challenges not present in the UK. By far the most noticeable of these is, of course, the heat with the aircraft easily reaching +50°C sat in the sun even before the flight begins. Starting the Chinook becomes a race to get the rotors turning as fast as possible to replace the stifling air that has built up inside.

Before getting to this point however, there is the pleasant task of checking the cockpit

and cabin for spiders, snakes, and other fauna of an equally agreeable nature which may have chosen to claim the Chinook overnight. Quite

what the actions would be if a snake was discovered in the cockpit most students hope never to find out.

Having returned triumphantly from a flight, almost certainly

a measurable amount lighter in sweat, there is only one destination for the

decompressing student, the Sundowners Club also known as the Mirage.

Here, the final hours of the day can be whiled away with a drink, a game of

pool (of the dry green felted variety this time), and an attempt at shuffleboard. This is a game new to almost all students, that consists of a long sand-dusted wooden lane and a number of scoring zones at each end.

Teams take turns to slide heavy discs over the sand, aiming for their discs to stop in the scoring zones or knock opposing discs off the board; sand curling, if you will.

And that wraps up a working day of a 28 Sqn student on Ex NOCTEM WARRIOR. The weekends are a different matter, involving a swift two-hour drive down the i8 to San Diego, followed by Go Karting, sand (less sand), sea, sun (also significantly less sun - a welcome change), and a trawl down the seafront bars serving an admirable array of cocktails. But that could be an article in itself.

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PURPOSE

132 AVIATION SUPPLY

SQUADRON RLC As the world tries to regain to a state of normality after lockdown, 132 Squadron have undergone a busy and eventful period.

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he Squadron has continued to support the flying requirements of 1 Aviation Brigade Combat Team (1 Avn BCT), providing first class logistical support to deployments and exercises, both at home and abroad, whilst continuing to carry out its own internal training.

the recovery of all remaining aviation equipment support assets held under the control of 29 Flight AAC. These assets have continuously provided medevac assistance to all exercising troop within BATUS training area for the past 50 years.

The drawdown of capability saw the removal of all existing airframes from BATUS (Gazelle) for redeployment to NI. Some 1,300 items remained on Station awaiting the confirmation that 29 Flight would remain dormant due to the limitations of training brought on by the ongoing

Bn Cricket Match. discuss the differences and similarities between Army and civilian sector leadership. A great day was enjoyed by all.

Pte Koroibanuve Coastline charity walk for SSAFA.

Ex PINION OMAN freight processing.

Most recently, members of the Squadron deployed on Ex PINION OMAN in support of 1 Avn BCT in Oman. This was a great opportunity for the team, after such a restricted movement period due to COVID. Despite the difficulties caused by the ongoing pandemic, all personnel who deployed arrived safely and in good spirits. The detachment is now fully settled into the Ex and delivering in support of all flying activity.

During Jul 21, a three-man team from 132 Squadron deployed to BATUS, Canada, to commence

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SSM Fisher Race to the Stones ultramarathon .

COVID pandemic. It was 132 Squadron’s responsibility to provide professional logistic support, ensuring that all MOD assets were accounted for, while also consulting with the Delivery Team to enable their relocation.

The team worked incredibly hard to complete the task and are a true credit to the Sqn. Aug 21 saw the soldiers from the Sqn

Sqn leadership day. design and run a very successful two-day leadership package.

External speakers from DHL, Mauldon’s Brewery and Plant Futures also attended the event to discuss the leadership challenges and requirements within their civilian workplaces.

This allowed the soldiers to

Looking forward, Ex CLOCKWORK is a large-scale aviation exercise taking place in Norway at the start of 2022.

Although the exercise is still several months away work has already begun to make sure the Sqn is prepared well in advance in order to deploy soldiers onto their cold weather survival courses. No doubt it will a challenging but rewarding exercise.

It’s not all work though! An unseasonably hot day at the end of September saw the inaugural Battalion Officers and Seniors versus Juniors cricket match.

A hard-won battle, with the match finishing on 92 runs each after 100 balls. A ‘Super Over’ was required to determine the true victors of the match which saw the Juniors winning the afternoon by bowling out the RSM. Some other great achievements that personnel from the Sqn participated in include the London Marathon, the ‘Race to the Stones’ 100km ultra marathon and a walk around the Norfolk and Suffolk coastline, which is some 200miles all in aid of raising money for SSAFA.

PEOPLE

LANDING ZONE READERSHIP Written By: By Flt Lt Gemma Nagi

AS THE EDITOR OF THE MAGAZINE IT IS DIFFICULT TO GAUGE AND QUANTIFY THE READERSHIP CIRCULATION OF THIS PUBLICATION. IF YOU HAVE READ THIS MAGAZINE, PLEASE SCAN THE QR CODE BELOW. AS A REWARD FOR HELPING TO PROVIDE ME WITH FEEDBACK I HAVE HIDDEN A SURPRISE THAT I HOPE YOU WILL ENJOY!

Have your say!

I would like to hear from you, your stories, anecdotes, and activities.

If you would like to write an article, please speak with your Line Manager or Chain of Command first. You should also send accompanying photos with your article.

Photos should be 300 dpi and don’t forget, they must be copyright, OPSEC and PERSEC cleared! Consent will also be assumed to have been granted by individuals whose faces are shown in photographs or who are specifically named/quoted.

Consider the Landing Zone Magazine as ‘public’ – families, wider Defence,

potential recruits, veterans and members of the public all read the Landing Zone.

Therefore, articles should be written for a broad audience and in plain English, so avoid jargon and spell out all acronyms.

Please send your submissions to the editor, the contact email address and deadline for the next Issue are on Page 4.

LANDING ZONE / ISSUE 3, 2021 31

PEOPLE

CLAY TARGET SHOOTING

IN THE JHC SIGHTS Maj Dave Barbieri was assigned into JHC Support Branch earlier this year; as well as being appointed SO2 Equipment Support Ground, he has an impressive shooting portfolio to boot.

Written By: Maj Dave Barbieri

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hooting for the Army Clay Target Team for just short of ten years, he has been the Captain of the REME Clay Shooting Team and is now the Secretary of the REME Rifle Association. Additionally, he runs the Army’s largest Clay shoot held at Bramley Training Area and has participated in overseas shoots with the Army

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four times, most notably, a joint REME and AAC Tour of Cyprus.

Maj Barbieri, although still a keen shot, has been focusing more recently on his Clay Shooting Coaching development. Already a level two English Sporting Coach, he has passed the level two Skeet instructors’ course this year. This is a tough pass-

or fail-course, his success has made him one of very few Skeet Coaches in the Services.

The course was conducted on Sywell Airfield, near Northampton. It is broken into two parts, a one-day coach development workshop, highlighting areas to work on and improve before attending the main course four months later. The second part of the course is three days long; starting with a ‘remind and revise’ then the students get to practice their coaching skills on day two, ranging from novice to county standard. The Skeet instructors’ course culminates with three assessments on the final day which has been likened to doing three

driving tests back to back!

2021 has been a busy year for Maj Barbieri, who has shot for the Army in the Inter-Services League against the Royal Navy and RAF. He has also competed against the Police, Fire Brigade and Prison Service in shoots.

He has run the Bramley Clay Club twice monthly, on Sundays, as well as the Army Target Shooting Club (ATSC) Clay Target events, shoots for cadet units, the REME Championships, the RLC championships, and the CSS championships.

His proudest shooting moments this year, have been witnessing his son (who he also coaches) winning the Wiltshire Olympic Skeet County Championships and more recently, seeing the

REME Team romp to victory at the Army Championships held at Barbury Castle. REME took the individual win, all the Jewels (first, second and third) as well winning the Inter-Corps competition convincingly. Maj Barbieri has enjoyed coaching for many years

and has the humility to admit that he is yet to meet anyone who is as bad as he was when he first started. He says anybody can take up clay shooting and get to Army standard if they have the drive and determination to keep improving.

HOW DO YOU START SHOOTING OR GET INVOLVED? Each Corps has a Team Captain who will be able to help you get started the main ones are below, also the ATSC will take people from Beginner level: ATSC CT RICHARD.CANN375@mod.gov.uk Army Air Corps Billy.Millar727@mod.gov.uk RA Richard.Morris173@mod.gov.uk REME Peter.Meager849@mod.gov.uk RLC Christopher.Pye428@mod.gov.uk AGC Jason.Wright495@mod.gov.uk

If you would like to shoot at Bramley on the second or fourth Sunday of the month contact Maj Barbieri david. barbieri179@mod.gov.uk. The club has full civilian insurance so you could bring family members as well.

There is a club at the old bomb dump Middle Wallop which is civilian run. Contact Steve Clark on 07796 405414 for more details.

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HISTORY

50 YEARS OF PUMA Written By: Flt Lt T J Mullins

1971-1981.

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s we reflect upon the first decade of the Puma’s history one would expect a nostalgic experience, but the stories shared by those of the time or captured in the photograph albums offer a stirring similarity to the operating routine, sense of occasion and esprit de corps of the Force today. It could be training with the British Army on Salisbury Plain, operations in the Caribbean, deployed as 1563 Flight, NATO Tiger Meets or the underslung rescue of a heifer! Stories such as these are not confined to the early history, they also feature in the recent memory of 33 Sqn and 230 Sqn of today. Equally familiar were the humorous moments at the expense of the wet-behind-the-ears junior pilot’s misfortune, or the youthful mischievous activity out of the Master Aircrew’s sight, beautifully recorded in Sqn Line Books.

Puma as a machine was first conceived in 1967. France and the United Kingdom reached a bi-lateral agreement over a joint helicopter development program, in which their two industries would create three rotary types. Sud-Aviation in France had developed its SA300 design as a medium transport helicopter in 1965, and this formed the basis of the SA330 Puma, to be built on production lines in France (by Sud-Aviation and Aerospatiale) from 1970 and the UK (by Westlands).

An SA330 was delivered to the UK in 1968 and Westlands subsequently built 48 to Puma HC Mk 1 standard, flying its initial example for the first time on 25 Nov 70.

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The type entered service with 33 Sqn in Jun 71, commanded

by Wg Cdr Fred Hoskins, who was an aircraft apprentice prior to commissioning as a pilot in 1951. Wg Cdr Hoskins flew Hornets in the Far East with 33 Sqn, eventually returning as the CO. In Jan 72, 230 Sqn were equipped with the latest helicopters, both squadrons operating from RAF Odiham.

Soon, the milestones began and on 8 Feb 74 Flt Lt Dick Langworthy was the first to log 1000hrs flying Puma, in just over two and a half years since the aircraft had entered service.

In 1975 Pumas were deployed on Operations in Belize, as 1563 Flight at Belize International Airport, Ladyville.

They supported the British Army deter aggression from neighbouring countries (notably Guatemala, during its civil war), provided a Search and Rescue (SAR) capability and supported jungle training.

At the time, SAR was a new capability for the Pumas, though in 1976 the Force was abundantly praised following the successful rescue of a Harrier pilot after they ejected following a bird strike. Chief Tech Phil Smith recalls his time in Belize: “I was too young to go to Northern Ireland, so my Chief [Technician] at the time got me out to Belize. We used to take the Pumas out in a Hercules; to fit them in the tail boom, gearbox and rotor used to come off, as well as the main head, gearbox and sponsons it was a very tight fit! Though we soon got it down to a fine art so that we were able to have two weeks relaxing on the Cayman Islands, it was brilliant.

We would get dropped off by Puma for BBQs on the beach.”

A small detachment of Pumas was also stationed at RAF Aldergrove, Northern Ireland.

One helicopter was galvanized into action by the Royal Green Jackets to rescue a cow belonging to a Mr Cooney.

The cow was successfully lifted safely from the sticky mud, which provided a welcome change to the usual Northern Ireland routine. Long Course 8 were still practicing a CSAR (cow) capability even in 2020!

NATO Tiger Meets were a key feature of the battle rhythm in the first decade of Puma Service as they are now, as were training exercises in support of the Army. The following

extract seems quintessentially insightful of a normal day on the Puma Force five decades ago, and it’s refreshing how it is reminiscent of today.

“Meanwhile, the rest of us were playing war for two weeks in the Pennings on Salisbury Plain. Flt Lt Smith happened to remark, “living in the field is all very well, but at my time of life, I am missing the porcelain pleasures of life.” Never ones to miss a hint, the crewman who were living in luxury at Upavon dutifully delivered a porcelain toilet to our LP, complete with soft loo roll and instructions how to use it!”

Reflecting on the history of the Puma is inspiring; courageous stories on operations, personal stories of memorable experiences, or records of crew room dialogue where you can still hear the laughter.

All at RAF Benson are part of that shared history, which is nothing short of a privilege, to share it with the people who were there 50 years ago – now for the next 10 years.

1982-1991 Written by Flt Lt Hutton As a testament to its global reach, the Puma Force spent the 1980s spread across three locations; RAF Odiham, where 33 Sqn and No 240 OCU were based, RAF Gütersloh, where 230 Sqn had been established since 1980, and at Belize international airport, where 1563 (Tactical Support) Flt formed part of British Forces Belize.

RAF Pumas had supported the Army to deter Guatemalan aggression in Belize since 1975 by helping to enable the Army’s jungle training and providing much needed SAR cover for the military and civilian population.

They were eventually organized into 1563 Flt and are known to have supported several SF operations along the Guatemalan border.

1563 Flt were relatively unique as Puma operators go, in as much that they were

permanently equipped with rescue hoists, Nightsun lamps and sometimes flown by a single pilot and crewman.

The Pumas of 1563 Flt even provided support to Belize Defence Force anti-drug operations, after it was discovered that Belizean marijuana was of better quality than that grown in Colombia and the local farmers decided to take advantage of a more lucrative crop.

Turning attention 5,000 miles to the south and at the start on the 1980s, the British government had no contingency plan for an invasion of the Falkland Islands, but following the

Argentine landings on 2 Apr 82, a task force was rapidly mobilised. 33 Sqn began their unofficial preparations as work commenced (in the absence of authorisation) to provide a blade fold capability and suitable tie down points for deck operations.

The crews were also deeply involved in preparations, even going as far as painting a flight deck on a parade square at Sennybridge for practice approaches when on exercise, after which they returned with their tails up and ready to deploy. Unfortunately, following the bombing raid on Stanley airfield on 1 May 82, there was a volte-face and it was decided that the Pumas wouldn’t travel to the South Atlantic and that Wessexes would go instead.

Ironically in 2001 the Force would be supplemented by an Argentine Army SA 330J captured during the conflict.

Back in West Germany however, things were a bit quieter, that is until Aug 82 when 230 Sqn hosted their first NATO Tactics (Tiger) Meet, having only joined the NATO Tiger Association in 1977. It was the 22nd Meet with 40 aircraft, 140 pers and 15 sqns from 10 nations taking part. It is believed

that the base spent the rest of the decade recovering after hosting the best pilots in NATO for just one week!

In Oct 87 a 230 Sqn detachment returned to Northern Ireland as the ‘Troubles’ increased but were all back in Germany

by Oct 90. The Puma’s UK endeavours didn’t go unrewarded however; on one memorable occasion in Jan 87 a crew from 33 Sqn (callsign MEDEVAC10) flew in blizzard conditions to deliver a sick child to St George’s Hospital and an expectant mother to Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital only to be slapped with a parking ticket in the Guy’s car park!

To conclude a typically busy decade, the Puma Force deployed to Saudi Arabia in Nov 90, following the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. They formed part of Strategic Helicopter Force (SHF) Middle East during Op GRANBY, the British contribution to Ops DESERT SHIELD and DESERT STORM. During the early stages of the air campaign up to 15 Pumas deployed and had helped move approximately 3,000 troops almost 200 miles into CONTINUED >>>

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CONTINUED >>> Iraq before the ceasefire was announced, even flying in full NBC protection equipment if the threat required it, and evacuating over 160 casualties. Of note, on 21 Feb 91 the Puma detachment found itself directly underneath a successful Patriot missile engagement of a Scud missile and were showered with debris; miraculously no one (and no aircraft) was damaged. In the aftermath of the conflict they continued to show their versatility by ferrying PoWs and delivering food and aid to displaced refugees.

1992-2001 Op Banner May 92 saw the Puma HC1, under the watchful eye of 230 Sqn, move permanently to RAF Aldergrove where they would remain until the late 2000’s. Their mission involved surveillance, tactical movement of troops across the area alongside helping establish security and prosperity to Northern Ireland.

A Sqn Ldr, known as ‘Yavvy’ served three tours of Op BANNER, the first of which began in 1992. He recalls, “Most of the time our

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duties were to re-supply the troops. We also assisted the local population with the fixing of aerials to the top of cathedrals and assisting farmers with rescuing animals and attending car crashes”.

Their involvement proved invaluable, one such example in the early years, whilst supporting D Coy of the Royal Irish Rangers, they facilitated a presence over 700km2 to be secured. A task simply impossible with the same number of soldiers without the benefit of air power delivered by the Puma Force. Yavvy remembers with a smile, “I remember being on standby, it was six o’clock on Christmas Day morning when we were called out to go to Liverpool hospital to pick up snake bite anti-venom for a local snake breeder who had been bitten by his own snake and knew he had only five hours to live. He survived and we were back in time for Christmas Day lunch”.

Whilst the RAF Puma Force participated in countless Operations over the years, few came close to the intensity seen on the afternoon of 23 Sep 93.

The afternoon would’ve initially appeared somewhat routine to the crews, a simple pickup of troops from Crossmaglen Barracks, a site close to the south-eastern border. The

formation consisted a single Puma to conduct the troop movement, alongside two Lynx, operating in an escort role.

At approximately 1400hrs, the formation lifted from the barracks to be greeted by a hail of gunfire from the nearby St. Patrick ’s church and community centre. Assessed to have been two DShK heavy machine guns and three light machine guns, the Puma was hit almost immediately, at which point they and the Lynx escorts safely manoeuvred away from the gunfire to relative safety.

Amidst the commotion, support was rallied and a further two Lynx joined the fray. Two IRA trucks were seen heading east along Newry road, a 12-mile intense gunfight ensued, which ultimately claimed battle damage against a Lynx who was able to recover without further incident. Assessed to have lasted between 1030 minutes, the helicopters collectively fired 200 rounds.

Fortunately, no casualties were taken on either side.

during the 90s, the Puma Force found itself in the Balkans too. Initially deploying as part of the Rapid Reaction Force, Aug 95 saw 33 Sqn deploy six Puma HC1s into the region to help stabilise the conflict.

Based in Ploce, Croatia they were tasked to provide trooping alongside airborne command and control, or C2 as we know it today. Thankfully three months later the Dayton Accord was signed, and 33 Squadron returned to the UK in Oct 95 having operated across Croatia, Bosnia and Serbia.

The peace was not to last, and four years later, 33 Sqn once more found themselves supporting NATO under Op AGRICOLA. Similar to the previous detachment, they were equipped with six Pumas, this time based in Kosovo.

Flt Lt English remembers an occasion where Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC) was required: “I had a lot of time in Kosovo with the main activity being CASEVAC for British and other Forces, at the time there was no ambulance service”.

Balkans Conflict Work involving civil unrest was not limited to Northern Ireland

A significant incident he remembers well was when a British Army engineer, who was out for a run, got hit by a car, smashing his leg badly; “We got to him as quick as we could and flew him to the American military hospital.

Everything went well, he was looked after by his friends who

he had been running with, our medics got out to him and decided that he needed to be transported by helicopter, I flew the helicopter to pick him up by stretcher and he was at the hospital within 20 minutes of the accident happening.”

Operating under UN Security Council Resolution 1244, British Forces were not the only nation in theatre. Kosovo was primarily about transporting British and other allied troops, a significant danger to them was the presence of minefields.

Whilst the use of helicopter assets did help mitigate this risk, unfortunately it did lead to some unpleasant taskings for the Force. Flt Lt English remembered such an incident involving a Norwegian Official, where he was tasked to recover a body after an encounter with a mine. It did serve as a timely reminder that “It was very much a multi-national Operation out there”. Some 6 years after having first operated in the region, the Puma involvement in Kosovo ended in Nov 2001.

2002-2011 The first decade of the 21st Century saw Puma HC1 worked extremely hard in the years leading up to its eventual upgrade to HC2.

Extensive operations as well as exercises in places like Kenya and Norway proved fertile ground for tales of derringdo, hilarity, close shaves and in some instances, tragedy.

During the early 2000’s, Puma

was deployed in Kosovo and Bosnia, as well as Northern Ireland under the long running Op BANNER, with 230 Sqn permanently based at RAF Aldergrove. In Aug 04, the first Pumas arrived in Baghdad under Op CRICHTON, originally on a temporary basis to allow the Chinook force, who had been the mainstays of the Baghdad Heli Det, a period of rest in which to reset. They ended up staying until 2009, conducting tasks ranging from simple passenger and equipment shuttles to sorties in support of a UK Task Force.

with one of their comrades being trundled around in a wheelbarrow after he bungled his fast rope exit from the aircraft. Additionally, the utterance of “sliiightly high” now being infamous as Flt Lt Graeme Smallbone heavylanded ZE449 into Washington HLS, writing off an aircraft that was originally pressed into RAF service after being

them to HC1 standard.

Exercises in Norway and Kenya, as well as routine training in the UK proved equally eventful.

Various trips to Kenya for Ex ASK ARI THUNDER yielded a plethora of MEDEVACs for reasons including lion and baboon attacks, snakebites, an over-zealous Para CO beasting his men up ‘Archers post’ in 40°C heat and a Fijian

captured from the Argentinians during the Falklands war. Other losses include two Pumas sat innocently on the pan, blown over by a freak 90 mph ‘Shamal’.

To balance the attrition, the RAF purchased 6 ex-SA AF aircraft in 2006 and converted

who made his own way to the HLS for pickup, after being run over by a 4-ton truck.

The period saw several aircraft loses, a DFC awarded and generated numerous legendary tales, such as the night Flt Lt ‘Baz’ Stokes watched a specialist unit go into action

A bunch of Royal Irish and Scots, not content with CONTINUED >>>

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CONTINUED >>> throwing each other out of a second-floor window during a minor altercation, decided to continue the ruckus upon realising they were sharing a Puma cabin on the way to hospital. OC 33 Sqn, Wg Cdr ‘Ster’ Howard decided to take three aircraft packed with tables, chairs and food to a local mountain top for a sunrise breakfast. The then Fg Off Johnny Longland described the location as, “covered in vulture ****”, unsurprising as it turned out to be Kenya’s largest vulture reserve. On a separate occasion, disaster was narrowly averted when Crewman Si Craig said “I’m out” over the intercom, understatedly alerting the horrified pilots to the fact that he’d fallen out of the door and was clinging to the sponson – the infantry passengers, understandably keen to get him back in, initially tried to grab him by his quick release strap!

In the UK, Flt Lt ‘Skippy’ Harvey was asked to intercept a light aircraft that had stopped talking to people and wandered through controlled airspace.

With an astonishing 3kts of overtake available to affect the intercept, Skippy pioneered

the techniques that would later be called upon to defend the realm from rogue Cessnas during the 2012 Olympics, but that’s a different decade and a different story. In short, 2002-2011 saw the Puma force operating extremely hard, all over the world.

2011-2021 Author unknown With the end of Op TELIC, came the Puma Force’s first respite from live operations for over 30 years. The withdrawal from Iraq in 2010 left Ex ASK ARI THUNDER as our enduring overseas commitment supporting the British Army’s vital workup for Afghanistan, operating from Laikipia Air Base in the shadow of Mount Kenya. With a perfect blend of tactical flying, stunning scenery, marabou stalks and long drop toilets, it provided young pilots and crewmen with the opportunity to cut their teeth having missed the chance around Basra and Baghdad.

Over a period of 6-8 weeks the Puma detachments practiced dust landings, often on small dirt tracks surrounded by

acacia trees, before providing CASEVAC and supporting the Battle Group’s developing tactical scenario, culminating in five-ship predawn raids on the final enemy stronghold. The environment was challenging; 6,000 feet above sea level with high temperatures and unpredictable weather meant captaincy and airmanship were as crucial to success as careful planning.

To illustrate, a particular memory stands out. One evening, a task came in for an early morning insert of a six-man team onto a mountain top who would establish and maintain radio communication between the HQ element and the deployed field companies, to enable a dawn assault of an enemy compound. The plan was to then return to the pickup location where a friendly fuel bowser was in waiting, around 30-minute round trip. Simple enough.

Consistently sensible and straight-shooting, Flt Lt Jimmy Hill was selected as aircraft commander and my job as an LCR co-pilot was navigation and fuel management. The altitude and temperature meant

we had to trade endurance for performance and to lift the men and equipment we took enough fuel for the mission plus 6 minutes spare flying time.

Conditions were perfect - full moon, clear skies, light winds.

Departure and pickup went without issue and we located the mountain site. A technical single wheel landing on the rocky pinnacle allowed the team to disembark and we were released to our refuel point.

As we transitioned to forward flight, the crewman spotted movement on the side of the mountain, coupled with a radio call from the infiltrated ground callsign, excitedly informing us they were under harassment by a particularly annoyed troop of baboons, having had their domicile disturbed, presumably by the powerful aroma of the ground team rather than the noise of the Puma.

We reduced to endurance speed, stretching out additional seconds flying time and turned towards the mountain ready for a hasty extraction under contact.

Fortunately, a show of force convinced the baboons that the fight wasn’t worth it and with the troop in full retreat, we were released by the nervous team to head back with two minutes flying in hand. Both FUEL LOW lights illuminated, we crossed the final ridge into our valley to find a complete blanket of fog seemingly centred around our fuel bowser.

A low pass over the refuel grid tickling the top of the fog confirmed there was no way we’d make it in. One-minute left. An expedited move to higher ground and a hasty descent followed, landing “exactly” on fuel minima.

We left an engine running, desperately attempting to hail the refuel team on the radio who had apparently succumbed to their heightened state of low arousal and dozed off, letting the fog creep in unnoticed.

As luck would have it, our

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extremely low pass woke them up and they kindly informed us we’d be unable to land as they were sat in heavy fog. We exchanged pleasantries for a further minute or so, and they reluctantly agreed to drive up and lend us some fuel.

An hour’s wait gave us chance to absorb the scenery, with the clear sky and full moon bouncing off the low-lying fog, silhouetting the surrounding mountains. Finally, the sound of beasts of the night and rustling bushes gave way to the bowser, and despite ripping a pneumatic pipe on an unseen tree stump leaving them stranded, they topped us up and we landed back at Laikipia in time to meet the rising sun.

Another string was added to the Puma’s bow for the London Olympics in 2012. The UK’s first air-to-air sniping capability was developed, directed against low and slow aircraft that may pose a threat to large gatherings in stadiums. After a gruelling two-week training exercise on the beach in Corsica, teaming up with the RAF Regt who proved fine shots indeed, three Pumas were deployed to Ilford Barracks where they fortunately weren’t required, allowing the crews to watch the entire Olympic games from the comfort of the Ops room.

With the end of 2012 came the end of Puma HC1, concluding 41 years of outstanding service. The aircraft were sent to factories in Marseille and Romania to have new engines, cockpits and a raft of other new elements installed (as well as removing nearly half a ton of redundant wiring!) returning as the Puma HC2.

With engines developed for the 11-ton Super Puma, it gave the 7.4-ton Puma HC2 the punch lacking from the original and with it a superior performance in hot weather at high altitude.

It was, therefore, unsurprising that the Puma Force was soon tasked to deploy to Kabul in

the Spring of 2015 as part of the ongoing NATO mission in Afghanistan. The mission was to facilitate the advisory work being carried out at all levels of the Afghan government by moving people and materiel around the city, reducing the threat from Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) present when road moving.

The seasonal changes in Kabul brought different challenges.

The summer months, with Kabul sitting 5,600ft above sea level and temperatures rising into the late 30s, pushed the aircraft performance to its limit.

During the winter months, the minus temperatures and lack of heating in many houses led the local population to burn whatever they could find for warmth. The resultant thick layer of smog that sat over the city brought the visibility down below the limits for coalition helicopters, often leaving the RAF Pumas the only aircraft able to perform the routine city movements and casualty evacuation role.

The threat in Kabul was less than during the fighting in Helmand, but the area came with its dangers and challenges.

With so many helicopters

flying around such a tight space situational awareness and airmanship were critical to safety. Likewise, the crews were always on the lookout for any incidents developing in the city.

One routine flight stands out; whilst en-route to an Australian camp, a bang was heard and felt above the aircraft noise and the crewman observed a large dust cloud around 400m to the left of us. We called the lead to say we’d check it out while they off loaded the troops and freight.

As we neared overhead, it was obvious the smoke was the result of a vehicle borne IED, that had targeted a Danish convoy of armoured vehicles, and the chaos was just unfolding. Several civilian vehicles and pedestrians had been close by and crowds were gathering to help the casualties. The rear of the convoy had been disabled, careering to a halt, bleeding hydraulic and brake fluid over the street, necessitating the lead and second vehicle to turn around and offer close protection.

We set up in an orbit with the weapon pointing towards the

incident, posturing against any ongoing threat or follow up attack in the close urban environment, and immediately informed our Ops to pass the message on and start the quick reaction/recovery process.

We remained in the overhead until we received the message that all occupants were very fortunately uninjured, and with help close by we were released to continue our routine tasking around the city.

The incident was over within 20 minutes, and although our involvement was barely anything at all, we received a strong word of thanks from our Danish comrades. Sadly, as was, and is more often the case, the only casualties were civilian bystanders caught in the blast.

With the Puma withdrawal from Afghanistan complete, the Force remains focused on maintaining its capability and posture ready deploy globally as and when we are needed.

An exciting return to Kenya in August 2021 offers all the excitement of a decade ago, but with a much-improved steed, and will give the chance for a new generation of Puma pilots to bore their Chinook counterparts with yet another ‘this one time in Kenya’ dits!

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H175M in the tracks of the Puma