Ex Spring Storm 847 NAS's Scottish Summer

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

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

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 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

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.

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

Ipreviously 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.

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.

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

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.

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.