LZ Issue 3 2023/24

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Brunei Medevac Dog Trials RAF Benson Remembers

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THANK YOU We’d like to thank everyone for their incredible support this year.

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Your continued support is deeply appreciated, and we look forward to standing side by side with you in 2024. Thank you for being part of our RAF Family!

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CONTENTS

Contents

Issue 3 2023/24

PURPOSE Op Peleda Tactical Supply Wing .......................................... 07 Brunei Medevac .........................11 Ex PINION TITAN ......................12 Ex PINION TITAN - Fuel and Ammunition ...............................13 Commando Helicopter Force Landowners Day ........................14 Ex URBAN MAPLE .....................18 Exercise JUNGLIE DEFENDER .20 UK -Netherlands Joint Training .22 EQUIPMENT With the Speed of 665 Gazelles ..................................... 08 47 Regiment, Royal Artillery Represent at DSEI ......................15 47 Regiment, Royal Artillery at the Army Expo ...........................16

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PEOPLE Dog Trials ...................................17 Santa Takes to the Skies over Oxfordshire ............................... 25 JHC Personnel Recognised in the 2024 New Year's Honours List.. 27 RAF Benson Remembers ......... 28

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FORCE DEVELOPMENT Ex MEDITERRANEAN FALCON Tactical Supply Wing ................ 24 SPORT REME Plymouth Ju Jitsu Training Camp ......................................... 26

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EDITORIAL SUBMISSION DATE…

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J O U R N A L

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J O I N T H E L I C O P T E R XXTH MONTH 2019

T H E C O M M A N D

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 Media Group Limited and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without prior written permission of Lance Media Group Limited.

While every care has been taken during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Media Group 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.

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PURPOSE

Foreword

outputs and, more importantly, feel valued for their contribution.

Thank you for your hard work during 2023, I continue to be impressed by your dedication, enthusiasm, and ability to deliver time and time again. I wish you and your loved ones a Happy New Year and look forward to meeting many more of you over the coming months.

A Happy New Year to you all.

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hope you enjoyed some time off and have returned refreshed and energised for what will be an exciting year for JHC.

The New Year is a natural time to look forward but 2023 provided some key milestones. To begin with the first regiment flying the British Army’s new Apache AH-64E attack helicopter has completed its training and integration package. 3 Regiment Army Air Corps were put through their paces on Exercise Iron Titan, testing every aspect of the unit from its logistics and command and control procedures to the maintenance and operation of the state-of-the-art AH-64E in the field. They have now assumed Readiness aligned to the NATO Very High Readiness Joint Task Force.

An important first saw Watchkeeper successfully operate with Apache AH-64E on Ex PINION OMAN crosscueing targets via remote laser target designation for live Hellfire engagements in addition to providing tactical ISTAR products to exercising headquarters.

There was a proud moment of reflection as we said goodbye to Gazelle operations after almost 50 years. The Gazelle has been a stalwart of UK helicopter operations having been operated by all 3 services acquitting itself well in theatres as diverse as the Falkland Islands and Kosovo, through to Iraq and Afghanistan, to name but a few. 5 Regiment Army Air Corps flying 3 Gazelles on a tour of locations with long associations to the aircraft was a fitting tribute to this remarkable helicopter.

The 1 Dec 23 saw the creation of the Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Group. The UAS Gp brings together the Watchkeeper Force, JHC’s safety and assurance and the Field Army Surveillance Group. 32 Regiment Royal Artillery is also welcomed to the JHC to sit alongside 47 Regiment

Air Vice-Marshal A P T Smith Commander JHC

MeettheTeam Royal Artillery. This new organisation will generate and assure UAS and aid the development, procurement, and employment of similar systems across the Army. And, operationally, the latter weeks of 2023 represented a high water mark for JHC, generating more units of action across more points of presence that at any time in JHC history.

Turning to this year there will be more of what we do best. Op CLOCKWORK is already underway demonstrating our ability to operate in the High North and Op LINOT YPER will see us providing rotary support to Land’s contribution to exercises in the Baltic States. In addition, we will continue to hold very high readiness in pursuit of UK Defence’s output in what continues to be a volatile world.

Finally, we will soon see JHC transition into the new Joint Aviation Command (Jt Avn Comd) to better reflect the proliferation of UAS and the need to Generate, Operate and Assure this rapidly evolving technology alongside crewed platforms against a new operational demand. The new HQ will cohere all Army TLB aviation drawing on the skills and knowledge of operating crewed aircraft to exploit the proliferation of UAS and rapid integration of Launched Effects. A revised operating model will successfully integrate the activity of all our Force Elements to effectively meet Defence’s training and operational demands. Change can sometimes generate anxiety and uncertainty and I would like to reassure everyone within this organisation that this is a genuinely exciting time. The year ahead may at times be challenging but this is a positive development, everyone should feel more closely connected to our

COVER IMAGE: 845 NAS conducting flying training in Norway - POPhot Kyle Heller.

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EDITORIAL Editor: Sqn Ldr Barry Johnson E: BARRY.JOHNSON134@mod.gov.uk – SALES Sales Manager: Jayne Bailey E: jayne@lancemediagroup.co.uk T: 01536 334219 – DESIGNER Designer: Amanda Robinson E: amanda@lancemediagroup.co.uk – PUBLISHER Lance Media Group Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, Northants NN16 8NL T: 01536 334222 E: mike@lancemediagroup.co.uk W: www.militarymags.co.uk – PRINTER Micropress – FURTHER INFORMATION W: w ww.mod.uk/defenceinternet/ aboutdefence/whatwedo/ airsafetyandaviation/jhc – SUBMISSIONS SHOULD BE SENT TO THE EDITOR

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PURPOSE

OP PELEDA – TACTICAL SUPPLY WING Written By: FS Kelly

Just over a year ago Tactical Supply Wing (TSW) departed MOD Stafford alongside 2MT Sqn, RAF Wittering, to road move ~20 vehicles through the Netherlands across into Germany for an overnight stop in Berlin just in time to celebrate the New Year.

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hilst in Berlin TSW had the opportunity to visit the German Border Museum, Schifflersgrund. The Museum had military vehicles and helicopters used to patrol and fly along the inner German border. As the convoy drove further North in Germany the weather clearly became colder with more snow visible. Arriving at the Polish boarder the packet was greeted by a friendly police escort, to take us all the way through Lithuania and Latvia before eventually arriving at the Estonian border.

Arriving at Ämari Air Base (AB), Estonia, TSW were greeted with food and open arms from SP from 18 Sqn RAF Odiham.

After settling in all TSW Pers were required to complete the Cold Weather Operators Course, where they would find themselves out in the field for 2 nights adapting to the subdued temperatures that Estonia offered. This certified that any tasking deploying forward TSW could operate in the cold environment.

Not long after the course was complete 18 Sqn Chinooks arrived at Ämari AB. As Op PELEDA progressed TSW deployed on Ex WINTER CAMP which involved a Forward Refuelling Point (FRP) to Tapa AB in the east of Estonia. Here TSW set up a semi-permanent infrastructure by deploying the Joint Operations Fuel System Light Forces and two 10m³ Tank Fabric Collapsibles allowing us to act as a FOB for 18 Sqn to complete sorties in and around the Tapa region. Working

alongside JHSS, TSW Pers would assist in the rigging of complex under slung loads to achieve and promote the expected CTOs. Toward the end of Op PELEDA TSW Pers got the chance to partake in Force Development in Riga, Latvia and Helsinki, Finland. This involved a visit to the KGB Museum to learn about the impact of the occupation of the Soviet Union in Latvia; followed by an informative trip to the Riga Ghetto and Latvian Holocaust Museum.

support the ac all the way home at specific locations in Europe to provide FRPs. Spending a total of 4 days supporting the ac to complete the requirements of 18 Sqn. In total TSW contributed support to Op PELEDA and JHC in a total of 7 countries.

During the drawdown of Op PELEDA TSW were tasked with a final FRP to Poland from Estonia to assist with sorties in and around the area. From here 18 Sqn would depart and return to the UK. TSW would

In recognition for TSWs efforts throughout the entirety of Op PELEDA, Station Commander, RAF Odiham thanked TSW for the support given to sustain his Sqn in the most arduous of environments. Specific credit was given to Sgt Sean Pellington and AS1 Nathan Queenan who both received Station Commander, RAF Odiham Commendations.

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EQUIPMENT

WITH THE SPEED OF 665 GAZELLES… Written By: Capt Jack Moxley - 665 Sqn 2IC

Time is a monster that cannot be reasoned with. It responds like a snail to our impatience, then it races like a gazelle when you can’t catch a breath.

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or the last 50 years British Soldiers have looked skyward upon hearing an iconic highpitched whine in the air. This simple action would have been rewarded with the sight of a majestic Gazelle helicopter flying overhead. This soldier could have been stood in Kenya, the Falkland Islands, in Bosnia or Iraq, been on operations in Northern Ireland or Exercise on Salisbury Plain; this welcome sound could be providing a MEDEVAC, an AOP capability or an ‘all seeing’ Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform over a patrol in South Armagh.

The Gazelle’s success in various conflicts has solidified its reputation as a reliable and effective helicopter. It has been prolific and enduring on behalf of the A AC, and for the last 50 years, where the Army goes, the Gazelle goes.

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In the world of helicopters, the Gazelle stands out for its elegance and versatility.

A true pilot’s aircraft, flown without any stabilisation or autopilot and renowned for its ability to ‘turn on a dime’, it gained the fitting description of ‘The sportscar of the skies’.

Anyone who has operated, engineered, or worked alongside the Gazelle over its illustrious 50 years will no doubt have fond memories of this reliable workhorse.

This article hopes to highlight a career unmatched by any other military helicopter.

History & Operations.

The Gazelle, a stalwart of the UK Armed Forces’ aviation fleet, was originally manufactured by French aerospace company Sud Aviation and later by Aérospatiale. Designed

primarily as a light observation and utility helicopter, the Gazelle quickly proved its versatility.

265 km/h. The first helicopter to feature a fenestron tail, it was the only helicopter to serve with all three services.

The cockpit provided outstanding visibility, making it perfect for reconnaissance whilst the engine, powered by a single turbine, could push to a maximum speed of

The Gazelle AH-1 entered service with the A AC in 1974 and deployed in the UK, Northern Ireland, Germany, Hong Kong, the Falkland Islands, Canada, Kenya, Belize,

Cyprus, Iraq, Kosovo, Bosnia, Sierra Leone and Afghanistan during its 49-year service.

The most iconic theatre for the Gazelle is undoubtedly Northern Ireland where it played a significant role in military operations during the period colloquially referred to as ‘The Troubles’. It was crucial to maintaining security and gathering critical intelligence during a tumultuous period in the region’s history. The Gazelle has been an enduring presence in the skies of Northern Ireland and its versatility was relied upon continuously in reaction to the threat. Originally employed as an ISR platform, it’s utility in supporting other mission sets was soon realised and the Gazelle force flexed to meet the demand. It wasn’t long before the Gazelle was conducting aerial support, inserting small QRF teams, and conducting troop movements in response to the increased threat from paramilitaries during road moves.

At the height of the Troubles having a Gazelle hovering overhead enhanced overall situational awareness extensively and contributed to ensuring the best course of action was undertaken. There is no doubt that the Gazelle can receive a significant amount of credit for the peaceful and prosperous situation Northern Ireland finds itself in today.

The Beginning of the End. With the cessation of military flying operations in Northern Ireland confirmed early in 2023, 665 Sqn tilted its focus back to the Field Army. A permanent 5A AC detachment was established at Middle Wallop demonstrating once again the utility of this historical platform. Within days of the detachment being established the Gazelle began to receive JHC directed VIP tasks (a CGS move as the first task no less) and for the first time in decades, provided a live red aviation threat to troops exercising on Salisbury Plain.

Exercising troops on Ex Wessex Storm 23-1 and Ex Apollo Sabre 23 were exposed to a real life 3-dimensional enemy threat.

An enemy platform that you can’t simply report a grid on, an enemy that can traverse

the operating area within 10 minutes and simulate a strafing run onto a friendly position without any warning and vanish just as fast. The presence of the Gazelles was best described by members of TF Hannibal as “game changing”.

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CONTINUED understandable change of work routine. A comprehensive training package was created, and all departments were involved in the planning of each task to ensure all implied tasks were captured and fatigue management was monitored. This proved to be essential to the success of the ever-changing requests.

The British Army does not routinely incorporate this threat seriously and the Gazelles deployment on both Exercises offered immense training value, highlighted a few lessons, and forced a re-write of some TTPs. A phenomenal final handshake between the British Army and its Gazelle helicopters.

2023 has been a year of lasts for the Gazelle and its attendance at RIAT was one of them. Two Gazelles flew into the world-famous air show and

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wowed spectators and aviation enthusiasts for one final time. The Gazelle also paid a visit to the Wales Air Show in Swansea attracting much public interest and interaction with members of 5A AC. Throughout this period of transformation safety remained at the forefront of everyone’s minds. Personnel within 5A AC had been, for decades, embedded into a 24/7/365 UKCT Battle Rhythm and this shift of focus required an

Summary To mark the historic retirement, 5 Regiment Army Air Corps flew a formation of three Gazelle helicopters starting from Flying Station Aldergrove, Northern Ireland. The flight took place on 23 October 2023

with the aircraft stopping or overflying historic locations that have played a role in the Gazelle’s service.

The Gazelle’s time in the British Army showcased its adaptability and effectiveness in various roles, leaving behind a legacy of service and contributing significantly to the British Army’s capability.

It’s legacy lives on in the hearts of helicopter enthusiasts and all those who have served with this incredible aircraft.

Long live the ‘Whistling chicken leg!’

PURPOSE

BRUNEI MEDEVAC British troops training in the jungles of Brunei have lot to worry about.

Written By: Flt Lt Pay, 230 Sqn

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ot only must they learn the essential skills that they need to survive and fight in the jungle. They must also deal with a host of dangerous flora and fauna. All while contending with the ever-present tropical heat. There is a lot that can go wrong and having a plan for how to deal with a medical emergency is essential.

Where there are no roads and traveling on foot can be a slow as 500m per hour, there is only one viable option: the helicopter.

MEDEVAC, short for Medical Evacuation, is 230 Squadron’s primary role in Brunei. Consisting of just 3 Puma helicopters and less than 100 personnel 230 Squadron took over from 7 Flight of the Army Air Corps

in 2022. The squadron holds MEDIVAC standby day and night whenever troops are exercising in the jungle.

A crew of two pilots, one crewman and a winch medic will be on standby, ready to be airborne within 60 minutes of receiving a MEDEVAC request, known as a “9-Liner”.

The winch medic is essential to the role. They not only provide medical assistance to any casualty on board but often, in order to recover a casualty, they will be winched into small and unprepared jungle clearings. All of 230 Squadron’s winch medics are trained medical personnel from both the garrison’s Primary Care Medical Facility (PCMF) and the Regimental Aid Post (RAP). They work with the squadron alongside their primary duties. LCpl Woolley joined 230 Squadron as a winch medic in the summer of 2023. His day-to-day role is as a primary healthcare medic at the PCMF. Even in his short time on the squadron he has been involved in a number of rescues, many of them using the winch. LCpl Woolley describes being a winch medic

as “probably the best job I’ve ever done in the military”.

and so it is essential to train this whenever possible.

Such a role requires specialist training. Training begins with lessons on the various winching equipment they will need to become familiar with. They quickly progress to the aircraft where they first experience what it is like to go out of the helicopter on a winch. This is a unique experience that strikes fear in most trainees. Building confidence is key and they will start low, at approximately 10 feet before slowly moving higher. It is crucial that the medic gets comfortable as winch rescues in the jungle regularly involve winching at heights up to 200 feet.

Like many of the medics LCpl Woolley had never been on a helicopter before becoming a winch medic. Even with experience working in field hospitals and ambulances carrying out medical work in the back of a helicopter added a whole new dimension.

“It massively threw me off” he told me. “The first casualty was one of the more difficult things I’ve done”.

As their confidence grows, they must also learn a range of new skills. These include hand signals for communicating with the winch operator. And how to securely attach themselves and a casualty to the winch in different scenarios.

They will initially learn these skills at Medicina Lines where 230 Squadron is based.

Progressing through recovering causalities using strops and using the rescue stretcher carried by the Puma. As they progress through the course, they then leave the safety of the airfield and are exposed to the jungle environment. Here they learn the skills required to work with the crewman to recover a casualty in a confined space whilst dealing with the noise and downwash of a helicopter overhead. Once these skills have been mastered by day, the trainee will then be required to demonstrate them at night. Night winching in the jungle is a skill that is difficult for all involved

Due to the range of experience the training process must be flexible. There is no set timeframe in which it must be completed and trainees are given the time they need to achieve the level of skill required. It is a steep learning curve for all but it is a truly rewarding job.

Once their training is completed new medics must pass an assessed flight to demonstrate what they have learned. On passing their check they are now able to hold a MEDIVAC readiness alongside the rest of the crew, joining the squadron in helping to save the lives of British troops in Brunei.

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PURPOSE

EXERCISE PINION TITAN July 22 saw the final AH Mk1 sortie for 663 Sqn: the premier Attack Helicopter Sqn in the BCT. Written By: Capt Clamp, 3AAC

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4 exhausting months later and re-equipped with AH64-E V6, the Sqn has validated ready to assume Very High Readiness in the New Year.

Having juggled Conversion To Mark, support to Defensive Aids System (DAS) Trials and in the margins, our own preparation for validation, Ex PINION TITAN saw 663’s first tac-ex in over 2 years. During the month long exercise the Sqn forged a highly capable team and delivered 4-ship aviation patrols from Nesscliffe, Shropshire, against a dynamic enemy in challenging conditions. The Sqn was quick to impress with a tactical occupation of the rural Assembly Area. Through dispersion the survivability of our people, aircraft, and vehicle platforms was increased.

The Sqn went back to basics, living, and operating out of woodland harbour areas, remaining undetected by drones, whilst honing the skills needed to operate on the modern battlefield.

Our Apaches teamed with Wildcat from 659 Sqn executed strikes onto Spadeadam and Northeast England supporting Ex COBRA WARRIOR: the RAF’s largest air exercise.

With more than 80 jets operating alongside rotary platforms, COBRA WARRIOR offered a superb learning opportunity within a realistic peer on peer scenario. The Sqn improved interoperability with air whilst showcasing the improved capabilities of the E-Model. 663’s ES platoon worked around the clock in uncomfortable conditions to deliverer 4 from 6 AH for each

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mission, without fail. The task cannot be underestimated and their dedication effort and commitment to deliver close to 200 flying hours set a precedent in the Regiment and across the BCT. Just as the woodblocks of Nesscliffe started to feel like home, orders were received to carry out a tactical change of location to Devon some 230 miles away. After a 12-hour road move in torrential rain, the Sqn re-established the HQ at Eaglescott Airfield to support 3 (UK) Div’s Ex IRON TITAN. DEEP ATTACK was back on the menu. With targets located at reach, 663’s GSF set the standard for deploying 4-point Forward Arming and Refuelling Points (FARP) into remote locations across the Southwest, where actions on and Tactics Techniques and Procedures were confirmed against a live enemy. Airtpr Rushton commented that ‘the FARPing we achieved was a step above what we were used to. It was exciting, especially as we didn’t know where the enemy were going to be. I feel like we’re well prepared to deliver FARPs on the Battlefield’.

After 4-weeks of relentless planning and execution cycles, culminating in an Aviation Assault on Salisbury Plain, the Sqn returned to Wattisham.

A week of equipment rehab and preparation for Project WALLRIDER (DAS T&E) followed before deploying to Sennybridge for Live Firing Tactical Training. We now prepare in detail for the assumption of Readiness aligned to the NATO Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (VJTF) in January 2024.

PURPOSE

EX PINION TITAN – FUEL AND AMMUNITION On September 12th 2023, 669 Squadron 3 Regiment Army Air Corps were among 8000 personnel to deploy on the British Army’s largest land exercise in over 20 years.

Written By: LCpl Dodds 669 Sqn

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he soldiers of 669 Sqn supply the fuel and ammunition needed for the Apache to fly its missions and the preparation began months in advance, with hours and hours spent getting vehicles deployable, kit and equipment serviceable and soldiers fit to fight.

Day 1 consisted of a 182 mile convoy to Swynnerton, consisting of various vehicles such as Land Rovers, Battlefield Ambulance, Support Vehicles, Enhanced Pallet Loading SYstems, Diesel Unit Support Tankers, Oshkosh and CST Water/Diesel.

Upon arrival, the vehicles were swiftly hidden and camouflaged before we began a Basic Close Combat Skills package. During these few days we continuously practised Individual Training Requirements such as Fieldcraft, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN), Battlefield Casualty Drills (BCD), Captured Personnel (CPers), Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Communications. Honing and perfecting these skills, the drills prepared everyone for the challenging weeks to come.

After a few days we then moved location to Nesscliffe Training Area where we found ourselves under constant enemy threat of small arms fire, Indirect Fire, chemical attack, rioters and even drones! With technology constantly evolving, there is a need for all of us to also evolve and adapt. As seen in Ukraine there is a very real and evergrowing threat from drones in today’s battlefield, this was made clear and explained in detail on the exercise. We were taught new drills and actions on when spotting drones, whether that be on foot or while driving a vehicle.

The Squadrons’ main effort throughout the four weeks was to supply constant Distribution

Points (DPs) for 663 Squadron, 659 Squadron and the Brigade HQ, all at short notice to move and at any hour of the day.

The DP’s were essential for resupplying the Squadrons with vital supplies and equipment so that the aircraft could still fly, vehicles could still drive and soldiers could not only survive but thrive. DP’s were conducted tactically at all times, sometimes at night in full darkness and in some cases while coming under enemy contact. All of this was under strict drivers hours, testing us to new limits, proving every soldiers’ ability to complete the mission under extreme pressure, tiredness, and fatigue.

We then moved location once again, travelling the length of the country down to Chivenor in Devon. Once there we established ourselves in our new location and then it was nonstop for the whole week, dealing with more CBRN threats, drones and enemy interactions. The Quick Reaction Force (QRF) were ready 24/7 as well as multiple DP’s and taskings taking place. This heavy tempo stretched the Squadron, but despite the high work rate and intensity, all missions

and taskings were completed to the highest standard.

On the final day we were tested with multiple scenarios, these included multiple casualty evacuations, carrying out BCD on casualties, conducting section attacks, dealing with CPERs. The day concluded with the sqn finally coming under attack with the QRF reacting swifty, engaging the enemy and eliminating them without any casualties.

This Exercise was a validation to show the Regiment, wider Army, NATO and the rest of the world that 669 Squadron, 3A AC are more than ready to take on and hold high readiness.

We stand ready to deploy anywhere in the world at short notice and carry out missions to the highest standard.

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PURPOSE

COMMANDO HELICOPTER FORCE - LANDOWNERS DAY Landowners Day is an entry in the Commando Helicopter Force’s (CHF) annual calendar.

Written By: Lt Cdr Watson RN and Photos courtesy of Jason Bryant.

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t is when the Force says “thank you” to farmers and landowners in the region who allow CHF helicopters to use their land to train on or over. It also allows the Force to extend the hand of friendship to those that have been unintentionally and unfortunately upset or impacted upon. Though extremely rare, undertaking an unplanned controlled emergency landing in a landowner’s field and damaging crops or distressing livestock is very occasionally an outcome. Landowners are usually very understanding and forgiving, but at CHF we are mindful of the impact that we may have caused.

The majority of remote helicopter landing sites within the Yeovilton air operating area belong to private landowners who, on a good will basis permit helicopters to land on or work and train at low level over their land. These sites are hugely valued and vital to the training carried out by CHF to help it deliver its operational capability. Maintaining and further developing flying skills and readiness for operations is a demanding and exacting task. Achieving high capability and high readiness levels means that CHF can deploy its helicopters and crews swiftly to any area of operations worldwide at extremely short notice, and once deployed to undertake operational missions immediately. Whilst training for conflict the crews of CHF

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train equally for peace, such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.

To continue this essential link with the local community Landowners Day acknowledges the greatly valued support shown and provided by farmers and landowners in Somerset, Devon, Dorset, Cornwall and Wiltshire.

Landowners Day 2023 took place at Merryfield Airfield at Ilton near Ilminster.

Guests were able to talk to CHF personnel and to see some of the combat vehicles, communications equipment, weaponry and other components of the Force. As a sincere gesture of thanks guests were also able to undertake a short familiarisation flight around Glastonbury Tor in one of 845 Naval Air Squadron’s Commando Merlin MK4 helicopters. Captain Pete

Goddard RM who is with CHF’s Aviation Combat Service Support Squadron organised this year’s event, which was no mean undertaking for a vital and diverse unit that has almost perpetually been deployed in one shape or another during the year.

Pete Goddard said “CHF benefits so much training value from its relationship with the regional landowners and farmers that organising this year’s event was something that I volunteered to undertake.

Subsequently meeting up with and talking to so many of the landowners and their families

that attended the day was a privilege and made the relationship very personal”.

Any farmer or landowner that could offer helicopter access to parts of their land, even just once a year, should email Lieutenant Commander Stephen Watson on Stephen. watson951@mod.gov.uk

EQUIPMENT

47 REGIMENT, ROYAL ARTILLERY REPRESENT AT DSEI On the 12th of Sept a small team from 47 Regiment, Royal Artillery attended the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) at the ExCeL, London to showcase Watchkeeper to the World.

Written By: Lt Simpson

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ith 2800 security suppliers and delegates of 110 different countries, the DSEI, London is the largest conference of its kind.

Lt Simpson, SSgt Ashman, Bdr Smithee and Bdr Swift briefed Leaders of defence from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Nepal, Uruguay and Romania to name a few. Meeting with leaders of international allies offered the opportunity to multilaterally engage on behalf of the British Army with partner nations. The event was also the perfect opportunity for personnel to meet leading industry partners and broaden their understanding of other UAS and counterUAS platforms available. 47 Regt attended DSEI as part of the British Army’s ‘Land platform Zone’ who’s main goal was to demonstrate through captivating displays that the integration of the British Army’s capabilities is what makes us enduringly excellent, disciplined and deadly, and ready for the fight.

soldiers for refreshments in their private events lounge overlooking warships on the Thames. Also the team made the most of being based in central London exploring in their down time.

With new upgrades scheduled

for Watchkeeper in the near future, DSEI was the perfect opportunity to demonstrate its key role in the future of winning wars through autonomous reconnaissance and finding enemy targets in the deep battlespace in order to strike.

It wasn’t all work and no play however, as Thales Group, maker of the Watchkeeper platform, kindly invited the

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EQUIPMENT

47 REGIMENT, ROYAL ARTILLERY AT THE ARMY EXPO On the 18th of July, Lt Simpson, Sgt Lupton and Bdr Chappelle for 47 Regiment, Royal Artillery were given the opportunity to brief about Watchkeeper at the British Army Expo hosted at Wellington Barracks.

Written By: Lt Simpson

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he British Army Expo 2023 was an opportunity to paint a picture to the general public of what the British army is doing today and the vision of what it will look like in the near future.

High profile guests that visited the event included Former Secretary of Defence, Ben Wallace, Current Deputy Chief of General Staff, Lieutenant General Sharon Nesmith, various MPs and other parties interested in the future of the British Army.

For one week in the Summer the event changed the usual busy parade square of Wellington Barracks into a walking immersive show for invited guests to gain a greater understanding of the vision for the army’s future. Visitors

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were invited to join a narrated show through a war-torn scene before concluding the show amongst the army’s platforms.

UAS pilot, Bdr Chappelle and Image Intelligence Analyst, Sgt Lupton expertly answered questions about Watchkeeper’s capability. The soldiers utilised being in central London by exploring in their downtime and socialising with soldiers from other cap-badges.

Watchkeeper UAS was parked on the parade square neatly next to AH– 64E Apache, showing the full effect of the inter-capability of the British army and how air assets can work together to Find and Strike targets. Other future industry platforms such as Hydra 400 drone were also present showing the relevance of UAS far into the future of the British army.

PEOPLE

DOG TRIALS On 17-21 Sep 23, Cpl Dilks and Military Working Dog (MWD) Cobra, competed in the Provost Marshal Royal Air Force Military Working Dog trials, at RAF Honington.

Written By: Fg Off Garfield

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WD trials is a culmination of a year of hard work and rigorous training, whereby a total of 55 patrol teams were assessed and the top 10 patrol teams qualified to compete in MWD trials. The top MWD teams from across the RAF were put through their paces in operationally realistic scenarios, to decide the UK’s top team. Disciplines assessed included: obedience and agility, day and night patrols and an assessment of operational bite work. It is a huge achievement for Cpl Dilks and MWD Cobra to have been selected as one of those

10 teams, to attend trials to represent RAF Odiham.

Cpl Dilks thoroughly enjoyed the week and was proud to represent RAF Odiham.

Enabling him a platform to display the hard work and dedication undergone to get MWD Cobra to the trial’s standard. Cpl Dilks’ favourite moment from the week was during the night work assessment, whilst patrolling a wooded area in complete darkness the decoy charged them from behind a tree and MWD Cobra was able to protect Cpl Dilks almost immediately and detained the individual.

Showcasing the capability of Cobra, in particular the drive to protect him due to their unbreakable bond.

Cobra is a 6-year-old, female Dutch herder. Cpl Dilks’ and her have been teamed for 2 years and when Cobra isn’t protecting RAF Odiham she can be found fast asleep on one of her armchairs or enjoying a groom. Cobra is described by Cpl Dilks as ‘goofy, with loads of love to give to those in her inner circle and says she loves nothing more than to roll around on her back, to let you know she is happy’.

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PURPOSE

EX URBAN MAPLE Over a 5-day period in November, elements of 1 Regiment Army Air Corps deployed to Caerwent Training Area to take part in Exercise URBAN MAPLE. Images: Airtpr Allen AAC

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he Exercise was conceived and designed to provide the Ground Support troops with the opportunity to develop new skills in the urban environment, in preparation for the implementation of the Urban Basics Individual Training Requirement.

With many of the soldiers never having touched Fighting in Built Up Areas (FIBUA) before, the training was progressive, with troops starting with the basics and progressing up through dry-drills, blank firing, and then onto building clearances utilising simulation, judgemental targets, and live enemy.

With the challenges posed by the urban environment in mind, the Helicopter landing sites used were designed to test both the Groundcrew and Aircrew. Making use of confined landing points with limited access and a challenging defensive plan, the Arming Teams successfully occupied, operated, and defended landing sites in

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both day and night conditions, receiving and refuelling live aircraft in locations normally out of limits for aviation.

A Commando Helicopter Force Wildcat AH.1 from 847 Naval Air Squadron landed in an Urban Forward Arming and Refuelling Point in an abandoned train station to be refuelled by a close support tanker before coming under enemy fire, soldiers were required to defend the position as the aircraft lifted.

The final phase of the Exercise was a culmination of the FIBUA skills acquired throughout this challenging week. The final objective was to clear a multi-story building requiring a platoon level attack. Soldiers of 659 and 661 Sqns combined to clear the objective and the additional positions in depth. The signallers among the sections were tested in their use of Close Combat Attack cards and 9-Liners utilising aviation to suppress enemy positions before extracting casualties in a simulated Casualty Evacuation operation.

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PURPOSE

EXERCISE JUNGLIE DEFENDER Written By: Capt Hunter, RM

Ex JUNGLIE DEFENDER is the consolidation exercise which brings together the use of Mobility Weapon-Mounted Installation Kit (MWMIK aka JACKAL) and Heavy Machine Guns (HMG).

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he mobility package saw Aviation Combat Service Support Squadron conduct a five-day package where both rural and urban Mobility, Camouflage and Concealment, route planning and reconnaissance, and refuelling of the Junglie aircraft from Commando Helicopter Force. The refuelling simulated operating in disaggregated rural settings and hastily occupied urban environment, giving Commando Helicopter Force the competitive edge in support of UK Commando Force.

Ranks involved have either conducted the JACKAL Operator course (3 Weeks), JACKAL Commander Course (2 Weeks) or a HMG concentration (2 Weeks). All Heavy Machine Guns within Commando Helicopter Force are operated

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by Fire Support Group (FSG), Secondary Specialist Qualification (SSQ) Marines.

This SSQ training ensures when ranks from Commando Helicopter Force return to UKCF they are immediately employable within the HMG role. The JACKAL Operator course takes students from zero knowledge on the vehicle to mastery of day and night ground manoeuvre over challenging terrain tactically in order to gain tactical advantage. The JACKAL Commander must be an experienced operator as a prerequisite. During the Commanders course their expert ability will be sharpened to fully exploit the capability of both Operator and vehicle within a tactical unit, deliberately out manoeuvring adversary’s thought processes by capitalising on the vehicle's capabilities. The imaginative

use of the vehicle, whilst ensuring all safety aspects of the training are being adhered too, has been testament to the diligence and professionalism of Aviation Combat Service Support Squadrons Ground Mobility Operators.

In summary, the workforce fusion of freshly passed out ranks with Operationally experienced Marines from UKCF has yielded a product

unparalleled within JHC. The Forward Refuelling Point Capability is constantly evolving to current and novel threats, through innovative solutions and deep knowledge of the tactical employment of the kit and equipment we use. While Aviation Task Force 2 aligns more closely with UKCF, we also maintain our readiness for the Support of Land warfare up to the divisional level, a headmark we consistently train towards.

Quote, Mne M –

“The contribution ACSS Sqn has to CHF’s operational output is something I was unaware of while serving within UKCF. We are deployed both persistently on LRG (S) in warm weather climates, and the support of our NATO allies in the High North and Arctic Circle region, this blend of training really reinforces why we work so hard to maintain the high standards of our skills.”

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PURPOSE

UK – NETHERLANDS JOINT TRAINING Written By: Lt Cdr Straker, RN

Dutch and British pilots have reinvigorated bonds dating back to World War 2 during two weeks of intensive sorties over the skies of the Southwest of England.

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lying from Royal Navy Air Station Yeovilton in Somerset, aviators from the UK’s Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) and the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s 860 Squadron launched missions that laid the foundations for joint operations across the globe, starting in the Arctic Circle from January.

The joint training – the second in a series of exercises codenamed Guardian Defender – saw the UK’s Commando Merlin and Commando Wildcat and Dutch NH-90 helicopters operate together, learning how one another work, sharing knowledge and expertise to ultimately create a joint force able of operating side-by-side on the frontline.

This combined training comes on the 50th anniversary year of the UK Netherlands Amphibious Force – Europe’s oldest force of its kind, which has seen the two nations share training, tactics and kit since 1973.

That relationship has sometimes laid dormant, but the flights this autumn have rekindled historic ties, which began during World War 2 when 860 Naval Air Squadron (as it was previously known) was in British service but comprised of Dutch pilots who had escaped mainland Europe to take the fight back to the Nazis.

The squadron was transferred to the Netherlands in 1946 after operating the Fairey Swordfish and later the Fairey Barracuda as a bomber/ reconnaissance squadron.

Lieutenant Commander Pete Straker, 845 Naval Air Squadron’s Senior Warfare Officer, said:

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“Building on the success of the first iteration of the exercise, part two aimed to provided increased force cooperation opportunities. Overall, it was hugely successful, with elements of most of the functional areas in Commando Helicopter Force working together and helping to support the Dutch.

860 Squadron departed for the Netherlands having completed all their individual training objectives and again extolling the huge benefits they get from operating out of Yeovilton alongside CHF. The exercise has moved CHF/860Sqn integration another step forward, putting the partnership on a strong foundation for Exercise Nordic Response in the Arctic this Feb.

Across two weeks of activity, Dutch pilots lead by Major Jan Parlevliet, the Dutch Marines project lead worked with 846, 845 and 847 Naval Air Squadrons – which make up the Commando Helicopter Force – to bring together a range of complex skills that culminated in a mock helicopter assault.

During this final assault, a Dutch Anti-Armour patrol were brought in by a NH-90, guided into position at night by the Commando Mobile Air Operations Team (MAOT) – which guide helicopters to the best possible landing sites to complete their objectives, allowing assault forces to enter the area.

The best landing site was recced by the MAOT while

working in tandem with a Commando Wildcat that was providing reconnaissance and feeding information on the picture on the ground to pave the way for troops and equipment to be landed.

The assault by the Anti-Armour team moved quickly with objectives taken rapidly, before Merlins, Wildcat and NH-90 combined to extract forces back to base.

As part of the overall training, a Dutch sergeant was given training by the Commando MAOT team to qualify him as a helicopter handling specialist – working on the theory of the role and building up the final tactic scenario which tested him in a ‘real-world’ setting.

rabilit y d proven interope “The interaction an nd assets L aviation and grou between UK and N s are l where both partie ha s reached a leve pace, rs ai e ating in the sam comfortable oper gr d ound ms between air an with positive com d for rstanding develope de un ll fu d an ts se as site helicopter landing d an ce an id gu al termin mmander said Lieutenant Co recce capabilit y,” d of the e of ficer in comman th n, so at W en ev St Commando MAOT. e be to exploit thes “The next step will nment challenging enviro e th in ps hi ns tio rela of Nor way.”

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FORCE DEVELOPMENT

EX MEDITERRANEAN FALCON – TACTICAL SUPPLY WING Written By: FS Kelly

With an 0300 RV in the MT car park members of Tactical Supply Wing (TSW) started a week long FD trip to Sicily.

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he trip encompassed a WWII Battlefield Study tour of the island of Sicily to explore the lessons offered from the War in the Mediterranean, with a specific focus on Op HUSKY (the Allied invasion of Sicily, Jul-Aug 1943) and the role of the RAF Servicing Commandos (the forebears of TSW). This conflict has much to offer with relevance to contemporary Joint Helicopter Command operations.

Day 1 and 2 took us to the towns of Passerno, Syracuse, Caltagirone and Gerbini where the landings by enemy contacts would result in the capture of all main ports on the island.

Sicily’s coast became littered with temporary airfields to accommodate axis Air Forces, with their capture making it impossible for the enemy to sustain themselves on

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the island during the heavy bombing from Allied sorties.

On day 3 and 4 we visited Centuripe and Messina. The successful capture of Centuripe caused the entire enemy line up to Catania to crack and forced a withdrawal to a new position.

The end of the campaign was

accomplished at Messina, where a very successful operation was carried out against an enemy who had every advantage except one, that of air superiority.

That had been possessed by the Allies from the beginning.

It was a notable achievement of a combined land/sea/air technique which was to be a key

feature of all future operations of the Second World War. We paid our respects by placing a TSW wreath during a visit to the Commonwealth War Cemetery just outside of Catania, where we were able to locate the graves of two RAF Servicing Commandos SAC Bascombe and Fg Off Hamer.

PEOPLE

SANTA TAKES TO THE SKIES

OVER OXFORDSHIRE Written By: Fg Off Craig Rudyk-Smith

On a cold clear day in December RAF Benson hosted an important VIP.

S On our last day in Sicily, what else was there to do but hike Mount Etna! Mount Etna is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and at 3,357m is the highest high point of Sicily. It is a stratovolcano and one of the most active in the world, it dominates being visible from every point on the island.

Returning to lower levels it was time for pizza, pasta and

gelato before making our way back to MOD Stafford.

Reflecting on the skills and determination of the RAF Servicing Commandos we hoped we would find similar attributes in ourselves when we next deploy in support of our JHC colleagues bringing essential refuelling at remote Forward Refuelling Points.

anta was invited to join a training flight to experience flying from a different perspective.

With the help of 33 Squadron based at RAF Benson, Santa traded his sleigh and reindeer for a Puma helicopter and made a flying visit to Oxford Children’s Hospital to deliver presents to poorly children.

Benson personnel, their families, and local schools had donated more than 200 presents.

Having met the crew Santa was issued with some more appropriate headwear before taking part in essential safety and flight planning briefs.

Santa’s route saw him fly from RAF Benson passing by many of the schools in the local area where children rushed onto their playgrounds to cheer and wave as he flew by. Carrying sacks laden with presents he landed at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford where, with the help of Benson personnel, he handed out the gifts to young patients who couldn’t be at home at Christmas.

Benson said: ‘’These flights allow us to engage with nearly 6000 school children and showcase the best of the RAF whilst achieving RAF training objectives.

The impact on the children, at the schools, and Hospital, is priceless, and the team is honoured to represent the RAF’’.

The Benson Santa Drop is now in its 5th year and has become one of RAF Benson’s finest traditions. During this time more than 1000 presents have been given out to young hospital patients whilst bringing Christmas cheer to thousands of children in our local community. Low flying is an essential skill and combining this training sortie with a community activity is an excellent way to engage with our neighbours across Oxfordshire.

Organised by the Youth Activities Liaison Team at RAF Benson, the Santa Drop involved children from local schools right across the local area and donations from the RAF Benson service community.

Flight Lieutenant Northcote, RAF

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SPORT

REME PLYMOUTH JU JITSU TRAINING CAMP Written By: Capt Gooch, AAC

After a long drive from Wattisham to Plymouth our 11-man group arrived at the Citadel, home to 29 Commando Artillery and situated right on the coast.

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short walk from The Barbican Port and its beautiful pubs and restaurants, it was a stunning location (when it finally stopped raining!) and only a 20-minute drive from where we would be training for the week.

Having never done Ju Jitsu before my expectation was that it would be a very traditionally run martial art that would be heavily focused on learning through specific types of rehearsed sequences called Katas. Upon starting it was clear that it was steeped in tradition, however, Chris our main instructor for the week who had taught many a Marine and Police Officer before, was very keen to ensure his teachings placed the

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most emphasis on getting stuck in applying the techniques.

Chris expertly shaped our anticipated military enthusiasm and generated a syllabus for the week that focused on important but widely applicable throws, combinations and holds meaning that everyone came away with a firm understanding of the fundamentals of Ju Jitsu. Having previously had some experience of martial arts the privilege of a small instructor to student ratio was fantastic, allowing for frequent one on one coaching which is extremely rare in normal club environments. For myself this was particularly useful as I had struggled to grasp the best way to execute a wrist lock, which after 10 minutes of step-by-step

coaching, I was quickly able to pick up. The key take away for myself was the emphasis placed on the requirement to be flexible and rapidly adapt your techniques. When your opponent has a say outside of drills and your throw, shoulder or wrist lock would not work you had to move straight into your understood actions on in order to maintain momentum and still control your opponent – a mindset absolutely crucial to military actions from tactical through to strategic.

Overall, the week was absolutely fantastic, with Chris and his team helping teach and solidify the important basics of Ju Jitsu. An absolute privilege

to attend, I thoroughly recommend any one able should join the regularly run Martial Arts sessions at Wattisham, whether seeking to boost self-confidence or to learn self-defence, either way it’s fantastic phys!

PEOPLE

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IN THE 2024 NEW YEAR’S HONOURS LIST The following current and former JHC personnel have been recognised in the 2024 New Year’s Honours List.

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First Sea Lord Commendation Lt Cdr N Dale Chief of the General Staff Commendation Capt J Billington

Flt Lt J R Hicks Fg Off (now Flt Lt) O F Barrow WO1 AET I Toms WO1 AET C Harvey WO2 A K Peters WO2 B A Millar A/WO R M Coleman CPO AET R L Willis FS M P Staley FS C Jenkinson Chf Tech L Margetson Sgt E Mason PO AET D R Sanderson A/Sgt P L A Blakeman L Cpl S H Standring Mr J Doncaster Mr K Woodgate 845 Naval Air Squadron Engineering Support Team (Team Commendation) Merlin Mk4 Synthetic Training Equipment Facility (MSTEF) (Team Commendation) Command Troop – 1 Regt AAC (Team Commendation)

Chief of the Air Staff Commendation Sqn Ldr P Grubb

Simulator Weapons and Electronic Warfare Instructors – 1 Avn BCT ATTACK (Team Commendation)

Deputy Chief of the General Staff Commendation Flt Lt S Bennison

18(B) Squadron Op PELEDA Engineers (Team Commendation)

Commander Field Army Commendation WO1 L Elliott

27 Sqn Engineers deployed in support of DAT(I), Op SHADER (Team Commendation)

Commander Joint Helicopter Command Commendation Lt Cdr B C Brazenall Maj A King Maj T R Kent Maj B C Lee Lt RN S P Bloomer Lt RN J G Wallace Capt (US Army) J Webb Flt Lt K Ripley Flt Lt M A Williams Flt Lt G E Cone

Air Officer Commanding No 2 Group Commendation Flt Lt M Z Allman-Jeffery Flt Lt C J Northcote A/FS K D Ford Chf Tech F A Williams Sgt A B Towse Miss M Wickett Air Officer Commanding No 22 Group Commendation Flt Lt T Knapp

LANDING ZONE / ISSUE 3, 2023/24 27

PEOPLE

RAF BENSON REMEMBERS Written By: WO Warren MBE

Having spent the vast majority of my Royal Air Force Service at RAF Benson it was a real honour to be appointed as Station Warrant Officer (SWO) in Oct 23.

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aving already served for 34 years it will be a fitting end to my career and hopefully give something back to a Station that has served me so well over the years.

As I reflect on my first 2 months in the job it has certainly been a ‘baptism of fire’. I thought that the experience gained as a Warrant Officer in the aircraft engineering profession would stand be in great stead for my new role. I am sure this has helped, but having no formal training for SWO, and despite a thorough handover from my predecessor, I embarked on what has been the toughest 2 months of my career.

Since taking up post and adapting to a completely new role, Oct and Nov was almost wholly dedicated to preparing for and delivering Remembrance events. Although having clearly taken part in many Remembrance activities the organisation of them was completely alien to me and I had little idea of how much was involved.

Early in Nov I attended the Oxfordshire Royal British Legion Poppy Appel Launch

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at Blenheim Palace whilst an all-ranks team of personnel led by Flt Lt Robinson headed to London Poppy Day selling poppies at busy railway stations supporting the aim to raise £1 million in 12 hours.

RAF Benson has a long tradition of engagement with our local communities and the many local Acts of Remembrance are a key feature in the unit’s diary.

With 3 parades and the laying of a further 10 wreaths almost simultaneously the planning and co-ordination of the separate events proved particularly challenging. The writing of Admin Orders, liaising with local constabulary, RAF police, Parish Councillors, rehearsals & recces all provided a steep learning curve. Our local communities

really appreciate the presence of military personnel at their events and our personnel are justly proud to take part.

There was also the Station Remembrance Service to organise. As with the majority of military organisations personnel paraded as a unit at 1100 on 11 November to pause,

reflect and remember during a service lead by Padre Stephens.

Over 500 personnel formed up in the Puma Force Hangar with 2 aircraft providing the backdrop for the Service. It was a particularly poignant moment when observing the 2 mins silence.

The outstanding ceremonial team at Benson played a crucial role in the success of these events.

Delivering drill instruction to joint service flights of marching troops, ensuring standards of uniform were suitably high and providing some welcome words of advice to the new man in charge.

If my first couple of months are anything to go by I can honestly say I am looking forward to what the new job has for me next.

LANDING ZONE / ISSUE 3, 2023/24 29

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