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2 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 3 FOREWORD LZ CELEBRATING 20 YEARS MEET THE TEAM

CONTENTS ISSUE 1 2020 EDITORIAL Editor: Sqn Ldr Joan Ochuodho E: [email protected] JHC HISTORY T: 01264 381178 Operations Across All Boundaries. 06 – History Of Joint Helicopter Support SALES Squadron...... 26 elcome to this bumper, Sales Manager: Laurence Rowe 20th Anniversary Royal Air Force Tactical Supply Wing 28 E: [email protected] edition of LZ - I’m sure T: 01536 334218 you will enjoy it. Having HONOURS & AWARDS 06 been an SO2 in the 80th Anniversary Awards Evening. 18 – original JHC HQ in 1999, DESIGNER commanded a JHC squadron and a Force, HISTORIC REFLECTIONS Designer: Amanda Robinson W Fixed Wing MAS Transfers to the RAF 21 E: [email protected] and been the 1* Capability Director, I hope I’m reasonably well qualified to pen this Look Back: When Two Become One 30 T: 01536 334226 short introduction. 661 Squadron Op CABRIT...... 46 – PUBLISHER PEOPLE I’m immensely proud of what the JHC has Lance Print Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby Some Images Celebrating 20 Years Of achieved during its existence. Continuously House, Bath Road, Kettering, deployed overseas on operations as well JHC Personnel and Equipment...... 32 Northants NN16 8NL as being always prepared for UK resilience British Army Tactical Unmanned T: 01536 334222 and counter terrorism operations, we Aircraft System (TUAS)...... 36 have nonetheless adapted as the strategic Celebrating Our Reserve Squadrons 40 E: [email protected] environment has changed. From global I Learn’t About Flying From W: www.lanceprint.co.uk Commander Joint Helicopter Command, Rear 32 That Article...... 50 – Admiral Jonathan Pentreath CB OBE. power projection (Sierra Leone), through war-fighting (Iraq) and counter-insurgency 47 Regiment (RA) Change of Beret PRINTER (Iraq/Afghanistan), our RW Forces (and 16 Air Parade...... 54 Lance Print Ltd, 29/30 Stapledon Road, Assault Brigade when under JHC command) 6 AAC D - Day 75th “Run To Orton Southgate, Peterborough PE2 6TD The Bridges”...... have always achieved what’s been asked of 60 T: 01733 390 564 them. And now, as we enter an era of state E: [email protected] OPERATIONS on state competition, we have again moved W: www.lanceprint.co.uk with the times. Our deployments of Apache, Exercise Wyvern Tor 2019...... 42 – Wildcat, Chinook and Merlin across Europe in FURTHER INFORMATION 2019 have been a demonstration of modern TRAINING deterrence, forward presence, flexibility and Formation of the JHC Aviation...... 39 W: www.mod.uk/defenceinternet/ adaptability - all good in vogue terms as we Milestone For The UK Military Flying aboutdefence/whatwedo/ prepare for a new Government and possibly Training Systems (UKMFTS)...... 52 airsafetyandaviation/jhc a SDSR in 2020. – SPORT 42 COVER CREDIT And none of this would be possible without The Nijmegen March 47 REGT RA. © MoD Crown Copyright a professional, dedicated and committed Local Rugby team Enjoys Team workforce - whether Army, Royal Navy, Royal Building Day At RAF Odiham...... 22 Air Force, Civil Servant or Contractor. Despite EX Suffolk Rambler...... 62 many gapping challenges, shortages of spares or lack of tooling, you continue to CHARITY deliver, and I’m immensely proud of you all. Katherine House Hospice...... 17

And so, as we look back over the past 20 years, we shouldn’t dwell for too long on our many successes, but should instead properly learn the lessons, so that we are better able 52 to meet the challenges of the next 20 years - for I can guarantee there will be many. Be challenging, be questioning, be innovative, but above all be professional.

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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 OPERATIONS ACROSS ALL BOUNDARIES LANDING ZONE it. Views Expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Royal Air Force or the Ministry of Defence. All images © Crown Copyright unless otherwise stated.

4 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 200 YEARS 2020 5 Paul Tedman, Deputy Commander JHC, rotary assets at one end of the scale, with new fleet of Apache AH-64E Helicopters who took over from Brigadier Mike team work and training at the other, whilst to that of the UK’s future F-35B fleet. Keating CBE in October this year. They ensuring its long-term goals are consistent Against this background, the good news provide higher command and control, and with the MoD at both the micro and is that JHC’s proactive forward thinking OPERATIONS management to JHC`s subordinate units, macro level. has largely managed to avoid past fleet as well as interfacing with the Ministry cliff edges by modernising key assets of Defence (MoD) and overseas military This sounds relatively straightforward but within its wider fleet. The next five-year ACROSS ALL BOUNDARIES commands and agencies. investing for the future is no longer simple period will be important in this respect as the current economic climate dictates as legacy aircraft are retired (Apache JOINT FORCE 25 that future investment must be balanced AH-64D, Gazelle AH1), major upgrade Context is very important when assessing and appropriate. A good example of this programmes are completed (Merlin HC4), Article & Photos: Ian Harding. and analysing the direction of change came during quarter three 2017 when new assets are acquired (Apache AH-64E within JHC following the cessation of every MoD capability came under pressure and Chinook CH-47 Extended Range) and he world as we knew it in Northern Ireland (Operation Banner war-fighting. The aim of the guidance to cut costs. Things looked painful! Even existing assets receive new equipment to changed that day and the 1969-2007). Almost immediately following which followed SDSR 2015 and the though no cuts ensued, the stark reality is extend their operational capability and UK, like most global powers, the cessation of combat operations in Comprehensive Defence Spending Review that a clear precedent had been set. effectiveness (Commando Wildcat Battle have been dealing with the Afghanistan in 2014, JHC had to reset its was essentially to map out a broad range Reconnaissance Helicopter). consequences ever since. objectives to meet the requirements of of strategies to ensure JHC’s objectives In seeking funds for future investment, as the Strategic Defence and Security Review were aligned and coherent across the well demonstrating need and capability Funding competition is easily understood TAt the forefront of the United Kingdom’s (SDSR) 2015. This proved a catalyst for MoD. Following years of campaigning, JHC generation, JHC must demonstrate value but managing strategic shifts it is not When one considers contingent defence capability since it was change with JHC working with the Army had to reset its operations and assets for for money. This is not easy when nobody simply about money. It is more about formed two years before 9/11 on October Headquarters Air Manoeuvre Capability important events contingency and what was known as ‘Joint can predict with certainty what the changing attitudes, re-shaping and 5, 1999, Joint Helicopter Command (JHC) Director and others, to meet the objectives Force 25’. Essentially this meant it would future holds, and competition exists for implementing structures and practices that have changed has successfully brought together the of the UK Ministry of Defence Strategic take JHC until 2025 to meet its objectives, funding. With so much media attention to improve methodology across the our world in recent battlefield helicopters and air assault force Guidance 2016 and the Comprehensive which from a land perspective is to have a on the arrival of HMS Queen Elizabeth; operational and logistical spectrum. The years, it is hard elements of the Royal Navy, Army Air Corps Defence Spending Review. divisional war fighting capability based on the UKs first new aircraft carrier, and the environments in which JHC helicopters and Royal Air Force and integrated their a full-size division, expeditionary air wings fifth-generation Lockheed Martin F-35Bs and personnel operate are increasingly to think beyond core helicopter tasks defined as Lift, Find A key part of the JHC’s evolution process combining the UK’s Air Force capabilities Lightning IIs which will operate from her contested and congested and the the horrific 9/11 and Attack, with the air assault capability involved changing its training techniques plus a Naval carrier strike group. deck, it is no surprise attention has been enemy is often faceless and unknown. terrorist attacks in of 16 Air Assault Brigade (16AAB) under to prepare for future operations in a much deflected away from the rotary fleet and Considerations now are less about one command. This structure remained broader range of environments, all the the United States To meet its objectives, JHC introduced a the utility it provides. In this environment, how squadrons and personnel protect until November 2015 when 16AAB moved while forward planning its capability to wide-reaching ten-year recapitalisation it is important to stress just how important themselves in these situations, and more and the devastating to be under the command of Commander 2030 and beyond. This involved managing programme which would impact on JHC’s rotary assets have been during the about how they destroy their target and impact they would Field Army. the UK’s largest ever rotary re-equipment every frontline helicopter. This strategy past 20 years and the fantastic value and fight their way in to the battle. Fighting to have on future programme, which has proven an extremely developed further with the recent transfer utility provided by its helicopter force and get to the fight requires new techniques For much of its 20-year history, JHC and its demanding process but ultimately, the global events. of JHC’s fixed wing component to the RAF personnel at both the high warfighting and a different mindset. Connectivity and subordinate units were engaged in war- abundant spirit and teamwork displayed (Britten Norman Islander/Defender) and end and within the wider operational interoperability with key partners and allies fighting overseas in Iraq (Operation Telic) by personnel at all levels has ensured JHC taking command of Watchkeeper; an spectrum from disaster relief to maritime is essential in this model and this helps and Afghanistan (Operation Enduring operational requirements have been unmanned aerial surveillance system. operations. Perhaps this is a time to explain why the procurement of the Apache Freedom/Veritas initially and then Herrick) met. Located at Army Headquarters, highlight that without the Commando AH-64E for example is so important, why as a direct consequence of the 9/11 attacks. Marlborough Lines in Andover, JHC currently At a time of global economic uncertainty, Merlin HC4’s, Royal Navy’s Merlin HM2 Defensive Aids Suite (DAS) development Much closer to home, its forces were also employs approximately 8,500 personnel, making these necessary technological and the other rotary components which and wider fleet modernisation is not just operating under difficult circumstances led by Commander JHC, Rear Admiral adjustments to keep equipment in line form the Aviation Task Force 2, there is focused on present capability, why training supporting the Royal Ulster Constabulary Jonathan Pentreath OBE CB, and Brigadier with key partner nations such as the no carrier strike for example. Similarly, techniques and decision making structures United States (Apache and Chinook), from a capital expenditure perspective, including C2 continue to reset and change. avoiding equipment ‘cliff edges’, all the one cannot compare the cost of the Before considering the contingent while demonstrating worth and value for money when all Government spending is under the spot light, has not been easy. In common with the rest of the MoD, JHC has not been in a position where it could simply increase manpower and rotary numbers. It therefore had to evolve and develop capability in a manner years of land campaigning would not allow.

NAVIGATING STRATEGIC SHIFTS To survive and thrive, an organisation has to navigate strategic shifts to find new sources of competitive advantage using the assets and personnel under its control. Compared to the first part of its history when minds were focused on specific and known events, JHC mindset has changed to reflect a new era of operations, all the while recognising the financial constraints it is under. Its investment has been multi- faceted; command and control (C2) and

6 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 7 environment and recapitalisation programme, operational campaigns is stark. One’s first The lessons learned during Operation continue to adapt and evolve its thinking the MoD. Making decisions in a relatively in terms of providing clear insight. we should reflect on the warfighting years instinct is always remembering those Herrick were painful, but they have to remain effective. This final point short time period, moving from a period of One definition of contingency is: and the lessons learned, painful as they personnel and loved ones who made the helped shape understanding and future is critical. intense war-fighting into an environment might be. ultimate sacrifice, those injured and scarred, preparedness. As a Force, it is clear which was less certain but equally “MILITARY ACTIVITY, INCLUDING the lives saved by the Medical Emergency JHC and its subordinate units grew up One of the major challenges in the dangerous, was not easy. Generating WARFIGHTING Response Teams (MERT) and the honours tremendously in terms of professionalism contingent environment is helping future contingent capability throughout JHC was BUT NOT RESTRICTED JHC learned a lot about the capabilities bestowed on individuals for acts of bravery. and dealing with very high levels of air and ground crew understand what to essential and the challenges broadly fell TO THE APPLICATION OF of its structure, the qualities of its aircrew, From an operational perspective, the sheer combat and risk. The courage displayed expect going forward, how to conduct into five categories: FORCE, UNDERTAKEN IN engineers, medical and numerous tactical scale of the campaign effort made by JHC by so many in the front and rear of the themselves, deal with operational risk RESPONSE TO CRISIS ARISING support teams who performed admirably and its subordinate units during Operation aircraft is truly awe inspiring, as was the and the mental issues, and ultimately to Managing structural change including OUT OF CIRCUMSTANCES throughout its challenging campaigns Herrick is reflected in flying hours statistics incredible efforts made by the engineers, succeed safely within a more uncertain that within C2, Completion of the ten- in Iraq and Afghanistan. The operational which show just how hard personnel and ground technicians, mobile air operations operational environment. A key ingredient year recapitalisation and modernisation THAT CANNOT BE FULLY lessons learned during these campaigns the aircraft worked. During this campaign, and other tactical support teams in this understanding is the provision of plan of almost the entire helicopter fleet, ANTICIPATED, PLANNED OR are being used to good effect to prepare the total flying hours completed by its without whom air operations would not realistic training which helps develop Re-setting the framework of contingency TRAINED FOR WITH RESPECT for the global contingent environment. five main battlefield support helicopters be possible. understanding between colleagues on training and operations, Ensuring the TO ENVIRONMENT, SCALE, amounted to approximately 140,800 hours; the front line and decision makers within Force is manned sufficiently with suitably TIMING OR NATURE OF THE During almost fourteen years of the composition of which was: Outside the cockpit, important lessons C2. This in turn helps everyone to fully qualified and experienced people, Ensuring campaigning, JHC knew who their main were also learned in terms of battlefield understand the capability of their aircraft the Force is inclusive with a structure ADVERSARY OR PARTNERS.” opponents were, understood the broad Apache 49,800 and air mobility management. Most and build trust. The bottom line is you that helps build and nurture talent profile of their missions and could plan Chinook 41,000 notably, the contribution of rotary wing can have the most up to date aircraft within a framework which is consistent This new operational paradigm was logistics and training requirements with Lynx 19,500 ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target in the world, but if you do not have the and understood. summed up perfectly by one former some certainty. The current situation has Merlin 18,000 Acquisition and Reconnaissance) and best people to fly or service them, to man Commanding Officer JHC who said; changed markedly, and global militaries Sea King 12,500 the hugely successful development of helicopter landing sites, to refuel them out Whilst the external focus is often on “We basically have to consider how we are now operating within an operational medical emergency response and casualty in the field, you do not have capability. the capability of the equipment and conduct operations against a belligerent climate which requires a different These combined efforts transported evacuation which will never be forgotten. Having sufficient number of the right systems employed, this is a ‘people we don`t know, with an unknown threat approach. JHC and its subordinate approximately 720,000 personnel and So many important relationships were also people, skilled and training in the right business’ and focus must always be on level, in an unknown environment and units are therefore preparing for future 54,674,645 pounds (24,800,000kg) of formed with key allies which will never be manner is the key to success. History shows providing personnel with the opportunity with ‘friends’ we don`t know either. In operations in a much broader range of cargo. Over 125,900,000 litres of fuel forgotten. Many other aspects (perhaps that JHC is blessed with fantastic people. to succeed. addition, the Future Character of Conflict environments working alongside its allies. were used performing these operations include examples) including planning Again, this is not just about money. will be congested, cluttered, contested, Reflecting on any campaign especially as well as those undertaken by the MERT. and logistics support have been taken CONTINGENT OPERATIONS connected and constrained. We will work one like Operation Herrick in the broader Further evidence of the tremendous forward and now form a key part of JHCs NEW PARADIGM Despite being a widely used term within alongside allies or partners when we can, sense is never easy because it evokes so battlefield support provided by aircrew operational philosophy. The experience The aim of SDSR 2015 and the Strategic Defence circles, contingency has no but this backdrop could be different. The many painful and difficult memories. is reflected in the near 14,000 battlefield gained in the Middle East and at home will Guidance 2016 which followed was to map formal or definitive definition. Many most likely area for our future operations The realities for those individuals who casualties rescued and the award of never be forgotten, but the contingent out a broad range of strategies to ensure definitions exist but the reality is the based on current events will be the Middle served so admirably during these 24 DFCs (Distinguished Flying Cross). environment is very different and JHC will objectives are aligned and coherent across operational ‘crystal ball’ is quite cloudy East and North Africa but these will likely

8 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 9 be for short periods of time rather than very effective fighting force. At a platform to counter whatever the UKs enemies campaigning. This will require our forces level, everyone broadly knew what an throw at us and also how JHC plans to to be comfortable with uncertainty, Apache, Chinook or Sea King mission fight its new helicopters in the future, but conceptually agile and physically flexible looked like in Afghanistan for example, also to ensure it has sufficient numbers to deal with complex environments and but this does not hold true now. The of skilled air and ground crew to meet unclear outcomes”. contingent environment is very different future demands. Following the extensive and JHC’s training approach is now more overseas campaigns, it was no surprise The reality for the MoD policy makers, JHC, refined in keeping with its concept of that some experienced aircrew made the and the UKs allies in this environment is future war fighting and countering peer decision to leave and seek new challenges. that they must prepare as best they can for and near peer threats. Whilst the focus This created an experience shortfall every eventuality. It is simply impossible to might have been predominantly on single which had to be addressed as a matter of have a contingent plan which meets every platform training in the past because urgency. Whilst experience is not easily eventuality because generating capability the environment was permissive with replaced, contingent operations and the is costly and unfortunately perfect little or no resistance to UK forces being introduction of new digital aircraft requires foresight does not exist. Policymakers have based in Afghanistan say, policymakers air and ground crew to have different skills. to make their best judgement and decide acknowledge the UK may no longer enjoy In particular, the capacity to multi-task, to how good they want their military to be that privilege going forward. For a force to manage an increased array of information and allocate funds accordingly. It might achieve its future objectives, it may need inside the aircraft, to receive information be possible to maintain a high state of to ‘fight’ to get there. This requires greater from different platforms and to disseminate readiness 24/7 with assets to meet every strategic thought which helps explain why data effectively, to have good judgement potential eventuality but this carries a C2 is rightly considered a capability in and then to make the right decisions. The high cost. itself. A vital function of JHC is therefore only way this can be achieved is to replicate planning, logistics and generally thinking potential operational environments as far Going forward we must train how we outside the cockpit. Basically, how do the as possible. This has been achieved by expect to fight. Although history helps to rotary components and the supply chain providing the best training programmes a degree, comparing future contingent they need contribute to the game plan, available backed up with short and operations with those experienced in Iraq how does this open up access to preserve intense detachments to many different and Afghanistan is largely impossible. a force and ensuring they have the mass countries. JHC and its subordinate units During those major multi-national to engage the target. At the macro-level, are now training alone and with allies campaigns, rotary units mainly operated discussions between the MoD and JHC how they think they will fight in the future from a single base enabling logistics to in general is more about capabilities as rather than how it used to be done. Times be centralised and working alongside a whole rather than individual platform have changed. allies with standard operating procedures centric issues which dominated in the requires them. Fixing the operational embarked Commando Merlin, Wildcat from the limited assets at its disposal. which were relatively clear. Combat levels past. What is more important is the totality TRAINING AGILITY capability of an individual platform to BRH and Apache to establish a maritime JHC has therefore prioritised its training were high, and units generally knew who of the rotary package rather than what If we have learned anything about our one purpose ultimately constrains choice. flank. The initial challenge on receiving operations based on the perceived threat their opponent was. The threat level was rotary assets can do in isolation as the MoD rotary assets during the past 20 years, it A good example of this is when CHF new helicopters is learning how to fly levels and having considered the needs also relatively unsophisticated. Training for generally does not fight single platforms. is that they will be in constant demand to and 845 Naval Air Squadron embarked them. Much of this work has now been of each environment; desert, arctic, this was considered relatively easy in some fulfil a range of operational requirements upon HMS Queen Elizabeth with its new completed and the emphasis is now on temperate etcetera, whilst its personnel respects. The environment was harsh, but JHCs and its subordinate units training over land or at sea, from war fighting to Commando Merlin HC4’s during Westlant the challenge of teaming and fighting have embraced new technology, adjusting everyone understood its demands; mainly must reflect this new paradigm. It is providing humanitarian relief in every 18 to support the UK’s first of class F-35B new helicopters together; Apache their mentality to meet the needs of each hot and high with degraded vision. Training business as usual in many respects, corner of the world. The new fleet of Lightning II trials. What this did was unlock and Wildcat in the and environment, environment. To ensure JHC’s forces have for these major land campaigns also although the tempo and diversity helicopters at JHC’s disposal have multiple a number of the Squadron’s secondary Commando Merlin and Apache in the the required operational dexterity, the followed a well-defined format with a pre- of training has changed as has the capabilities and what this does is provide littoral capabilities namely joint personnel littoral environment for example. Within ability to change roles quickly across a deployment package and mission specific component elements operating within the the MoD with choice. The key is therefore recovery and deployed search and rescue. training, junior mission commanders, diverse range of operational environments training (Mission Rehearsal Exercises on structure of the exercises and deployments training and unlocking these capabilities Highlighting the agility of individual assets logistics officers, aircrew and ground most notably from the sea to the land Salisbury Plain) which turned people into a undertaken. This reflects in part the need in the different environments the MoD allied with the skill sets of those who technicians must understand the intents and back again, its current training fly and support them is essential going of their training, which in turn helps them uses state of the art techniques and is forward. Operation Cabrit (Estonia, Poland) build the mindset, mentality, confidence, dynamic. Conscious decisions have been and Exercise Baltic protector (Denmark, understanding and judgement to take taken to practice skills and refocus minds Baltics) are two perfect examples where decisions when required. Good training on training which was not required in JHC exploited single training evolutions helps create trust and confidence and part Afghanistan. Training operatives for future for multiple outputs. of that is understanding that individuals ‘contested’ missions means learning cannot be an expert in everything. The aim how to fight their way into the fight and Whilst RAF Typhoons patrolled the skies of this training is ensuring that personnel how to counter a kinetic threat within a above Estonia as part of the UKs Baltic achieve core competencies and they then degraded environment; one degraded Air Policing mission, Army Wildcats and have the confidence to trust the chain in terms of jamming, electronic warfare, Apache helicopters deployed to Estonia of command to experiment and apply communications etcetera. This could apply as part of NATOs Enhanced Forward the skills learned. Personnel must not be in all theatres and countries of instability Presence battlegroup. Following this, scared to fail. Only by experimenting, will around the world. Apaches attended live firing exercises in they learn and come back stronger. Poland and in Germany on their return to The structure of deployments has changed the UK supported by convoy moves and APPLIED PRAGMATISM in line with this outlook. Deployments are the pre-positioning of FARPs. During the In some respects, working out what does now more frequent, but the number of UK led Joint Expeditionary Force exercise and does not work from an operational days personnel spend away from home Baltic Protector involving 18 nations; an perspective in the contingent land is closely monitored to ensure it does not exercise to test NATOs ability to respond environment is an applied science. exceed prescribed maximum levels. The rapidly to a crisis in the Baltic region, JHC Mathematics also has a role to play when opportunities for air and ground crew to successfully deployed C2 capability and determining the outputs JHC can derive undertake a diverse and interesting range

10 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 11 of training is huge now. There are many accused of choosing bespoke equipment for success across its rotary fleet, and FIND Within Find, the use of drones and other In the past, UK Defence has been accused good examples of this. Having returned over more cost-efficient alternatives; then exploit them across the totality of its JHC’s dedicated ‘Find’ asset is the unmanned aerial vehicles will continue to of being too bespoke in terms of its re- from three months deployed aboard HMS Boeing Chinook HC3 acquisition for fleet to highlight the marginal benefits to Commando Wildcat BRH which provides grow from a tactical perspective. Central to equipment which proved expensive in Queen Elizabeth in the United States example. JHC have therefore been careful the MoD. commanders with a fully integrated this is Watchkeeper which finally achieved the case of the HC5 variant. This has been during August 2018, the Merlin Force when prioritising capabilities to ensure aviation ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, full operational capability in November addressed with Chinook converging more moved to the Arctic to complete their platforms and modifications procured AVIATION TASK FORCE 2 Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance) 2018 some eight years after its first flight. with the United States following the HC6 winter and mountain training before meet specific needs, recognising they Just as important as fleet recapitalisation capability. Wildcat provides JHC with After numerous delays, this positive move purchase and latterly with the extended heading off to Denmark and the Baltic cannot meet every requirement. Context is has been the formation of the Aviation a state-of-the-art C2 which delivers has finally allowed 47 Regiment Royal range addition. The United States is a States in 2019 (Exercise Baltic Protector) again important. Task Force 2 (ATF2). It would be easy to advantage at both the tactical and Artillery to commence training ahead of key ally of the United Kingdom and our for further training with allies. think of this as lines of single platform operational level. Although optimised the systems full release to service which interoperability benefits from having Acknowledging that funding is in short capability, but the reality is it represents for ISTAR, Wildcat BRH is a multi-role will enable the operational envelope to similar aircraft. OPERATIONAL SAFETY supply and competition is high, JHC have much more. C2 provided by JHC is the asset fulfilling a range of roles including be expanded further. Drones are here to Flight safety regulations have heightened actively persued operational avenues of capability that brings the ATF2 to life. limited troop and material movement, stay and ultimately JHC’s use of them will With some of our oldest Chinooks dating following a number of tragic aviation success which in turn, helps demonstrate In the littoral environment for example, escort and force protection, offensive depend on the operation and the level from 1981, it was inefficient having so incidents resulting in the loss of life; Puma why additional investment might be C2 understands the capability of each action and direction of fires, airborne of risk it is willing to accept. Drones are many variant Marks and essentially fleets crash in 2007 and Lynx in 2014 for example. necessary in specific areas; Wildcat BRH platform, the personnel operating them forward air control (FAC(A)) and naval gun more expendable, but it is still important within a fleet. During recent years, JHCs The role of the Military Aviation Authority for example. When Wildcat BRH made and the domain which they need to support. Using its sophisticated sensors, ‘man’ stays in the loop to assess the focus has been to rationalise and upgrade (MAA) is to ensure safety is respected at its service introduction, it was wrongly plug into. These joint capabilities will be integrated avionics, world-class camera tactical situation, use their judgment to the legacy fleet to improve operational all times, albeit some external media has considered a Lynx replacement based adapted, adding assets depending on and secure communications, Wildcat BRH take decisions and to disseminate data capability and safety, firstly with a digital questioned if the increased regulation seen on its looks, when really it is a highly the operational demand. It is difficult to can identify and designate targets, guide collected effectively. Wildcat is a key asset cockpit (Project Julius) and secondly, post Afghanistan has stifled operations at sophisticated replacement for Gazelle imagine any scenario nowadays over land and direct battlefield troop movements and during the past two years especially, introducing Digital Automatic Flight times. This is an emotive subject. There with the potential to do more. It is only or sea where Commando Helicopter Force, and deliver heavy machine gun fire if 847 NAS have expanded the aircrafts Control System (DAFCS) across the non- have been occasions in the past when now when its capability is being unlocked Support Helicopter Force or the Army Air required. Despite these positive aspects, operational envelope exponentially, HC6 Fleet. This modernisation process has British forces have achieved significant through teaming with Apache, providing Corps would fight as a single entity. Future Wildcat has additional capability which generating JHC’s first littoral capability. been completed. operational advantage from ‘seat of the joint fires, forward air control and naval propositions will be joint, and JHC provides could be unlocked with the addition of pants’ flying during war fighting but gun support that policymakers and the the C2 capability which unlocks this joint the same radar which equips the Royal LIFT Operational safety is paramount and there times have changed. The overbidding wider community outside JHC are starting capability. However, it is more than just Navy’s Wildcat HM2 variant, secure data Chinook will remain the mainstay of JHCs is little doubt the introduction of DAFCS sense now is that the MAA has created a to appreciate its true ‘value’. JHC and an umbrella organisation that joins and link and extended range fuel tanks. future heavy-lift capability supported amongst the Chinook fleet has improved regulation structure across UK Defence the squadrons flying Wildcat BRH have unlocks subordinate unit capabilities. Working in concert with Apache (Legacy by Merlin and Puma 2 which both have operational safety providing aircrew with which is understood, accepted and works. been working extremely hard to build Its wider function during an era of AH-64D currently and the new AH-64E in bespoke roles; Merlin within Commando enhanced handling qualities and aircraft Regulation is especially important when greater understanding of the capability a constant change, when there is genuine the future), Wildcat and Apache will team Helicopter Force for example. The Chinook stability within the degraded visual new aircraft are being introduced and sophisticated reconnaissance helicopter competition from other government together to find and profligate targets. Force currently comprises 60 aircraft and environment conditions encountered in aircrew move from flying to fighting the brings to the battlefield, and this is agencies for funds, is to find economies of three variants (HC4, 5 and 6), the most the desert and arctic. These improvements aircraft. Being able to exploit a platform fully helping with the discussions on enhancing scale and to seek out areas of opportunity As the Royal Navy prepares to commence recent acquisitions being 14 HC6 aircraft include more stable low speed approach is about achieving the right competencies Wildcat BRH going forward in terms of its where it can bring capability to bear testing of its Light and Heavy Future which were delivered by the end of 2015. and hover modes based on high grade and this can only be achieved if the right connectivity, protection and endurance. quickly and efficiently. Individual units are Anti-Surface Guided Weapons (FASGW) Such is the platforms success, a further 16 radar altimeter and inertial/GPS references environment is created. unable to do this. weapons, similar weapons would boost the CH-47 extended range aircraft with specific which aircrew can maintain without visual The platform is so versatile, future Wildcat BRHs capability further although equipment which will support special references. This materially improves the The fleet of new digital helicopters help discussions on enhancements will RECAPITALISATION further weaponisation is not a priority. operations, were ordered in October 2018. operational capability of the legacy fleet. aircrew greatly in this respect from a system hopefully conclude depending on priority. The aim of the largest rotary re-equipment perspective, but it is equally important If it is the land environment then it is about programme ever undertaken is to cement that safety does not become too much of connectivity, if it is littoral, endurance is JHC’s position as one of the global premier a science as this could stifle operational what matters. In both environments, the rotary forces, and to ensure its forces capability and inhibit flight safety. The utility achieved from adding capability can meet whatever the world throws at structure now is more professional with a is not in doubt. On the battlefield, the them. In the face of this serious change training structure which encourages the situational awareness of a future battle programme, one should not forget that right culture and rightly makes people force would be enhanced greatly if Wildcat some long-term rotary stalwarts have been stop and think before doing something. BRH could manoeuvre around it with withdrawn from service recently; most The extensive specialised training and radar working in conjunction with its notably Sea King HC4 and Lynx AH7/AH9A. exercise programmes implemented by outstanding camera. The same applies in We owe a huge debt of gratitude to those JHC, using increasing simulation where the littoral context where JHC are in the airframes and the personnel who flew possible, helps mitigate against this early stages of understanding precisely and supported them. JHC also operates possibility. The modern flying environment what the concept is and marrying this some smaller, niche fleets that undertake simply does not support the notion of ‘seat with its strategic ambitions for a future some very demanding tasks. These include of the pants’ flying any more. commando force. The arrival of the Queen the Gazelle undertaking surveillance in Elizabeth class carriers from 2018 has Northern Ireland, and the Bell 212 which VALUE FOR MONEY provided a step change in JHC’s ability to supports JHCs jungle warfare capability Whilst ensuring its subordinate units have project battlefield helicopter capability in in Brunei. There are also tactical refuellers the best equipment available to meet this environment. During this new era of operating in the Falkland Islands. long-term demands, JHC have focused on carrier development, JHC’s helicopters and maximising the number of aircraft available personnel are fundamental to generating JHC’s rotary platforms fit into three to the front-line. This subtle refinement is future capability. The introduction of HMS categories; Find, Lift and Attack. In the necessary to ensuring JHC not only meets Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales Land environment, JHC’s long term rotary the demands on its resources but also that represent a massive undertaking for UK capability will be based around Apache, it provides ‘value for money’ when the Defence and the Royal Navy in particular. Chinook, Puma 2 and Wildcat. In the ‘value’ of every pound spent is scrutinised. There is a long way to go before these Littoral environment, capability will be The objective is to avoid previous painful ambitions are fulfilled, but in the meantime, based around Apache, Chinook, Merlin lessons when the MoD was understandably JHC will continue to persue opportunities and Wildcat.

12 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 13 which it can be deployed. Its operational Helicopter Force air and ground crew to The aim of the avionics upgrade is to create More recently, 845 NAS deployed three strengths are two aircraft can fit inside a the Merlin. Part one of this process was common functionality with the Royal Navy`s Commando Merlin’s aboard RFAs Lyme C-17 Globemaster II and can be rebuilt completed when command for the Merlin Merlin HM HM2 and Wildcat fleet. Future Bay and Argus to work alongside the and ready for operations within four fleet was transferred to the Royal Navy in modifications will likely include air-to-air Royal Marines of 45 Commando and 30 hours, its Lift capacity and its speed of a ceremony at Benson on September 30, refueling capability to extend its endurance Commando during exercise Baltic Protector; transportation. The upgraded vehicle is 2014. This move saw the first RAF Merlin further during carrier deployments. stage one of which tested the UK led a very flexible asset providing battlefield squadron (78 Squadron) disband and the Joint Expeditionary Force off the Danish lift capability, casualty evacuation and Royal Navy’s Merlin training squadron (846 Phase 1 of this programme saw seven coast before moving into the Baltic to fulfilling resupply requirements. NAS) stand up. Having operated as part of HC3`s upgraded to HC3i (interim) standard participate in the United States led Baltops Commando Helicopter Force for an interim to enable initial embarked operations. exercise. 845 NAS will play a pivotal role MERLIN period, 28(AC) passed its operational reins Completed in early 2016, this upgrade aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth later this Replacing the much loved ‘Junglie’ Sea to 845 NAS in July 2015 who then returned included a folding main rotor head, fast year during Westlant 19; an exercise which King HC4 was never going to be an easy to their spiritual home at Yeovilton in June roping capability, modified undercarriage will focus more on operational flying task. In terms of complexity, Merlin’s 2016. 845 NAS returned in March 2015. for flight deck operations, new lashing working as a carrier task group rather than transition from the RAF to Royal Navy points and enhanced communications. just supporting basic F-35B flight training. service, coupled with number of variants In all respects, this period proved a testing and subsequent life sustainment upgrade period for Commando Helicopter Force The final part of the MLSP will conclude ATTACK programme, is not dissimilar to that of with all its aircraft effectively changing around 2022. At present, 9 of the 25 The Apache AH1 (based on the US the Chinook. at once; Lynx to Wildcat, Sea King (HC4) modified aircraft have been delivered Army`s AH-64D Block 1) remains JHCs to Merlin (HC3/3A). The final Commando to 845 NAS with received its first Merlin primary ‘Attack’ platform. It was fielded Entering service with the RAF at Benson Helicopter Force Sea Kings were retired HC4 in (March) 2019. Further aircraft will in Afghanistan in 2006 for the first time PUMA 2 deliver the step-change in capability and in 2001, the Merlin first saw action in the from service in March in 2016. Despite be delivered to 846 NAS during quarter 3 although some would argue that whilst More than 40 years since its service performance required for operations in Balkans in 2003 before deploying to Iraq this on-going development, Merlin still 2019 enabling them to commence their hugely effective, it was used in a role it was introduction in 1972, the Puma remains a such demanding conditions. This upgrade in 2004 where they primarily supported had to produce outputs. This resulted in first Commando Merlin ab-initio training never designed for. The notion of placing a key support helicopter albeit its role has was considered good value for an aircraft coalition forces in the medical evacuation the Chinook spending more time at sea in October/November 2019. highly capable platform like Apache in the changed and developed following the Life that had developed a good reputation role until the UK departed in 2009. In 2007, than it otherwise would have during the overhead with the aim of overwhelming Extension Programme (LEP) to upgrade 24 amongst aircrew. The first upgraded aircraft six additional Merlin helicopters were conversion of the Merlin fleet. Additional 845 NAS quickly demonstrated the value relatively unsophisticated targets with Puma HC1 to Puma HC2 standard which was delivered to RAF Benson in 2013 received from Denmark (HC3A variant) as strain was placed on the Merlin Force of their new mount following delivery of Hellfire missiles and rockets was not the was completed in 2015. In its early years, with a return to full operational service an Urgent Operational Requirement. This following the announcement of the Merlin their first Commando Merlin during May best use of this sophisticated capability. the Puma HC1 built a strong reputation in 2015. Since then, Puma 2 and its crews move enabled the RAF to deploy the Merlin Life Sustainment Programme (MLSP) 2018. Within three months of delivery, during the Northern Ireland troubles, have successfully deployed to Afghanistan to Afghanistan as a support helicopter in in January 2014 to address airframe the Squadron successfully deployed JHC is now looking to exploit Apache operating in Belize, Yugoslavia and later, (Operation Toral) relieving the Chinook in 2009; a move which ultimately enabled obsolescence and extend its operational three Commando Merlin’s aboard HMS and its capabilities in the manner it was providing essential lift capability in Kuwait support of the NATO forces stationed there the Sea King to return home in 2011. Prior capability out to 2030 and potentially Queen Elizabeth during the carrier’s designed for. That is to put it into high during Operation Granby. However, from and conducting the ongoing training to the Merlin’s return from Afghanistan beyond. Under the MLSP, 25 HC3/3A maiden First of Class F-35B Lightning 11 threat, high risk environments which the outset of Operation Herrick, it was and advisory mission with the Afghan in 2013, the decision had been taken in Merlin helicopters are being upgraded flight trials on the United States eastern exploit the platforms capabilities, its future clear the aircraft lacked the required power Security Forces. 2012 to transfer the RAF’s 28 Merlin HC3/ to a new standard known as Commando seaboard (Westlant 18). Working alongside connectivity, survivability, coupled with in its current form to sustain operations in HC3As to the Royal Navy for eventual use Merlin HC4/4A. Marinised and re-roled Culdrose-based Merlin HM2s, 845 NAS the extensive training of those flying it. hot and high conditions. It was therefore Puma has always been considered a by Commando Helicopter Force. During to enhance their embarked capabilities, provided deployed search and rescue With the US Army switching to the AH- decided that a material upgrade was very agile and capable platform with its the next two years, RAF personnel played the modifications include new cockpit and joint personnel recovery for the 64E model, the UK MoD initiated the required to address obsolescence and to greatest strengths being the ease with a vital role transitioning Commando avionics plus limited ship optimisation; two United States F-35Bs deployed from Attack Helicopter Capability Sustainment most notably a folding main rotor head Naval Air Station Patuxent River, plus lift Programme with the aim of dealing with and folding tail. capability for the carrier force. obsolescence which if left untreated,

14 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 15 would degrade the existing fleet with its Of all the capability enhancements offered Financial budgets will never provide an potential loss by 2025. The decision to by the Apache, the feature exciting those unlimited supply of helicopters so having acquire 50 of the latest generation Apache closest to the aircraft is the aircrafts the ability to mix and match assets to attack helicopters for the British Army was digital connectivity (includes the Joint not only suit a mission but sustain it, announced in July 2016. Tactical Radio System and Link-16) which enhances JHC’s effectiveness now and into enhances tactical capability across the the future. KATHERINE Production of the UKs first Guardian joint battle space. This includes the helicopters is underway with the first due capacity for aircrew to control unmanned Undertaking the largest ever UK rotary to leave the US production line in early aerial systems and to work more closely re-equipment programme alongside 2020. Service entry is planned for 2022 with other important air assets including intense, high tempo training, is helping HOUSE HOSPICE ahead of the planned out of service date Wildcat BRH. re-shape operational mentality and the of 2023/24 for the existing AH-64D fleet. scope of permissive operations undertaken The new fleet of helicopters will be the The Apache is considered more an by JHC and its subordinate units. Allied WO G Barlow & TSW Wg WO. hroughout the day there was a same as those currently in service with the operational rather than a tactical asset with technological advance, these assets range of activities in order to US Army although some existing systems which is a massive enhancement over provide new opportunities previously raise awareness and money for from the current Apache fleet such as the legacy Apache which proved so unavailable, which is exciting for everyone the local and military charities the Modernised Target Acquisition and capable during operations in Iraq and concerned throughout JHC. Generating that TSW support. The total Designation System, and the Longbow Afghanistan. The positive results achieved capability is extremely challenging in amount raised was £1,120.44. Fire Control Radar, will be re-used and to date teaming Apache with Wildcat the current climate and every effort is TAs a result of the activities on the day a total incorporated into the new helicopters BRH (Attack Helicopter/Reconnaissance being made to ensure JHC is in the best On the 29 June 2019 of £200 was donated to RAF Benevolent where possible. The AH-64E is more Helicopter teaming), reflect the tremendous position possible to meet the threats it Fund which supports a wide range of capable than its predecessor and can also capability of both aircraft which will be faces head on. By 2025, the modernisation Tactical Supply Wing serving and veteran RAF personnel. The carry more weapons while being more enhanced further when the Apache is programmes presently underway will held their annual Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team fuel efficient allowing it to operate in delivered and Watchkeeper achieves full be completed and perhaps there will be Families Day event. received £250 and the remaining £670.44 more demanding conditions for longer. operational capability. Implementing a brief moment to pause and reflect. It was donated to Katherine House Hospice Its improved computing capacity and these developmental changes whilst will not last long though. Those who in Stafford, who are a highly skilled team updated sensors means the new fleet providing seamless operational capability threaten our way of life will continue to of dedicated volunteers and specialist care will also be receptive to upgrades in the represents a major challenge for everyone do so, employing new techniques where workers that provide end of life care to future, ensuring it remains at the cutting- within JHC. The future is exciting and appropriate. The only way for JHC to residents from within the local community. edge of technology. Interoperability of there is no doubt this extensive re- progress is to move forward positively, Overall, the day was a resounding success types with key partners remains a key equipment programme provides JHC with proactively, constantly resetting its and enjoyed by all who attended. consideration in the current environment. capability options it never had before. objectives and focus.

JHC CURRENTLY OPERATES THE FOLLOWING AIRCRAFT ITS FORCES AS FOLLOWS:

AIRCRAFT BASE Apache AH1 Middle Wallop, Wattisham Bell 212 AH3 Middle Wallop, Brunei Chinook HC3/4/5/6 Odiham, Benson Gazelle AH1 Aldergrove, Middle Wallop Canada (BATUS) Merlin HC3/3A/4 Yeovilton Puma HC2 Benson Wildcat AH1 BRH Yeovilton

16 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 17 TH ANNIVERSARY AWARDS EVENING

Article written by Nikki Hamilton. he dinner was preceded by at RAF Benson, particularly those for our a sunset ceremony outside Junior Rank personnel. He doesn’t do it the hangar. The RAF Falcons for praise or recognition, he simply does it opened the event before because he wants to make a difference for taking the salute from the our personnel and families. Station Commander, Group TCaptain Adam Wardrope. A formal sunset The Station Commander’s Resilience Benson 80th parade was then conducted by RAF Award was presented to Corporal Duncan Benson personnel, with a flypast from the Penman. The Station Commander was anniversary awards Puma and Chinook followed by a Meteor joined by his wife Kath to present the dinner; recognising from nearby Chalgrove airfield. During the award, which he personally judged. Duncan the outstanding work dinner, the team were also joined by the was diagnosed with a cancerous brain of our personnel while Queen’s Colour Squadron who wowed the tumour on his frontal lobe and underwent 200 people present with an illuminated lengthy surgery to remove 80 percent of commemorating 80 drill display in the darkened hangar. the tumour. years of the station. There were 11 awards during the evening, The day after he was released from which were presented by some of our hospital, his wife gave birth to their first distinguished guests. child. Duncan was determined to remain in the RAF and battled through intense The Spirit of Benson award was presented chemotherapy and radiotherapy while to Flight Lieutenant John Carter by Air getting to grips with being a father. Vice-Marshal David Cooper, the Air Officer His hard work has paid off and he is now Commanding No 2 Group. John’s quiet returning to work full time in his primary professionalism and selflessness epitomises role. His resilience is truly inspirational, The Airman’s Council award was presented rectified complex issues for the Puma the spirit of RAF Benson. He has worked and he quite rightly received a standing to Senior Aircraftman (Technician) Matthew Force while deployed in Afghanistan. behind the scenes on almost every event ovation as he collected his award. McCreadie by Warrant Officer First Class His commitment to the Puma Force Glenn Haughton, the first Senior Enlisted goes far beyond his small team though Advisor to the Chiefs of Staff. Matthew and he has been instrumental in improving is a professional wakeboarder who was morale and helicopter availability across chosen to represent Team GB in 2018. the force at a time when they are heavily Unfortunately, his arm was severely injured committed to operations and training, while taking part in a wake boarding both in the UK and overseas. competition and, with him unable to even hold a pen let alone conduct his primary The Professional Teamwork award was duty as an engineer, his place in the team presented to the Demand Procurement was lost. Matthew underwent intense Cell by Mr Trevor Winchcombe of Serco. therapy and operations and battled The newly formed Demand Procurement back to full fitness. Such was his spirit that Cell were recognised for their outstanding he not only returned to full engineering commitment to rapidly establishing duties, but he regained his place in an effective team and delivering Team GB for 2019. The Loyalty award exceptional service to the whole station was presented to Senior Aircraftman Zak including those deployed overseas. The Hoursoglou by Wing Commander (Ret’d) Resourcefulness and Innovation award Ian Morris of Airbus Helicopters. As well was presented to Senior Aircraftman as performing exceptionally in his day Louise Barlow by Mr Tom Hardy of job with the Joint Helicopter Support Boeing. Louise was commended for her Squadron, Zak also selflessly donates innovative approach to ensuring a robust much of his personal time to supporting and swift supply chain for the Puma social areas of the station including the Force engineers, whether in the UK or Sports Bar. The Professional Excellence deployed overseas. award was presented to Corporal Ashley Wade by Mr Arthur Bennett of CAE. A The Community Teamwork award was Puma avionics technician, Ashley is a presented to the Sports Bar team by natural leader and ensured his team Rear Admiral Jonathan Pentreath, the

18 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 19 FIXED WING MAS TRANSFERS TO THE RAF

51 Squadron Army Air Corps, Sqn roles, reflecting the joint environment who operate the Defender and many in JHC will be used to. Business at Islander aircraft in support of the front line has remained unchanged UK operations, were officially with REME engineering continuing to handed over to 1 Group and service the fleet. the ISTAR Force command on 61 April. A short ceremony and handshake Although the command relationship marked the end of almost 20 years in the has changed, the Squadron’s essential 2019 marked the JHC ORBAT. role of delivering aviation support to beginning of Fixed operations 24 hours a day, every day This command transition - aimed at of the year has not; the same people Commander of the Joint Helicopter Lt Col (Ret’d) Mark Bowra of the Bowra Wing Manned Airborne rationalising capabilities into command deliver this output or support the Command. The team were recognised Foundation. Toby was recognised for his Surveillance transition groups with similar assets - has caused Squadron at Flying Station Aldergrove. for their selflessness in supporting the outstanding contribution to both RAF to RAF command. little noticeable effect on the ground at This command transition will bring more community by ensuring that a much- Rugby Union and League. Flying Station Aldergrove. 651 Squadron changes in the months and years ahead loved facility at the heart of the have continued on operations and remain but for most of the personnel in 651 community, particularly for our Junior While being scouted for various TACOM to 5 Regiment AAC. Some RAF Squadron this is not a good-bye to the Ranks, remains open. professional clubs, Toby’s commitment personnel have commenced training in JHC – more of a see-you-later! to his home team at Benson has been The Unsung Sporting Hero award was unwavering and he helped lead the team presented to Corporal Rachel Kay by to victory in the RAF Cup. The Sports Team Capt (Ret’d) Luke Sinnott of Flying for of the Year award was presented to the Freedom, a hero in his own right. Rachel Benson Swimming Team by Mr George was commended for her unerring Butler from Thales. commitment to RAF Ladies Cricket despite no longer being able to play her beloved Despite not having a swimming pool sport following an injury. on station, the team have delivered consecutive wins in the Inter-Station The Sports Personality of the Year award Championships and achieved success was presented to Senior Aircraftman Toby in all swimming disciplines, including Evans by the inspirational diving and water polo.

20 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 21 tourists who welcomed them and cheered them on in organized parties that had a festival feel from the villages to the city centres through the route. Team member Staff Sergeant Louise Banton expressed THE NIJMEGEN MARCH the awe the team felt when she remarked, 47 REGT RA “I HAVE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING

By Corporal James Jones AGC (SPS). LIKE THIS” as the team ploughed on, carrying both the regimental and the British flag. The team performed well onto the second he very first Nijmegen March and your country and create social bonds day but by the third day, members felt the took place in 1909 inspired with soldiers & civilians from all over the pain as suspicions of injuries after post- by the dedication to physical world.” Corporal Jones’ team completed a march visits to the Medical Tent arose. The training by the Dutch 6th rigorous training regime after the 50-mile soldiers gave it their all, putting one foot Infantry Regiment in Breda, qualifier that saw 30 soldiers taking part before the other and keeping the pace where 306 soldiers and 10 with only 16 making the final cut. going for 9 hours straight each day, with civilians marched a total of 150 km, walking T just 40 minutes break allotted for lunch from garrison to garrison in limited routes SHOULD I TRAIN? The History of the and brief rests. By the time they racked due to the outbreak of cholera. Since 1909, To enter a team into the marches the team up 120km, the punishing challenge saw March. Soldiers from the event took place every year except leader on behalf of the Regiment submits morale and physical states on the fritz, as in 1940 due to WW2 and in 2006 due to an application to the Officer Commanding 47 Regt RA took up muscles and joints refused to cooperate. extreme heat which lead to thousands of of the British Marching Contingent who the gruelling task of But it is in this state that mental strength drop outs on the first day and 2 deaths. then offers your team a slot or places you forming a marching and team spirit persevered, for by the on the reserve list. Regardless whether end of the march 9 out of the 11 team team earlier this THE MODERN-DAY MARCHES your team is in reserve, each member then members completed the 165km march, Civilians and military participants come has to complete a qualifier event, this is year to represent earning them each their Nijmegen March from all over the world. Civilians are essentially half of the event of 25 miles a their cap badges cross medals that for them is an affirmation expected to march a minimum of 30 day over 2 days. This is completed at one and a reward. “We pushed further when in the prestigious km/day while military participants of the two official venues at RAF Cosford we pushed as far as we thought we Internationale are expected to complete 40 km/day. or Garelochhead, Scotland or can be could”, remarked Gunner Olivia O’Malley. There are 2 royal medals awarded: the completed locally if approval is granted Vierdaagse For Bombardier Mervin Punthen, it was, Cross for the Four Day Marches - awarded to your unit. We started the process with Afstandsmarsen “an amazing experience I’ll never forget,” individually to participants who finish over 42 volunteers and over the preceding a sentiment echoed by Gunner Luke Nijmegen, also within the regulations and the Group months, due to the qualifier, workload Thompson who concluded his experience Medal of the Four Day Marches to groups and injuries we were whittled down to known as the by saying, “I and many others will hopefully whose members all finish together within a team of 11 personnel going forward, a Nijmegen March do this every year for the rest of our lives.” which was held on the regulations. Regiments from the substantial rate of loss! British Army have sent representatives A DEMANDING BUT EXTREMELY the 3rd week of July. regularly in a show of physical strength THE MARCH ENJOYABLE EVENT and discipline. Routes for each of the 4 After the team arrived at Camp The largest multiple 47 Regt RA take part in their first Nijmegen days are named after the towns that they Heumensoord on the 13th of July, they day marching event March, with 11 mixed cap badge soldiers will take place in - Elst, Wijchen, Groesbeek took part in a variety of activities that undertaking the gruelling 100mile weighted in the world, it and Cuijk. 2019’s event has attracted over introduced to them the military legacy march in Nijmegen, The Netherlands. required participants 57,000 marchers. of Nijmegen and the significance of the to walk 160 km in 4 march. The organisers brought team days through routes WHY DO IT? members to a Battlefield tour of Arnhem Flying the flag for 47 Regt RA in the march to investigate the city’s WW2 history. around the Dutch this year are a mixed cap badge team of Social events that connected global city of Nijmegen. Royal Artillery, REME and SPS soldiers of all teams then followed. Monday, the 15th ranks. They were led by Cpl James Jones of July was a day of final preparations AGC(SPS) who organized the regiment’s and briefings where alongside thousands participation. Asked for his motivation, Cpl of military teams, we were issued their Jones replied, “It is a historic event that official instructions and wristbands. The gathers people from around the world, team rose at 2am before the dawn of 16th civilians and soldiers with over a century July as they set out to march their first of legacy. Taking part does not only test 40km with 5pm as their deadline. The team one’s physical endurance but one’s mind. were surprised by the spectators and the Marching side by side with your fellow overwhelming support and participation soldiers also elicits a sense of pride in your of the crowds. The 57,000 marchers were identity, as the event gives you the chance dwarfed and buoyed by the hundreds of to represent your cap badge, regiment thousands of spectators both locals and The team ready to depart on day 1. Passing through yet another party town.

22 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 23 Crossing the Waal Bridge.

The team photo at the entrance to Kamp Heumensoord.

The team and civilian participants passing through a town. A multinational selfie.

Final parade down the Via Gladiola. 47 Regt RA leaving Camp Heumensoord. Boots and the Nijmegen Medal at the end of the marches.

24 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 25 training on HLS and USL capabilities. as well as Exercises for Joint Helicopter JHSS personnel provide a Training Wing Command (JHC) and NATO. Humanitarian which runs and delivers the Defence relief work has included Op RUMAN in HISTORY OF JOINT HELICOPTER Landing Point Commander and Defence 2017 in the Caribbean for the aftermath Rigger Marshaller courses to personnel of Hurricanes Irma and Maria resulting in from across Defence. spreading the unit’s footprints over 10 different countries worldwide. SUPPORT SQUADRON As a unit JHSS currently has multiple ongoing concurrent commitments spread Overseas training support is also provided over a global footprint. In the UK, they in California, Canada, Belize, Brunei support ongoing exercises spread across and Kenya. The squadron remains highly Article written by WO Gareth Attrtidge. HSU was created after the With the closure of RAF Gutersloh in 1993 the country for a variety of military units deployable with 30 percent of its paper RAF received its first heavy lift (as a RAF base), JHSU (Germany) was and formations, including 3 (UK) Div strength of 117 personnel committed on any helicopters and it was realised initially moved to RAF Laarbruch, but was and 1 (UK) Div Force elements. Most given day, delivering Defence capability a dedicated team of personnel later subsumed within the JHSU (UK) when notably this has seen support to the re- and effect across the globe in support of to look after the underslung the Chinooks of 18 Squadron moved into invigoration of Divisional Warfighting with UK interests. This epitomises the squadron loads (USL) and helicopter landing to RAF Odiham. support to Aviation Task Forces 3 and 4. motto of: sitesJ (HLS) was required. Post conflict Support to Brigade level exercises such Joint Helicopter the squadron stood up formally at RAF In September 2009 JHSU had an official as WESSEX STORM and AGILE SPEAR are “TOGETHER WE DELIVER” Gutersloh and RAF Odiham and comprised reformation parade at RAF Odiham and routine. Additionally, the unit supports Support Squadron of Army and RAF ranks, coming mostly was re-named Joint Helicopter Support 3 Commando Brigade in arctic warfare (JHSS) started in from the Army Royal Logistic Corps Squadron (JHSS) where it remained until exercises such as CLOCKWORK in Norway, 1982 as the Joint driver/communications trades and the RAF 2016. The Mobile Air Operations Team where they provide vital support to movements trades. (MAOT) who were based at RAF Benson Commando Helicopter Force. JHSS are also Helicopter Support amalgamated with the squadron to very actively involved with military aid to Unit (JHSU) amidst As mentioned, the first deployment of provide a full support service to the civilian authorities (MACA), maintaining a the fires of the JHSU was with the Chinook force to Support Helicopter Force. At this time the rapid reaction standby to assist with natural Falklands Conflict. the South Atlantic where this brand- unit was committed alongside numerous disaster relief efforts. The most recent new units’ personnel were on board the other Army units to Op TELIC(Iraq) and example of this being Op BIOGRAPHY and Atlantic Conveyer when it was struck by later Op HERRICK (Afghanistan) where INITIATE, support to Wainfleet flooding an Argentine Exocet missile, fortunately MAOTs and Heli Handlers provided and the Whaley Bridge Dam respectively. with no resulting casualties. During its specialist training, capability and HLS involvement in the Falklands conflict, recce facilities. Abroad JHSS has ongoing commitments JHSU proved its worth and in the years to Operations including Op SHADER, Op that followed continued the much JHSS moved to its current home at RAF TORAL, Op NEWCOMBE and Op CARIBBEAN needed specialist support to the RAF, Benson in 2016 from where it supports Army and Royal Navy. all 3 services with specialist advice and

26 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 27 ROYAL AIR FORCE TACTICAL SUPPLY WING

Article written by Sqn Ldr James O’Neill. ROLE AND STRENGTH Since its formation the unit has developed The Royal Air Force Tactical Supply Wing an impressive and distinguished record (TSW), based at MOD Stafford in the county of supporting UK military exercises and of Staffordshire is part of the UK’s Joint operations all over the globe. TSW has Helicopter Command and is responsible been involved in every major UK overseas for providing aviation fuel support to operation since 1971, which includes deployed UK military helicopters and the following: tactical fixed wing aircraft, in deployed, forward locations, anywhere in the world. 1971 – 2008 Op BANNER – Northern Ireland Commanded by a Wing Commander, it is comprised of two Squadrons and has a 1973 Op KHANA CASCADE – Nepal total unit strength of 213 RAF personnel and 5 civilian support staff. The unit has teams 1973 Op LUCAN – Pakistan & held at Extremely High readiness (4 hours’ Bangladesh notice to move) and Very High readiness (5 Days notice to Move) and is capable of 1975-79 British Honduras TSW Mission deploying anywhere in the world. They are trained to a very high standard and have a 1979-80 Op AGUILA – Rhodesia CAPABILITIES TSW is renowned for pioneering the ‘Project and sustain high level of military skills in order for them to operate in tactical field conditions in 1982 Op CORPORATE – Falkland Islands TSW have an impressive array of concept of conducting Rotors Turning aviation refuelling each of the four environmental conditions, capabilities and equipment with which Refuels (RTR) on helicopters, known as capabilities Very Cold Weather (Arctic), Desert, Jungle 1990-91 Op GRANBY – Kuwait/Iraq to refuel helicopters and fixed wing ‘hot refuelling’. This quickens the refuelling worldwide in order and Temperate locations. (Gulf War I) aircraft, these include: The RAF’s largest process and reduces to a minimum the fleet of large rough terrain Oshkosh amount of time a helicopter needs to to meet UK Defence TSW has a number of standing tasks, which 1991 Op HAVEN – Turkey/Iraq Tactical Aircraft Refuelling (TAR) vehicles be on the ground, which, in tactical missions and tasks.’ require permanent detachments of TSW and Combat Support Tankers (CSTs), as situations is when the aircraft is at its personnel to be based overseas, including 1993-2006 Op OCULUS/RESOLUTE/ well as the smaller Tactical Fuel Bowsers most vulnerable to enemy action. A the Falkland Islands, Cyprus and Mali. The GRAPPLE/LODESTRA/PALATINE – (Tac B) and Air Portable Fuel Delivery FARP also gives the helicopters increased unit also regularly has personnel deployed (The Former Republic of Yugoslavia). Vehicles (AFDV). The latter two vehicles range and persistence over the battlefield to support UK, NATO and coalition exercises being able to be transported in tactical as they can refuel at the forward edge SUMMARY in countries such as Norway, Germany, 1995 Op CHANTRESS – Angola Air Transport aircraft, such as C130 of the battlefield, rather than having to TSW was perhaps best summed up by Hungary, Morocco, Oman and Jordan to Hercules and A400M ATLAS, or under-slung return to the rear echelons. TSW is the only the former Chief of Defence Staff, Sir Jock name but a few. 1997 Op DETERMINANT – Zaire by heavy lift Support Helicopters, such RAF unit able to carry out RTRs. Stirrup, when he was Chief of the Air Staff, as the CH47 Chinook, providing rapid in his annual report to her Majesty the TSW also forms part of the Joint Helicopter 1999 Op AGRICOLA – Kosovo deployment and refuelling facilities at TSW also has the capability to test Queen in 2005, when he said: Force component forces, supporting the forward locations. aviation fuel quality in the field, using Attack Helicopter Force and 16 Air 2000 Op BARWOOD – Mozambique Petroleum Test Kits. This allows for early ‘One of the many crucial but often unsung Assault Brigade, the Commando Helicopter TSW also operate the Joint Operational verification of in-specification fuel units of the Royal Air Force, whose work Force and Support Helicopter Force. TSW 2000 Op PALLISER – Sierra Leone Fuels System (JOFS); a modular system supplied by host nations in forward underpins all of our flying operations, is personnel regularly deploy on exercises for providing fuel at remote and austere locations and continued monitoring the Tactical Supply Wing, based at Royal in support of these forces and are held 2001/02 Op VERITAS – Afghanistan locations which lack existing fuels of fuel quality during a deployment. Air Force Stafford. The wing delivers at high readiness to deploy with these infrastructure. The system comes in TSW is the only UK military unit with fuel support to battlefield helicopters components on operations as required. 2003-09 Op TELIC – Iraq (Gulf War II) three configurations; JOFS Light Forces the equipment and suitably qualified deployed at the front line and, if required, TSW also provides refuelling support to is designed to be operated at Forward personnel able to conduct these tests in behind enemy lines. It performs a the Joint Special Forces Aviation Wing and 2005-14 Op HERRICK – Afghanistan Air Refuelling Points (FARPs) and is forward locations. dangerous but essential role, and its has teams held at extremely high readiness easily manoeuvred on the battlefield by people are often the first in and the to deploy in support of SF operations 2014/15 Op GRITROCK – Sierra Leone helicopters, or trucks, to tactical field TSW is also unique in having the capability last out of remote areas. Tactical Supply and regularly takes part in exercises with (Ebola crisis) locations providing simultaneous refuels to parachute its personnel and equipment Wing has served on all recent operations, special forces personnel. for up to two helicopters. JOFS Medium into very remote locations, behind enemy and through its work has significantly 2015 Op LAYLAND – India/Nepal Forces is a larger capacity facility designed lines, to set up FARPs for helicopters in increased the reach of our helicopters. Its HISTORY (Earthquake relief) to be operated at first and second line support of UK Special Forces. 200 plus volunteers come from diverse Formed in 1970 in response to the RAF locations with 45,000 litre pillow tanks, backgrounds and bring a great variety of policy of deploying aircraft to non- 2017 Op RUMAN – Caribbean (Tropical with multiple refuelling spots, whilst TSW therefore have a cadre of fully expertise to the unit. Their contribution permanent airbases, following the storm relief) JOFS Heavy Forces uses 75,000 litre pillow trained RAF logistics paratroopers able is normally unheralded; but they are withdrawal from British bases East of Suez, tanks providing, a second line fuel storage to carry out hot refuels inside enemy brave and skillful people without whom TSW became fully operational on 2018 Op NEWCOMBE – Mali (Support to facility from which forward locations can territory, undetected and then extract our helicopters – and hence our ground 1 January 1971. CT Ops) be re-supplied. themselves as required. forces – could not do their job.’

28 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 29 LOOKBACK: WHEN TWO BECOME ONE ENGINEERING SUCCESS OF MERLIN TRANSITION

Article was first published in 2016. owever even the most and it was expected that as time went technologically advanced, improvements would be made through most capable, state- that learning experience. of-the-art assets are worthless without the During the RN presence at RAF Benson, aircrew, engineers and some big changes were implemented Hsupport personnel that make it possible including a watch routine alien to RAF With the to operate them. Notwithstanding the Benson (24-about with a night watch) and planning, re-organisation and effort required a trial of the RN style tool control system introduction of the to generate the 37 crews that were needed where entire tool outfits are allocated to Wildcat, F35, Queen to operate the Merlin under a new owner, specific airframes, which was different Elizabeth Class another challenge was ensuring that the from the RAF system where individual correct amount of Suitably Qualified and tools are signed out to a person, not Carriers and the Experienced Personnel (SQEP) engineers an aircraft. handover of Merlin were available to recover and regenerate Mk3/3A from the the aircraft. Following this monumental change, 78 RAF, the winds of Squadron disbanded and 846 Naval Air In early 2012 just over 30 engineers, Squadron stood up on 30th September change have blown selected from the more experienced 2014, coinciding with the handover of strong in the last elements of the Commando Helicopter Duty Delivery Holder responsibilities and few years. Force (CHF) Sea King and Royal Navy control of the Merlin Force handed to the grey Merlin contingents, made their RN. Many of the personnel necessary for way to their new home at RAF Benson in this to happen were already incumbent Wallingford, Oxfordshire. This marked the on 846 NAS, with many more occupied on beginning of the balancing act of RAF her sister squadron, 28 (Army Cooperation) and RN personnel; maintaining suitable Squadron. RNAS Yeovilton saw the arrival levels of experience in all areas whilst of the first 846 NAS Merlin aircraft in March keeping the numbers moving towards a 2015 with an Operational Conversion RN majority in time for transition. Unit/Flight remaining at RAF Benson.

When multiple organisations come With the transfer of ownership of the together there is naturally an element green Merlin from light blue to dark, it of turbulence. For many reasons the RN was important to wait two marching moving in on ‘RAF turf’ was no exception. It paces to appreciate the colossal efforts was a huge credit to all those involved that and tireless hard work that took place, once differences in working practices had and has continued, at every level. We have been identified, and the language barrier grown both as individuals and as a Force. broken down, in the end, there was ‘one Personnel on both sides of the handover/ in, all in’ attitude as opposed to the ‘us and takeover have in time looked back with pride them’ atmosphere that might have been and certainly called upon the experience apparent initially. they gained during that transition in other potentially challenging times. It is surprising in our tri-service world of Military Aviation Authority, Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation and the Duty Holder construct just how different procedures and practices are at the coalface between units, Forces and Services. This was testament to the ‘can do’ mind-set of those involved to see the ’we’ve always done it this way’ attitude ditched in favour of a much more pragmatic approach to finding the most effective way of working rather than the most familiar. The majority of personnel agreed that both Services learned a great deal from each other,

30 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 31 SOME IMAGES CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF JHC PERSONNEL AND EQUIPMENT

32 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 33 606 Sqn personnel providing catering support to one of the many training exercise they support across the JHC.

34 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 35 The Fatal Accident on Salisbury Plain. From Flight/ This saw the MOD procuring several UAS global archive, 26 July 1913. as UORs to provide ISTAR support on BRITISH ARMY TACTICAL UNMANNED OPs TELIC and HERRICK. As with all UOR, full Training Needs Analysis (TNA) and resourcing across all lines of development AIRCRAFT SYSTEM (TUAS) AKA: is not fully funded or addressed, as they WATCHKEEPER OPERATED BY 47 REGIMENT ROYAL ARTILLERY (RA) are expected to be temporary in nature. However, the current systems being operated which are now core equipment are in service to provide support to the field Army worldwide, in training and on Article written by Maj Spencer Jones. operations, namely the Tactical Unmanned Air System (TUAS) Watchkeeper and Mini oth the Regiment and the such distinction and courage in Korea, Unmanned Air System (MUAS) Desert Watchkeeper Force HQ Malaysia and many other conflicts. It is Hawk III. conducted a formal parade right that this is recognised by you wearing to mark the change of beret. the Army Aviation beret; it is a public So here we are, approximately one A proud moment for the declaration of the skills you possess”. hundred years on, and the RA is once Regiment, the officers and again leading the way with the TUAS Bsoldiers replaced the more traditional The home of 47 Regt RA is in Larkhill, Bty Royal Field Artillery, who was killed and later in the 70’s, equipped with the Watchkeeper (WK) operated by 47 Regt dark blue beret of the Royal Artillery a Wiltshire town synonymous with whilst flying on 17 July 1913, flying from USD/501 Midge Drone System which saw RA, under Watchkeeper Force (WKF) and On 16 September with the light blue Army Aviation beret. the Royal Artillery. However, it has a Larkhill Aerodrome in a Bristol Coanda operational service on OP GRANBY in 1991 within Joint Helicopter Command (JHC). 2019 an event took This came as an acknowledgment of the close association with military aviation monoplane during the test for his aviation with 32 Heavy Regt RA. WK is designed to provide accurate, timely place that added to specialist nature of the Watchkeeper Force and is where the first military airfield in certificate. A verdict of accidental death and high quality intelligence; collected, as the sole operators of Watchkeeper Britain was established by the War Office was returned. Larkhill was in use by The Midge Drone System was replaced collated, exploited and disseminated the rich history of Tactical Unmanned Air System and in 1909 with the first Gunner arrival Army and RAF manned aviation on and by the BAE Systems Phoenix rail launched primarily to satisfy land manoeuvre 47 Regiment Royal reinforcing their status as a fully-fledged being Capt Fulton RA in 1910. It was the off until the 1960s, supporting troops aircraft as the third generation of UAS commanders’ critical information and Artillery (RA). aviation unit. principal site for pilot training until 1912, on Salisbury Plain, or in direct support in service with the RA. It was used intelligence requirements within the when it was overtaken by Upavon airfield of Gunnery observation tasks. Fifty operationally in the Balkans and on OP context of Joint Operations throughout With a Battery and REME attachments and the formation of the Royal Flying years on, the Royal Artillery was once TELIC in Iraq by 32 Regt RA. Procured for a range of environments and across the currently flying Watchkeeper in Cyprus, Corps (RFC). again leading the way in British Aviation the Cold War on the West German plains, spectrum of conflict. parades were scheduled to take place practices for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Phoenix was never suitable for use in Iraq both there and at their home location in Larkhill was the site of the first military (UAS) and Drones, with units in Larkhill in the heat of the summer or Afghanistan 47 Regt RA is comprised of four Larkhill, Wiltshire. Taking the salute for the air trials in 1912, and many prototype operating the MQM-57 Falconer (built for due to summer temperatures, the altitude Equipment Batteries: 10 Battery, 43 Larkhill parade was the Army Air Corps aircraft were flown from the aerodrome. battlefield reconnaissance in the 60’s), and terrain. Battery, 57 Battery and 74 Battery, with (AAC) Regimental Colonel, Colonel John Indeed, pioneering activity included Bryant, while 43 (Lloyds Company) Battery the first transmission of radio signals deployed in RAF Akrotiri, had the honour of between the hangars and aircraft and hosting the Master Gunner St James’s Park also played a significant role in the First Lt Gen Sir Andrew Gregory KBE CB. In his World War. There are several monuments speech during the ceremony, The Master to early flyers that lost their lives in Gunner said: “You are the successors to the surrounding landscape, including one the Air Observation Pilots who flew with to Maj Alexander William Hewetson of 66

Colonel J Bryant (AAC Regimental Colonel) takes the salute at Larkhill on the occasion of WKF adopting the Aviation Blue beret. Watchkeeper 036 takes off from Boscombe Down Aerodrome.

36 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 37 31 Battery as HQ Battery. In 2007, while serving as an air defence unit, 47 Regt FORMATION OF THE JHC AVIATION RA assumed responsibility for the Desert Hawk in Iraq as a way to relieve pressure on 32 Regt RA. Although this arrangement WARFARE BRANCH was initially intended to be temporary, 47 Regt RA retained responsibility for the Desert Hawk for the remainder of the UK Article written by Capt Richard Lonsdale. mission in Iraq. In 2010, 47 Regt RA was officially reformed as a dedicated UAV he command seeks to instil a engagement into the joint war fighting regiment. It began focusing on Watchkeeper more coherent and collegiate environment. In time, the JAWB will likely operations in 2015. approach to aviation training. develop into a Joint Weapons and Tactics This aspiration is to raise School, allowing JHC aviators to learn, WATCHKEEPER FACTS the standard of training develop, and record the essential tactics, • Operated by 47th Regiment Royal and assurance for our techniques and procedures to create, Artillery, based in Larkhill, Wiltshire, Twarfighters to an even higher bar across incorporate, and spread best practices operating from Boscombe Down. One of the changes the Forces. The central pillar of this activity for others to follow. At Initial Operating • Divisional level Intelligence, will be cooperation; working in a cohesive Capability, 1 Apr 2020, an interim JAWB Surveillance, Target Acquisition and occuring in the manner with a shared vision, collective HQ will be stood up at Middle Wallop with Reconnaissance (ISTAR) asset. foreseeable future understanding and a strong desire to the re-subordination JHC J7, Doctrine and • Will deliver 12 Task Lines of capability. within the JHC is the achieve the very best. Lessons and R&S Wing less for STANEVAL, along with a number of MOUs established • Watchkeeper can collect, process and in the aircrew posts designated UAS- instructor), Watchkeeper Theory and finally formation of the JHC disseminate high quality imagery Pilot and UAS-Captain. The aircraft is Synthetic and Live flying. The amalgamation of JHC’s J7 Branch, for Force Dependencies. By Full Operating intelligence to support Commanders’ manoeuvred around its airspace using a Aviation Warfare Air Manoeuvre Centre of Specialisation Capability, expected from 1 December Critical Information Requirements. windows based, Graphical User Interface EXERCISES AND OPERATIONS Branch (JAWB). (AMCoS) and R&S Wing will signal the 2020, there will be a modest uplift in • The key function of Watchkeeper is to mission plan, dynamically re-task or Currently, 47 Regt RA have 43 Bty formation of the JHC Aviation Warfare personnel numbers, tri-service equity be FIND, but it can also support drag and drop the aircraft onto task. deployed to Cyprus on Ex ATHENA REBUS Branch (JAWB). A significant step to agreements, including Reserves and the ATTACK assets. The aircrew cannot force the aircraft into (Sep 19 – Mar 20). This is a six month cohering the JHC’s tactical training and potential transfer of the Air Manoeuvre • Range – 150km. manoeuvres outside of its software deployment, based in RAF Akrotiri and assurance capability. This will create a ‘one Planning Team to the headquarters. • Maximum Altitude – 16000ft. envelope. Every Watchkeeper has built in an exciting opportunity to conduct stop shop’ for the delivery of joint aviation • Electro-Optic (EO) and Infra-Red (IR) pre-programmable logics to react to some Watchkeeper training missions, whilst warfighting across the JHC. The JAWB Across all the JAWB’s objectives, the full motion video day / night camera. emergencies i.e. in the event of losing currently qualifying Remote Pilot Aircraft will become the pivot around which all priority will be the delivery of Aviation • Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and communications the aircraft can be pre- System Aircrew Instructors (RPAS AI) and JHC’s tactical activity is conducted – from Warfighters prepared and ready to fight Ground Moving Target Indicator programmed to conduct a holding climb new WK Pilots. Watchkeeper now continues doctrine through training and education to at scale. The aspiration is to Deliver (GMTI). Laser Sub system with followed by a Return to Base on a pre- to fly from both Boscombe Down and RAF identified lessons – and will be the centre by starting small, thinking big, testing separate Target Marker, Designator determined route. Ground crew operations Akrotiri, creating great opportunities to of expertise for wider warfare centre assumptions and adapting quickly. and Range Finder. are conducted by RA soldiers and all train more personnel in these complex engineering is conducted by the Royal skill sets. It also paves the way for 47 RA to WATCHKEEPER AND FLIGHT SAFETY Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. be in a position to support both civil and Watchkeeper are registered military military operations around the world with THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT aircraft and are subject to regulation TRAINING AND PILOT SELECTION this world-class ISTAR asset. by the Military Airworthiness Authority. Potential WK Pilots are selected having Watchkeeper Force therefore conducts initially attended a Pilot Aptitude Test at RAF comparable aviation processes as manned Cranwell, and subsequently attend a Pilot aviators including: adherence to an Selection Board (PSB), which is convened Aircraft Document Set (ADS), competency, by WKF. Those who are successful are then currency, medicals, Human Factors (HF) allocated to a future WK Pilot Course, which trg, ground school, authorisation, mission can take approximately seven months to planning, risk registers etc. All Watchkeeper complete, covering four modules: Ground are “flown” by autopilot and “operated” by School, Aviation Flying Development RA soldiers and officers (including 8 hours flying with a civilian

38 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 39 CELEBRATING OUR RESERVE SQUADRONS

Article written by Maj Jamie Milnes. he Suffolk Community remains very end of day two when the Apache lifts extremely supportive of the off to mark the close of the Show. Armed Forces and the Military Community within its bounds. The Apache is always a big draw with the Forces week and provide a suitable The work carried out by the local community taking great interest from reference point for the local Community Regiment both in the public the moment it is announced on BBC Radio to thank the Armed Forces Community. eye and in the background supporting Suffolk as arriving on the set-up day to the Ipswich Town Council through the T leadership of Councillor Alister Ross and coordinating Armed Forces Covenant, moment it leaves at the close of the show. 6 Regiment Army Air Local Government and military focused The Military Zone is comprised of over 30 provided the platform for the event in the Corps – Community charitable initiatives remains a key individual stands demonstrating Military Town Hall. The ceremonial and military Engagement part of maintaining our links in to the Capability from the region including 23 Red Devils Parachute Display Team with Bee aspects of the day were coordinated by Kemball, Honorary Show Director. 6 Regt. The Ceremonial element saw a 6 Regiment have Communities that can and do make the (Para) Engineers, Royal Anglian Regiment, lives of all our people that little bit better. Royal Navy, the Met Office, 202 Logs Sqn, Combined Parade made up of contingents continued to forge Some of the key highlights of the year so RAF Regiment and RAF Police, USAFE EOD from 23 (Para) Engineer Regiment strong relationships far are below: Team from RAF Lakenheath and supporting and 1st Battalion the Royal Anglian elements from the major military charities. Regiment with a Colour Party from 15 within Suffolk as Squadron RAF Regiment representing RAF the lead element BURY ST EDMUNDS MAYOR’S FINAL In addition to the stands we have had CIVIC DINNER previously there was also a visit from the Honington and the Parade Sergeant Major for Community Following a reorganisation of the Red Devils Parachute Display team who position filled by the 6 Regt AAC RSM. Engagement for responsibilities for local Government it managed to ‘drop in’ on a breezy day with The parade was inspected by the Deputy Mayor of Ipswich Councillor Sarah Barber Suffolk on behalf of had been decided that the position of a low cloud base. Great to see them as the Mayor of St Edmundsbury would part of the Show this year and we look and the Vice Lord Lieutenant Robert Rouse 7th Infantry Brigade be dissolved at the end of March 2019. forward to welcoming them back over the who made an excellent speech thanking (The Desert Rats). This would draw to an end centuries of coming years. the Service of all members of the Armed tradition; with no secured future for the Forces Community. role going forward. Councillor Margaret It was also a great pleasure to host the Marks had the responsibility for holding Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, Claire Countess Following the Parade there was a military the post for the final year. A great of Euston for a tour of the Military Village themed after party which was attended supporter of the Military Community and and update her on current capabilities and by all personnel, families and local an incredible advocate for the Regiment activities within the region. dignitaries. There was an excellent spread too. We were honoured to be invited to put on for all and the Armed Forces Sweethearts provided fantastic musical the final Civic Dinner in the Athenaeum in SUFFOLK ARMED FORCES DAY Lt Col Lowe in Lynx. Bury St Edmunds to mark the end of the This year’s Armed Forces Day for accompaniment and then, of course, the era of the Mayor of St Edmundsbury. The Suffolk was marked on Thursday 27th mandatory photo call for all the uniformed Commanding Officer, Lt Col Marcus Brown June outside the Town Hall in Ipswich. contingent including representatives from and Mrs Brown attended the event with The aim of the event was to mark Armed 6 Regiment taking the stage! Major James Milnes SO2 CE and the RSM WO1 Melita Jarvis. CO’S USAFE HONORARY COMMANDER REFUELLING TRIP THE SUFFOLK SHOW The Commanding Officer holds an The Suffolk Show remains the Tier 1 Honorary Commanders position of an SF Community Engagement Event for the Osprey Squadron at RAF Mildenhall. As Suffolk Military Community. As the CE part of his ‘duties’ Lt Col Brown was invited lead for Suffolk 6 Regt provide the lead to join the Refuelling Wing on mission and coordination for the Military Village to provide tanker support to F-15’s. The and other military activities at the Show. views were amazing and we hope that our The Military Village forms one of the four association with the USAFE remains strong corner-pieces to the Show Ground and long in to the future. provides an excellent platform for the Military Community to engage with the CO LYNX STEM DAY Suffolk Community, Veterans and many The new Commanding Officer, Lt Col Lowe, of the distinguished guests that visit the had an opportunity to jump back into Show each year. Of the 90,000 visitors, the flying gear to talk the children of Hillside Military Village gets to see most of them! Community Primary School about the Lynx Helicopter that the school had purchased The stand is busy from the moment the Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, Claire Countess of gates open at 0800hrs on day one to the Euston with the Apache. 6 Regt Personnel on Stage with Forces Sweethearts. and turned in to a STEM classroom.

40 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 41 Forward Refuelling Point (FRP), plus Royal Navy Reserves (RNR) brought in to man the Ten Tors headquarters and operations EXERCISE WYVERN TOR 2019 centre. With so much of Dartmoor and the many routes accessible only by helicopter, 846 NAS and the HLS were extremely busy. Global Aviation Resource spoke with All images from Ian Harding & Kevin Wills. Lieutenant Commander Andy White, a senior pilot with 846 NAS and the Ten Tors lessed with fine weather, from the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force 2019 Detachment Commander outlined the 2019 Ten Tors and as well as many other public civilian the challenges provided by this event: Jubilee Challenge events emergency services and volunteers. held over the northern half These all work closely with the Dartmoor “This event provides us with a great of the Dartmoor National National Park Authority and many opportunity to complete some challenging Park in Devon over the landowners to ensure the event runs and highly rewarding tasking, and to Bweekend of May 11-12, was attempted smoothly and that those participating give something back to the local area as by approximately 2,400 teenagers aged remain safe and are able to appreciate Dartmoor is pretty much in our backyard. Ian Harding and between 14 and 19 years old plus a the best the national park has to offer. For a squadron that is focussed on training Kevin Wills spent further 300 teenagers and young adults The two-day Ten Tors Challenge event future front line aircrew and meeting three days embedded with disabilities. There may be more comprises three routes which extend over our other UK commitments, providing challenging out-ward bound events held 35, 45 and 55 miles depending on age. this type of support to the community is with 846 Naval Air across the United Kingdom but watching Walking unaided and carrying their own very rewarding. Talking with teenagers Squadron during such a large group of teenagers set out water, food, bedding etcetera over some EXERCISE WYVERN TOR Naval Air Station Yeovilton in Somerset before they went out on Friday and Exercise Wyvern Tor alongside their team mates watched of the United Kingdom’s toughest terrain, Organised by the British Army with who provided two Leonardo Helicopters watching them all crossing the finishing as they supported by adoring parents and spectators, was each of the 400 teams is assigned to one support from the Royal Navy and Royal Merlin HC3s for the duration of the event. line on Sunday was fantastic. Quite a truly inspiring. First held in 1960 and of 26 routes during which they must visit Air Force, this is the exercise which In addition to the two helicopters, CHF few of the guys at Yeovilton completed the unique Ten Tors each subsequent year over the weekend a minimum of ten manned safety control facilitates the Ten Tors event. With safety and 846 NAS provided a large complement Ten Tors when they were teenagers with Challenge event held following the May public holiday, this and check points in the order provided. the priority, these services work closely to ensure they could provide the 24- one of our pilots completing all three on the Dartmoor unique event is firmly established in the with a number of civilian organisations hour CASEVAC capability required for the distances. He said how much he enjoyed which include the Devon and Exeter exercise. This complement comprised National Park in south west mindset and especially that They must complete their challenge as returning and flying during this year’s of the many hundreds of military a team without any adult support. The Police, Dartmoor Search and Rescue and three full aircrew plus the Detachment Ten Tors. He was also able to explain south west England. personnel and other volunteer groups Jubilee Challenge takes place much closer the British Red Cross. Casualty evacuation Commander, approximately 25 engineers exactly what all the teenagers were going without whose support this event would to Okehampton Camp and is designed for (CASEVAC) is a key feature of this event and and ground technicians, eight members through. From a training perspective, be impossible. people aged between 14 and 21 with a range as always, it was provided by Royal Navy’s of CHFs Mobile Air Operations Team the Ten Tors Challenge provides CHF and of challenging physical or educational Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) and 846 (MAOT) who manned the Helicopter 846 NAS with an outstanding training TEN TORS AND JUBILEE CHALLENGE needs. The routes chosen for this challenge Naval Air Squadron (NAS) based at Royal Landing Strip (HLS) and the co-located opportunity as Lt Col White explained: Starting and finishing at Okehampton are based on individual abilities with Camp located on Dartmoor, the Ten individuals or teams supported by cadet Tors event is organised by the Army’s officers from the Exeter University Officer Headquarters South West with support Training Corps.

42 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 43 “A lot of the lessons learned during this It was all systems go from then as Lt Col In addition to the two Merlin helicopters tasking are similar to those we use White confirmed: on station, Devon and Cornwall Police for humanitarian and disaster relief “FROM THAT MOMENT WE WERE operated a drone at the event for the type operations. Having participated in ON 30 MINUTES CASEVAC NOTICE. first time. This assisted with ‘find’ side of Operation Ruman in 2017 (humanitarian WE COMPLETED A NUMBER OF the events tasking; namely personnel relief provided by the three British military THOSE MISSIONS THROUGHOUT recovery and search and rescue. Personnel services to the British overseas territories THE DAY TRANSPORTING PEOPLE we spoke with confirmed this additional in the Caribbean following Hurricane TO DERRIFORD HOSPITAL capability had proven very useful with Irma), one of our crewmen commented (LOCATED IN PLYMOUTH, DEVON) deconfliction procedures implemented that this tasking was very similar to that OR BACK TO THE HLS FOR AN to ensure 846s Merlin helicopters and this in the sense that our Ten Tors tasking is AMBULANCE TRANSFER BACK unmanned component could operate in reactive, we are providing support to AT OKEHAMPTON CAMP. OUR close proximity safely. people who need it plus we are moving ALERT STATUS WAS MAINTAINED a mix of civilians, military and civil THROUGHOUT THE NIGHT WITH There are few events taking place in the service personnel with different needs. CREWS ON STATION, READY AND United Kingdom which match the scale, That mix of live tasking coupled with BRIEFED TO GO ALL NIGHT AND stature and spectacle of the Ten Tors event. the integration of operations supporting THEN AGAIN ON SUNDAY UNTIL Watching so many teenagers navigate military personnel and competitors in the EVERYONE WAS ACCOUNTED unaided around some of the most testing field, is the type of training we cannot FOR AS EITHER FINISHED OR terrain in the United Kingdom is truly generate ourselves. The event provides us TAKEN OFF THE MOOR. DURING inspiring as are the efforts made by the with excellent training.” SATURDAY AND SUNDAY British Army, Royal Navy and so many WHEN OUR AIRCRAFT WERE other organisations to ensure this unique 24-HOUR WATCH NOT REQUIRED FOR CASEVAC, event can be staged. From an aviation 846 NAS were flying practically non-stop AIRCREW MADE GOOD USE OF perspective, 846 NAS confirmed their from the moment they arrived on Friday OUR AIRCRAFT TRANSPORTING aircraft performed well and they were May 9 to help set up the event. With PEOPLE AROUND THE MOOR able to complete all the tasking required much of Dartmoor inaccessible, the Merlin OR OFFERING THEM UP FOR of them. The 2019 event was an excellent HC3s provided the only transport option ADDITIONAL TASKING REQUIRED event although it was overshadowed by available to move the vital check point BY THE OPERATIONS HQ. WITH the sad loss of one of Dartmoor’s Search teams and their equipment into position. THIS TASKING COMPLETE, and Rescue team’s longest serving female Friday complete, the squadron was on WE THEN HAD TO REPEAT members who collapsed on duty during station very early on Saturday morning, FRIDAY’S TASKING RECOVERING the Sunday. Despite being airlifted quickly moving the 105-millimetre starter gun PERSONNEL AND EQUIPMENT to Derriford Hospital, she passed away into position and then completing a two- FROM THE MANY CHECK POINTS. soon after arriving. Our thoughts and best ship Merlin flypast for the competitors WE WERE BUSY WITH LONG DAYS, wishes are naturally with her family and as the gun went off for the start at BUT THE FLYING AND TASKING friends. Next year’s Ten Tors will take place 07:00 hours. WAS GOOD.” May 8-10, 2020.

44 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 45 (FARPs) providing Avn with greater reach. platform and proved the Squadrons successful Hellfire shoots, demonstrating This was used as another opportunity to capacity to operate outside the UK in a both LOAL (lock-on after launch) and LOBAL integrate RH and AH operations seeing challenging complex environment. (lock-on before launch) capability - the first 661 SQUADRON joint FARPs containing both 1 and 3 time this has been conducted outside of OP CABRIT Regiment personnel. 659 SQUADRON OP TRACTABLE the UK. 659 Squadron deployed to Estonia in Outside of normal operations, 661 October 2019 as part of Op TRACTABLE Once established at Amari, 3AAC Squadron took the critical opportunity in support of Op CABRIT 19, building Battlegroup began conducting a SCREEN to exploit various media opportunities. on successful deployments by its sister in support of the Queen’s Royal Hussars By Capt Ashley Padroe, 2LT Handcock, he aim was to integrate into The culmination of the deployment The most crucial of these were a flypast Squadron over the previous 18 months. Battlegroup’s Relief-in-Place (RiP) with the 2LT Gawin. the NATO enhanced Forward was Ex SPRING STORM, a complex and for Veterans day, which culminated with The deployment saw an integrated outgoing King’s Royal Hussars Battlegroup. Presence (eFP) alongside demanding exercise involving 10,500 interviews of 661 Squadron personnel battlegroup of Wildcat (RH) and Apache As with previous deployments, the Wildcat 3 AAC, in order to support NATO personnel spread across a vast including the OC on Estonian national (AH) to provide a SCREEN during the RiP had the opportunity to demonstrate NATO forces in Estonia, deter swath of North East Estonia under C2 of 1 news, the demonstration of FARP between two armoured battlegroups its liaison capability, taking CO QRH on regional threats and provide EST Brigade and NATO HQ. capabilities and several high-profile as well as conducting other taskings in an aerial reconnaissance task along the Ta reassuring presence in the region. VIP flights including the Estonian Prime support of NATO partners. Estonian-Russian border area, providing This built on the achievements of 661 The Wildcat Recce Helicopter (RH) was Minister, the UK’s Minister for Armed clear fields of view onto potential areas of In March 2019 661 Squadron’s first deployment to Estonia primarily utilised for reconnaissance in the Forces, the British Ambassador to Estonia The deployment followed the template advance and fields of manoeuvre. The RH Squadron 1 AAC in 2018. deep, locating key targets, identifying the and Estonia’s Chief of Defence. set by previous deployments, with the was utilised for several other taskings in enemy axis of advance and feeding back deployed to Estonia aircraft self-deploying across Europe while support of CO eFP, as well as Estonian and 661 Squadron aircraft self-deployed potential forming up points, routes and In and around this busy schedule the the road party moved simultaneously British defence media. as part of Op from RNAS Yeovilton, transiting through key terrain. The data compiled from the RH Squadron managed to enjoy a wide by land and sea before meeting up at CABRIT 19. Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, sensors was exploited by the Intelligence range of activities in Estonia. Of note Amari Air Base. An advance party of 30 The next phase deployed groundcrew, Poland, Lithuania and Latvia, before Corps Image Analysts attached to the were cultural visits to Estonia’s capital personnel, having arrived 2 weeks early, signalers and engineers 150 kilometers touching down in Amari airbase in detachment which further developed the city, Tallinn, and various coastal activities had the opportunity to enjoy a cultural east of Amari to set up a FARP at Tapa in Estonia. Concurrently, a road party of fledgling PED and ISTAR fusion the RH such as wake boarding and scuba package, including a visit to the town of support of air-to-ground ranges for RH .50 10+0 personnel – including groundcrew, provides. During this period, the RH also diving. Members of the 661 Signals Narva on the Russian border. calibre M3M and AH 30mm cannon. The signallers, engineers and other support operated closely with Apache (AH) from detachment even managed to go scuba FARP allowed RH and AH groundcrews elements – transited through Europe 663 Squadron, handing-off targets to diving in a flooded prison complex in a Before launching for the final leg of the to integrate once again, developing by road and sea, meeting up with the the AH to strike, maximising efficiency disused quarry. route out, 3AAC battlegroup conducted a their skills and demonstrating their aircraft at Amari. The road move took six and proving the concept of Attack stop short in Lielvarde, Latvia, where the interoperability between aircraft types. days and required detailed coordination Reconnaissance Teaming (ART) between The recovery to the UK retraced the RH supported AH in a live Hellfire shoot on During the range package, Commander with military and diplomatic agencies in RH and AH - a fundamental concept of same path as the route out and provided air-to-surface ranges off the Lithuanian Field Army - visiting the Op CABRIT JOA several NATO partner nations to ensure a Army Avn in the future. The RH also enabled another challenging test for the junior coast. Launching from Klaipeda, Lithuania - had the opportunity to fire 400 rounds smooth transit. the covert movement of Commanders commanders, aircrew and drivers. and utilising targets set up by the from the Wildcat’s M3M under the direction across the AO increasing the flexibility of Overall, Op CABRIT 19 demonstrated the Lithuanian Navy, the Wildcats provided of the AAC Master Aircrewman. The RH Once established at Amari, tasking began the eFP. effectiveness of the RH as a reconnaissance Laser Target Designation (LTD) for three also conducted an Attack Reconnaissance immediately supporting Belgian Forward Observers in delivering fire missions and During Ex SPRING STORM ground strikes onto targets making use of the personnel provided essential support Wildcat’s sensors, a theme that would for the UK and US aircraft with tactical continue throughout the deployment. Forward Arming and Refuelling Points

46 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 47 Teaming (ART) mission alongside AH from 662 Squadron and Czech Air Force Gripen fast jet aircraft, based in Estonia as part of NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission. The mission demonstrated the potency of Army Aviation’s attack capability as well as the integration between all assets.

The deployment concluded with the recovery of the aircraft and vehicles to the UK by 15 November 2019. Building on the successful deployments by its sister Squadron, the deployment under Ex TRACTABLE saw the RH once again demonstrate its versatility as a reconnaissance platform, both when operating independently and integrating with AH assets and providing integral support to NATO partners.

Both frontline 1AAC RH Squadrons completed successful deployments to Estonia in 2019, reinforcing the ability of the Regiment as a whole to rapidly deploy overseas on behalf of UK interests at 5 days NTM.

48 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 49 far behind the conversation, that I missed into the sky. I looked at the captain to work 6. If you have junior people in the it. However, I was reassured by my captain out what that was all for, but he looked crew (and this is increasingly the that, as we were following the Puma, we rather deathly pale – so I dropped it. We case) build time into the planning, I LEARNT ABOUT would have the capacity to flight follow. regained the Puma in a descent into the briefing and the sortie to ensure FLYING I should have spent more time looking at barracks and we followed them down to that they are able to fully function the maps, but I felt reassured by his calm the landing point. as a member of your team. demeanour. As you will see, this was to have serious consequence What had occurred was that the Heli-lanes 7. Lastly, share the experience so FROM THAT ARTICLE map had been folded over very close to As we launched and flew across the Irish the landing point, and the highlighter has that others may learn from Sea, I was back in my familiar territory of been drawn to the edge of the map. I had your mistakes. water-skiing a couple of miles behind the followed this ‘yellow brick road’ a little too Experience is a wonderful teacher and Group Captain Pete Warmerdam, Assistant Head, Safety & Assurance, JHC. aircraft and desperately trying to haul far and had missed the small ‘x’ marking myself back into the cockpit. I was not the landing point. The Puma co-pilot had over 20 years of flying in JHC I have helped when the captain asked me to made the same error as me but, as the learnt many things. But what do you do change the aircraft’s Squawk in response author, he had recognised his mistake if you are lacking experience? Well to ad events taken a subtly to some ATC direction. A simple task but, much quicker. At risk of flying past Chelsea my mind it comes down to two things: different twist, there incredible as it may seem, at no point Barracks and voiding our clearance, he firstly, do you fully understand the plan? would have been 2 JHC through our Wessex Conversion Training called for his pilot to make a hard left. As If you do not, then you must speak up. helicopters crashing onto had we discussed IFF. As I recall, it was you recall, we were in echelon port and all Secondly, are you able to safely achieve Chelsea Bridge in the not used in Northern Ireland and so was my captain and crewman saw was a face that plan? If you are not sure that you can, middle of the day. It still seen as surplus to requirements. So after full of Puma getting very rapidly closer. then again, you should speak up – better to gives me shivers when I think about it. I H failing to locate the IFF and just looking He firstly bunted the aircraft down to get stop and live to fly another day. However, am sure that there would have been a lot at my captain blankly, he returned my under the Puma’s disc and then pulled sometimes, despite the best planning and I will start by saying of people left wondering how did that plea with a diatribe of contempt along back on the stick to avoid the Puma’s rotor preparation, things go wrong: a near wire that of the many happen and more importantly why? My the line of ‘standards slipping’ etc. This disc chopping our tail off. Both crewmen strike in Northern Ireland; the rupture of a hope in writing this article is so that you near misses that made a steep cockpit gradient rather swore that the rotors actually crossed – hydraulic pipe, which came very close to can see where we went wrong for the I have had over a more cliff-like. Anyway, doing my best, probably not, but it was very very close. disabling my Chinook’s flying controls; and lessons remain as valid today as they were we progressed towards London. In fact, I coming within 20ft of hitting the ground long flying career, then. Hopefully by reading this, you will had broadly clawed my way back into the On the ground, we had a fairly frank at night when trying to develop the Low this one was by avoid the pitfalls that we fell right into. aircraft someway across the Irish Sea and debrief, with some members using choice Ambient Light Ops capability in the run up far the closet that I was actually beginning to enjoy the trip words to discuss my performance. Some to Gulf War II are three that reduced my life I was a very junior Wessex pilot in I have come to and relax. Dare I say it my confidence was others refused to even talk about it, still expectancy! So as we celebrate 20 years Northern Ireland (yes I am that old!). building – more ringing. suffering from the shock of our potential of JHC, I wish you all the very best of luck; meeting my maker. I had only just completed the Conversion demise. There are 7 things that we could but better than that, learn from others’ Flight and much of what we would now Entering London’s airspace is a busy and should have done better: mistakes and experiences so that you consider core Conversion Flight Trg was undertaking. There are multiple radio don’t have to rely on it. actually carried out on the Front Line changes and you have to fly exactly on as opportunities arose – this was one 1. There are no ‘freebie’ sorties He was an experienced and very the Heli-route or you are challenged by of them. – treat every one of them in a competent operator, as was the crew the radar controller. Get this wrong and professional manner – your life of the Puma who would be leading the chances are that you will be denied a I was fortunate enough to be selected may depend on it. the formation all the way to London. further routing and asked to leave London. to occupy the co-pilot’s seat for a formation As the ‘new boy’, I was still ‘water- When we were looking to land at Chelsea trip to the mainland. It was broadly tied with 2. Even in this era of electronic skiing’ someway behind my platform Barracks, that would have been less than my captain’s final flight on the Squadron maps, time spent route studying is every time I got airborne and I was ideal! Our lead was doing a super job and before being posted to another aircraft working hard to learn my trade. I was we followed the route to join the Thames seldom wasted. type – minor alarm bells should be ringing. also not yet completely up to speed with and fly westwards. With us sitting in how some of the systems on my aircraft echelon left at 2 rotor spans all seemed to 3. If you are not clear about worked. Fundamentally, I was nervous be going nicely. I was following the route anything in the brief, or you think about making myself look stupid in front on the 50’thou map and calling the bridges something has been omitted, of some very experienced Squadron as we passed them. For ease, the route then you must speak up – silence members and did not want to let had been helpfully marked with a yellow is a tacit acceptance that you the side down. Not wanting to be a highlighter. Our route had continued along understand and agree with complete sandbag, I asked if I could this ‘yellow brick road’ until the edge of the plan. help to plan the sortie. For reasons that I the map. cannot remember now, this was not to 4. Know how to use all the systems be; it was completed by the Puma crew. I As we reached this fold, I turned the map on your aircraft. was told by my captain that all we had to over and was ‘heads in’. Confusingly, there do was follow the other aircraft so not to was no yellow highlighted route on the 5. As the deputy in a formation, it worry – alarm bell getting louder... other side of the map. Just as I turned the map back over to try and establish is your responsibility to avoid the The first time that I saw the route was where we were going, a loud expletive leader – here, we should have been during the brief. Not ideal, but not came from my captain, and the next thing on the right-hand side. Likewise, disastrous. However, I do not recall a I knew was that we were pointing nose don’t be the ‘dumb leader’; be detailed talk though of our route through down ‘banzai style’ directly at Chelsea aware of where your subordinate the London Heli-lanes – particularly where Bridge. This was rapidly followed by the is and try not to ‘break’ into them we would be landing. Or if we did, I was so aircraft’s nose being dragged back up unless you have to.

50 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 51 ANOTHER IMPORTANT MILESTONE FOR THE UK MILITARY FLYING TRAINING SYSTEM (UKMFTS)

he parade celebrated both the graduation of the first 13 pilots to complete their training within the Rotary Wing UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS) Tas well as the graduation of 9 helicopter Rearcrew. This event was truly a tri-Service On 23 August 2019, celebration and marked yet another a total of 22 tri- important milestone within the UKMFTS, Service aircrew the declaration of Interim Course graduated from the Capability (ICC). Since 1 April 2018, the Rotary Wing element of the UKMFTS Defence Helicopter enterprise at RAF Shawbury has been Flying School (DHFS) delivered via a contract with Ascent, who at RAF Shawbury. sub-contract to Airbus Helicopters.

A modern fleet of 29 Juno (H135) and 3 Jupiter (H145) helicopters fitted with glass cockpit technology and an advanced touchscreen avionics suite support this world-class military flying training solution. Ascent has also delivered state- of-the-art infrastructure, including an have benefited greatly from this world- Operational Support Building housing leading technology.” advanced Flying Training Devices (FTD), where the trainees learn many of their Flt Lt Jamie Johnson added: “The course skills before getting airborne. has been challenging and rewarding throughout. The availability of the state- Air Marshal Andrew Turner, Deputy of-the-art infrastructure such as the Commander Royal Air Force said: “I am Flying Training Devices, in addition to delighted to declare ICC for MFTS here the Juno and Jupiter has made the whole at Shawbury today. The training system process slicker and will undoubtedly is state of the art, world-leading and better prepare aircrew for the front line.” absolutely fit to prepare Royal Navy, Army The Managing Director of Ascent Flight and Royal Air Force helicopter aircrew Training, Mr Tim James said: “Ascent Flight for the challenges that they will face at Training is proud to play our part in the UK the front line, at home and around the Military’s flying training system here at RAF world. This milestone represents years Shawbury, where we train and prepare the of committed and dedicated work by next generation of helicopter aircrew for Defence and Ascent Flight Training, that active front line service with the Royal Air everybody should be rightly very proud Force, Royal Navy and UK Army. of. There is much more to be done, but this is another big day for MFTS.” Ascent would like to recognise the partnership at RAF Shawbury between Capt Craig Carter (AAC), one of the the MOD and Ascent Flight Training with trainee pilots who graduated and will now the full support of our industry partners transition on to the Apache helicopter Lockheed Martin, Babcock International, said: “From a trainee’s perspective, Airbus UK and CAE. Congratulations flying the Juno is a huge step forward; and good luck to those trainees who are these modern helicopters with glass graduating today, and we wish them cockpit technology are much closer to the very best in their future front line what we will fly on the front line and we military careers.”

52 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 53 47 REGIMENT (RA) CHANGE OF BERET PARADE

Article written by Maj Huw Jones. ersonnel from 47 Regt Colonel, Colonel John Bryant OBE ADC. started wearing the aviation Watchkeeper now continues to fly from blue beret which formally both Boscombe Down and RAF Akrotiri, welcomed the Watchkeeper taking advantage of opportunities to train Force into the Army Aviation more personnel. It also paves the way for family, alongside 7 Battalion 47 RA to be in a position to support both PREME and the Army Air Corps. The change Civil and Military Operations around the The 16 Sep 19, was a to the aviation blue beret is to recognise world with this world-class ISTAR asset. the technical nature of the Regiment’s historic moment for role as well as well as to strengthen the 47 Regiment Royal identity and cohesion across the Army Artillery (RA) based aviation family. in Larkhill and its With a Battery and REME attachments Force Headquarters currently detached to Cyprus, Simultaneous in Andover, Joint parades in Cyprus and the UK took place. Helicopter Command. The ceremony in Cyprus was presided over by The Master Gunner, St James’s Park Lt General Sir Andrew Gregory KBE CB, and the deployed Battery had the honour of hosting him. In his speech during the ceremony, The Master Gunner stated, “You are the successors to the Air OPs that flew with such distinction and courage in Korea, Malaysia and many other conflicts. It is right that this is recognised by you wearing the Army Aviation beret; it is a public declaration of the skills you possess”.

The UK ceremony took place at Larkhill, at the Packway Officers Mess and was presided over by the Army Air Corps Regimental

54 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 55 56 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 57 LOCAL RUGBY TEAM ENJOYS TEAM BUILDING DAY AT RAF ODIHAM

Article written by Flt Lt Chris Warr. orking with the and games plans were clearly top of their Station Training agenda however this was put aside as their Development bonding, team building and the crucial Flight, a bespoke attributes of leadership and followership package of team were put to the test. building challenges Wwas designed including use of the The low ropes course offers an abundance Station low ropes course, this was the of scenarios which test both individuals ON 13 Aug RAF perfect environment to demonstrate and teams with obscure situations, Odiham hosted the one of the many ways the RAF train their pressurised scenarios and essentially aim local rugby team, personnel and the benefit it can have to to stretch those who take part. Despite Hook & Odiham team cohesion. the absence of tackle shields, cones, mouth guards and rugby balls, a lot of RFC, as an outreach Keen to exploit all opportunities, “The similarities can be witnessed in a game project, aiming Stags” leapt at the chance to include of rugby. Making the right decision is to work with the this unique experience as part of their vital on the pitch and having a calm community develop preparation for the upcoming season. Well head and voice is integral to delivering into their preseason training, fitness, skills those decisions. teamwork and generate an interest

in the RAF. “LEADERS CAN BE NATURALLY FOUND IN TRAINING EXERCISES SUCH AS LOW ROPES AND EQUALLY AS IMPORTANT SO CAN FOLLOWERS. SELLING AN IDEA TO A TEAM AS OPPOSED TO TELLING A TEAM WILL ALWAYS WORK MORE EFFECTIVELY IN MY OPINION, AGAIN THIS WAS REALISED WHILST CARRYING OUT LOW ROPES EXERCISES.”

Said Rob Cruikshanks, Hook & Odiham RFC Head Coach.

Rob went to on to say,

“THE TIME SPENT ON THE LOW ROPES FACILITY WAS ONE THAT ALL THE PLAYERS AND COACHES VALUED GREATLY AND DEFINITELY SOMETHING WHICH WOULD BE RECOMMENDED TO OTHERS TO TEST THEMSELVES. MORE IMPORTANTLY HOWEVER, IT WILL NOW OFFER THE STAGS THE CONFIDENCE TO QUESTION THEIR ACTIONS ON THE FIELD AND ASSURE THEMSELVES THAT AS A TEAM THE RIGHT DECISION WILL BE MADE.”

“ON BEHALF OF THE STAGS I WOULD LIKE TO THANK RAF ODIHAM FOR HOSTING US SO WELL AND HELPING THE STAGS DEVELOP AS A TEAM THAT MUCH BETTER.”

58 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 LANDING ZONE / CELEBRATING 20 YEARS 2020 59 daughter and granddaughter, Mrs Penny Williams was SSgt Shorter GPR, Sgt Geoff Bates and Mrs Kerry Bates. Many GPR Baulk was Sjt Barwick Ox & Bucks, Cpl Lee 6 AAC D-DAY 75TH friends and family were watching as Doran was Cpl Bateman Ox & Bucks, Airtpr well as people in various forms of WW2 Terry Webb was Pte Everett Ox & Bucks. The re-enactment dress who were able to learn Admin Team comprised: WO2 Savill 678 of the team’s achievements so far being Sqn, Airtpr Page 678 Sqn & Airtpr Atkinson as it was read out by invited speakers. 677 Sqn. The support this team provided “RUN TO THE BRIDGES” The team were warmly welcomed to was outstandingly throughout mainly Ouistreham by Mayor Salvatore Bellomo. with cups of tea every 5 miles. Shortly afterwards the minibus departed Article written by Capt William Holland. to the River Dives bridge where a Plaque All the team embraced what this ultra- modern-day glider, in the Ouistreham/Caen on the evening on the was placed on the small road bridge to run/walk was about - a commemoration form of a minibus escorted 5th. The channel crossing was calm, and honour the soldiers in Glider 4 from the in honouring and not forgetting all the by 6 runners, deployed the team managed to get some rest. Once GPR and the 22 Plt Ox and Bucks, who men who took the Pegasus, Horsa and from the HQ of 678 Sqn docked at Ouistreham at 0645 on the 6th mistakenly crash landed deep in German Dives Bridges, while not forgetting all 6 Army Air Corps, John they received a brief on the day’s events - at held territory in 1944. These soldiers, once those who were involved in assaulting the Howard Barracks in Milton this time 75 years ago allied soldiers were they got out of the glider, had realised 5 beaches and those that were Glided in AKeynes, via Tarrant Rushton airfield on the landing on sword beach with a mission they were not where they should be, throughout the coming days after D Day 4th June 2019, headed for Pegasus Bridge. to cross Pegasus Bridge which had now and regrouped before winning a firefight by the magnificent GPR. “Run to the Bridges” The glider was waved off by the outgoing been taken. The runners and the support against a German patrol with the loss of was organised by and incoming Commanding Officers, Lt team all walked together along the three some soldiers, and then fighting their way The team were all immensely proud the Veterans Charity Colonel Marcus Brown and Lt Col Jon miles of the Caen Canal to the Pegasus and back through flooded lands and German and it was extremely humbling and (VC) to commemorate Lowe, along with RSM WO1 Melita Jarvis. River Orne Bridges. fighting patrols to Pegasus Bridge, 10 miles physical endurance experience. “The away, to re-join D Company. original D Day mission was a Coup de the 75th anniversary Main (surprise attack) to seize Pegasus of the World War II and Horsa bridges and marked the first mission embarked combat operation of the D-Day landings. upon by British Glider Horsa Gliders flown by the GPR towed by Halifax Bombers across the channel were Pilots Regiment used to crash land troops as near to the (GPR) and Oxford bridges as possible with the instructions and Buckinghamshire to capture and hold the strategic position until relieved. It is considered by many (Ox and Bucks) historians and Generals of the time to troops, who took off have been instrumental to the success of from Tarrant Rushton the D Day landings. The AAC team raised airfield late evening over £6000, and were truly delighted with all the supporters both military and on the 5th June 1944. The runners included 1 Officer and 4 civilian - thank you. If you are inspired by Soldiers from 6AAC, with an additional these efforts and want to test your long runner from 3 AAC. Admin support distance running or walking in the steps throughout was provided by 3 soldiers of the GPR or Ox and Bucks, please look at from 6 AAC. The team all finished this the Forces March 5 marathons 5 days with ultra-75th commemoration back at the Veterans Charity from 20-24 May 2020. Pegasus Bridge having run back from the River Dives Bridge, which was the Glider 4 Ham and Jam (Ox and Bucks) landing Position on the 6th June 1944. Nothing is Impossible (GPR)

As the runners passed through Tarrant Local dignitaries along with huge crowds Rushton airfield on Tuesday 4th June 2019, of people were there to welcome the they were given the ‘go! go! go!’ by a veteran team onto and across Pegasus Bridge to of Gold Beach, Mr Reg Charles who had the landing marker of Glider no 1 at Major landed there on D+18 with 1 Ox and Bucks. John Howard Bust. A pipe band led all the The glider set off around Tarrant Rushton way, really boosting everyone’s thoughts airfield perimeter, soaking up the spirits of and spirits, and providing an emotional those that flew off to fight the enemy in and physical lift for the final ten miles ll runners who took part in the event, were 1944, then headed east via many hot sticky to the River Dives Bridge where Glider 4 each wearing a t-shirt bearing the name tarmac miles towards Portsmouth. They landed. 95 soldiers and civilians had joined of one of the 186 GPR and Ox and Bucks made their way through the New Forest the team for the run to the bridges portion soldiers who took off from Tarrant Rushton under the clear starry sky, eventually in France, of all different ages and abilities. to start D-Day for real called Operation running around the busy morning city of DEADSTICK. The AAC runners wore the Southampton. The route then took them A short ceremony was held at Glider following t shirts: Captain Dutch Holland slowly past Fareham and down into the no 1 landing marker with the Mayor of was L/sgt Tich Rayner Ox & Bucks, Sgt ferry port, boarding the 2200hrs ferry to Ouistreham along with Major John Howard’s Ade Bell was SSgt Lawrence GPR, Sgt Taff

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PHOTO: PO(PHOvT) BURKE/MOD

Headquarters Squadron We started our business to help you in yours. (HQ Sqn) conducted its Whether its from your kitchen table or from your garage, wherever first Adenture Training simpleyou trade we’ve straightforward got you covered. Simple safe - straightforward - safe course to qualify three of the Sqn members for future activities. You could be in the Algarve, relaxing in the sun... apt Jimmy Lyons MBE, SSgt A spacious 1 bedroom apartment with shared swimming pool. The apartment is situated on the top floor of a 3 Neil Redler and Cpl Andrea Charlesworth attended the storey block. Quiet location, but only 5 mins walk to the marina and another 5 mins to the town centre. trail leaders’ course with 4 other service personnel Self Catering Holiday Apartment from the AHF at Wattisham CAirfield. The training was organised by Neil • Twin bedroom. Redler and involved a civilian company • Open plan kitchen & lounge. that would qualify students as ‘mountain • The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, bike leaders’ on completion of the course. oven, microwave, toaster The training started on Sat 29 Jun and was and washing machine. delivered by the civilian instructor utilising • Family sized bathroom. the new HQ Sqn Training HuB facilities at • The lounge has a sofa (which Wattisham (insert picture 1). After a day’s converts into two single beds) PRICES ON class room and agility training on a small REQUEST and a table to seat four. mountain bike assault course the training STARTING AT • A TV and DVD moved to Thetford forest. On Sun 30 Jun £295 PER WEEK 19, each student delivered instruction on • Patio doors open onto the bike maintenance, route selections and balcony, offering views over safely moving a group of cyclist along the pool and across Lagos. medium terra in cycle routes/paths. An • Ample parking space in enjoyable course that has given each of front of the building. the Reservists and Regular personnel an adventure training qualification using the www.algarve-retreats.com/ Standard Learning Credits funding. Phone Judith on property-to-rent/apartment-meia.htm 01536 711884

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