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T H E J H C D E L I V E R I N G J O I N T S U C C E S S O N O P E R A T I O N S
Celebrating
RAF100
J O U R N A L O F T H E J O I N T H E L I C O P T E R C O M M A N D
CONTENTS
COVER STORY 19
RAF 100 Celebrations at RAF
Andover, RAF Benson and RAF
Odiham...................................... 08
LESSONS CORNER
Using DLIMS.............................. 14
10
OPERATIONS
RAF Ensign Over Army HQ....... 07
661 Sqn – Support to Op 25
CABRIT ‘The story so far’.......... 26
CAPABILITY
The Commando Merlin MK4
Has Arrived................................ 16
Designing A Display
Masterpiece............................... 19
Joint Helicopter Support
Squadron (JHSS)
– RAF Benson............................ 20
Jeanne D’Arc Deployment
– A Snapshot from the Pacific... 24 20
PEOPLE
Chinook Support to
Poppy Appeal............................ 05
RAF 100 Baton Relay................. 12
RAF 100 at RAF Stafford........... 25
Queen’s Birthday Honours
List 2018..................................... 31
SAFETY
JHC Safety Team, Hang gliding
and Paragliding......................... 28
16
This publication is copyright Lance Publishing Limited and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without prior written permission of Lance Publishing Limited.
While every care has been taken during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Publishing Limited cannot be held responsible for accuracy of the information herein or for any consequence
arising from it. Views Expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Royal Air Force or the Ministr y of Defence. All images © Crown Copyright unless other wise stated.
Foreword MeettheTeam
EDITORIAL
Editor: Lt Col Al Bambridge
E: Allan.Bambridge507@mod.gov.uk
T: 01264 382 086
–
SALES
Sales Manager: Laurence Rowe
E: laurence@lancepublishing.co.uk
T: 01536 526 678
–
DESIGNER
Designer: Holly Daniels
E: holly@lancepublishing.co.uk
T: 01536 526 671
–
PUBLISHER
This issue of LZDZ marks the Reconnaissance Teaming (ART), proving Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor,
zenith of RAF 100 celebrations and the concept of laser target designation, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering,
my congratulations go to all RAF we must ensure we continue to master the Northants NN16 8NL
basics and empower our junior personnel. T: 01536 512 624
I
personnel for this achievement.
This will promote leadership and prepare E: mike@lancepublishing.co.uk
t has been a busy period across the JHC to our people for the challenging environments W: www.lancepublishing.co.uk
support this milestone, from dinner nights they will encounter in the future. Company Registration No. 3253372
to charity events, and it culminated in the Change and budgetary constraints will –
RAF 100 flypast and parade in London continue for the foreseeable future. The PRINTER
where JHC helicopters and personnel took Modernising Defence Programme (MDP) Lance Print Ltd, 29/30 Stapledon Road,
pride of place at the head of the impressive continues and we are not likely to see the Orton Southgate, Peterborough PE2 6TD
array of RAF aircraft both past and present. outcomes or decisions until later this year. T: 01733 390 564
Life around the Command has continued Tied to MDP is the Rotary Wing Basing E: lanceprint@lanceprint.co.uk
at pace. 661 Sqn AAC has completed a Optimisation study which I know from my W: www.lanceprint.co.uk
very successful deployment in support of unit visits is a cause for concern for some –
Op CABRIT in Estonia, a first operational of you. I will ensure that as soon as any FURTHER INFORMATION
deployment for Army Wildcat. Puma continues decisions are made you will be informed. W: w ww.mod.uk/defenceinternet/
to support Op TORAL and as we go to press The Autumn period will continue to be aboutdefence/whatwedo/
3 Chinooks from RAF Odiham have achieved busy and will see JHC play an integral part airsafetyandaviation/jhc
IOC on an 18-month operational deployment in the largest Defence overseas exercise
to Mali on Op NEWCOMBE, in support of in recent years taking place in Oman, a
French operations in the Sahel. In addition to fantastic opportunity to consolidate skills and
the operational deployments, multinational training. As we approach the Summer leave
interoperability exercises have continued period, I urge you all to take some time to
with helicopters and personnel from CHF, recharge and reenergise and where you can
AHF, ARF and SHF working closely with our spend time with your family and loved ones.
NATO and coalition allies across the globe. For those who remain deployed over the
As we continue to hone our war fighting summer, keep safe and keep delivering.
skills, be it conducting complex deep
strike at scale exercises as seen recently Rear Admiral Jon Pentreath OBE RN
during Ex TALON GRAVIS, or Attack Commander JHC
O
n a very sunny excitedly, awaiting the Chinook.
May afternoon, Word soon came through that
the RAF Odiham the helicopter had lifted and
Engagements and was on its way, so the children
Media Team, along with the held hands and tried not to look
SWO went to Buryfields School up, which was quite difficult
in Odiham village to oversee for them. Flt Lt Stu Kynaston
the taking of a photograph. This brought all his display pilot
was no ordinary photograph skills to bear, so as not to blow
however; this particular snap any hats off and SAC Pippa
would be taken from the back Fowles, from the photographic
of a hovering Chinook. section, took the shots. After
The combined children of only ten minutes, the helicopter
Buryfields and Mayhill Schools departed to complete its tasking
would form a huge poppy shape and left behind some 400 very
on the Buryfields playing field, excited children (and teachers).
wearing black or red tops and The school will be using the
hats to colour the poppy. The images on cards, posters and
detailed organisation by Mrs calendars to raise money for two
Emma Flynn from Buryfields very well-deserving charities;
School, using coloured bean SSAFA and the Royal British
bags to show the children Legion. So, if you happen to see
exactly where to sit, meant them on sale in the village, put
that they found their places your hand in your pocket and
very quickly and sat chatting support these great causes.
Wings Presentation to 28
Commando Merlin Course
Rear Admiral J Pentreath Commanding Officer Joint helicopter Command was 846 Naval Air squadron’s
guest of honour at 28 Commando Wings Parade held at RNAS Yeovilton. 846 Naval Air Squadron
is the Commando Helicopter Force’s (CHF) training squadron, which trains new helicopter pilots or
converts existing helicopter pilots to fly the Merlin helicopter in CHF. It also trains existing Royal Navy
and Royal Marines personnel to become Aircrewmen in CHF’s Merlin and Wildcat helicopters.
Commando Pilot To be awarded their wings, operations; all of which same syllabus as the pilots,
Training – Merlin Pilots complete an extremely culminates in an exercise in demanding a high degree
After graduating from demanding course using field conditions with real time of knowledge and crew
Britannia Royal Naval College an advanced simulator facility tasking and an cooperation. Aircrewmen are
at Dartmouth, Fleet Air at RAF Benson and flying operational overlay. instrumental in the role of
Arm Student Pilots are the real aircraft from the Commando Merlin Mk3
trained initially on light RNAS Yeovilton. 846 Naval Commando Aircrewmen for undertaking operational
fixed-wing aircraft at RAF Air Squadron (NAS) provides Training – Merlin capabilities such as Load
Barkston Heath. They then a tailored course that Student Commando Lifting, Winching, Fast Roping
complete their Basic Flying results in a graduate being Aircrewmen in the Royal Navy/ and Confined Areas.
Training at RAF Shawbury able to competently operate Royal Marines can either
flying the single-engine Squirrel as part of a front line crew transfer across from other Future
helicopter. On completion with minimal further training. specialisations of mainstream From today the graduates
of the course Fleet After learning the handling RN/RM service or join will move to the frontline
Air Arm students are skills required to safely as direct entrants. After where they can expect
streamed to Wildcat or Merlin conduct flying by day, night basic training on the Squirrel to be involved in worldwide
Operational Conversion and when in cloud, they move helicopter, students complete operations in support of UK
Flights. Commando Merlin on to undertake all the the Joint Aircrewman Course Government Defence
Mk3 candidates remain at disciplines required on on the twin-engined Griffin Policy. The Commando Merlin
Shawbury, flying the twin operations. This involves low at RAF Shawbury. On Aircrew will join either 845
engined Griffin helicopter level navigation, Night Vision completion of the course NAS or 846 NAS, the
before continuing their training Goggle (NVG) flying, load students join the Operational two front line Commando
on the Merlin at RNAS lifting, mountain flying, Conversion Flight at 846 Merlin Squadrons at Yeovilton,
Yeovilton. formation and embarked NAS. The course follows the where they will be at 5
Over Army HQ
With the kind permission
of the Stn Cdr and support
from the Garrison Sgt
Major, the Royal Air Force
contingent was granted the
rare privilege of flying their
ensign over Army HQ on
their 100th anniversary.
CELEBRATIONS
at RAF Andover, RAF Benson and RAF Odiham
H
Q JHC played host Military unit to be equipped
to distinguished and with helicopters. It was in 2009
honourable guests the former airfield changed its
at RAF Andover’s name to Marlborough lines and Top Table: Top row: Gp Capt H Cormack, Gp Capt J Appleton,
Officers Mess for one night only. became home to Army HQ. Air Cdr A Smith, Gp Capt L Turner. Bottom row: Brig M
On 15 March 2018 the Officers With an abundance of parent Keating, AM S Atha, R Adm J Pentreath, AVM D Cooper.
Mess at RAF Andover was reborn Service guests in attendance
in recognition of the RAF’s the RAF 100 Dinner was both a of the critics. All made possible who seamlessly performed iconic
centennial birthday on 1 April privilege and fitting occasion to with the insightful creativity of Flt RAF Anthems to accompany
2018. The 100-year experiment recognise the humble beginnings Lt Rich Green and the enthusiastic dinner and the kind generosity
was placed under fashionable of the world’s first independent tri-service actors and contributions of the Old Sarum Aviation
scrutiny for guests to enjoy, mock Air Force and acknowledge within HQ JHC including the Museum for loaning several
and banter in true interservice the combined effort and input cameo role from DComd JHC. museum artefacts for the event
spirit and humour. The occasion from both the Royal Navy and Credit is due to the The Band to capture atmosphere and bring
was graced and honoured to the British Army to create the of the Corps of Royal Engineers a marker in history alive.
host two senior RAF guests; RAF as we know it today.
AM Atha and AVM Cooper. Three timely vignettes were
RAF Andover was a former interspersed throughout the
RFC unit and housed many RAF evening to bring to life the RAF’s
units between wars. During inception, notable operations,
World War II it was used by evolution through to what may
several operational flying have been, had the 100-year
units as well as the first British experiment played into the hands
W
ith RAF100 fast So when they invited the
approaching back station to celebrate RAF100
in September with them it was a wonderful
2017, many opportunity to show the people
requests were being made for of Basingstoke how much their
events in the local community. support over the years has been
One of the most important appreciated and to fully involve
came from the Mayor’s Office them in the RAF100 occasion.
in Basingstoke. Basingstoke has Along with the Basingstoke
lived with the Chinook Force Branch of the Royal Air Forces
on its doorstep for many years Association, it quickly became
and has become extremely clear that as far as the town
proud of their association was concerned, they were
with the Chinook Force and a blank canvas, willing to
RAF Odiham as a whole. support our celebrations in
>>>
any way that they could. The final practice was observed
Plans were soon drawn up for by the Station Commander
a parade through London Road, and the SWO, both of whom
ending at War Memorial Park for were impressed by the
a ceremony to commemorate standard of drill achieved.
this grand occasion. A fly past The one factor that caused
was organised from 18 (B) everyone to hold their breath
Sqn and the icing on the cake was, of course, the weather.
was when we were told that Fortunately, the Met Office
the Central Band of the Royal pulled a few strings and ensured
Air Force Regiment would a glorious sunny day for us.
be able to attend – a really The parade consisted of RAF
exciting addition considering Odiham personnel, as well as
their extremely busy schedule a flight of veterans (showing
this particular year! that drill is a skill you never
Parade practices were soon lose completely), as well as
underway under the watchful the Air Cadets to represent
eye of the Parade Marshal, the future of the RAF. After
FS Palmer, and Odiham’s two setting off at 10:40 from the
qualified Drill Instructors, Sgt bottom end of London Road,
Williams and Cpl Farrington. the parade arrived in War
BATON RELAY
Starting at the Royal Courts of using materials that symbolise Team on 8th April 2018. Despite
Justice and lasting 100 days, aircraft construction through the rainy weather, there was a
the relay featured people from the ages. Each baton carrier had great turn out from local families
across the RAF, the communities just a start and end point but the who gathered to support the
we serve and past members. method of transportation was left cyclists as they arrived with the
The baton, which features the down to each individual or team. baton. All those present had the
RAF crest and RAF100 logo, was The Baton was delivered to opportunity to have pictures
designed by young RAF recruits RAF Odiham by the RAF Cycling with the baton to commemorate
>>>
Lessons on DLIMS
– the Defence Lessons Identified
Management System
W
elcome once have in common is that they are • JHC has its own domain dlims.ahe.r.mil.uk/webpages/
again to lessons both ‘management systems.’ on DLIMS. This has been in parentview.aspx. (must be
corner, this edition A couple of key facts place for over 7 years and opened via Google Chrome).
focusses on DLIMS regarding DLIMS that as a result we now have
– the Defence Lessons Identified everyone should be aware: a corporate knowledge USING DLIMS AS A
Management System. Many of the • It is the tool used by the base / library of over 2300 SEARCH TOOL
readers of LZDZ will be familiar whole of Defence for the lessons and observations. One of the most useful functions
with ASIMS and the DASOR management of lessons. • It’s simple to use – all of DLIMS is its utility as a search
process, likely using it on a regular • It isn’t particularly well members of JHC (anyone tool, the search tool can be
basis, well DLIMS has no relation supported – the annual with a Dii / MODNET used by anyone (at the website
to ASIMS at all..! In fact is nothing budget to maintain / update account) can access it at the address above) as shown in
like it and the only thing that they the system is around £20,000. following address: https:// the following screenshots:
THE ‘ADVANCED SEARCH’ FACILITY IS LOCATED TOP LEFT OF THE HOME SCREEN:
OTHER USES FOR DLIMS / exercise report / presentation). discussed. Every item raised where any actions carried out /
Of course, DLIMS isn’t just DLIMs guidance is contained from every exercise / operation changes introduced to resolve a
a library that can be used within J7/CI/05 which states that will be entered onto DLIMs lesson are logged and tracked.
for conducting searches. To the JHC DLIMS domain is “used by the HQ JHC Lessons staff
enable greater functionality to record the development / – creating additional records JHC LESSONS / USE OF
for the user and to add / edit progress of all JHC lessons.” for the corporate library. But DLIMS GOING FORWARD
/ update lessons a DLIMS In practice, on completion importantly, any lessons that The HQ JHC Lessons staff are
account is required – accounts of every major exercise or are adopted at the MJP will be continually striving to improve
can be granted through the operation the commanding JHC worked to resolution through our lessons process and broaden
HQ JHC Lessons Staff and unit / Avn TF should submit a the use of DLIMS – individuals the understanding and use
requests should be made PxR / PoR (in accordance with who are responsible for making of DLIMS amongst forces. If
through Lt Col Stephen J7/CI/030), a post exercise / changes / completing actions you have any questions at all
James (JHC SO1 Doctrine). operation presentation and need to track and update regarding DLIMS or JHC Lessons
Regular readers of lessons Military Judgement Panel (MJP) progress via DLIMS, thus please direct them to the HQ
corner will be familiar with the will follow up to 8 weeks after making DLIMS the information JHC Lessons staff, we will be in
two JHC Command Instructions the exercise / operation has management tool from which an touch with force and unit HQs
that detail our lessons process taken place. At the MJP, all of issue raised from an operation or in the near future to discuss
(J7/CI/05: Lessons management the LIs / observations raised exercise is worked / developed our lessons process going
and exploitation, J7/CI/030: within the PxR/PoR and detailed and ultimately resolved. In simple forward so don’t be surprised
Guidance on JHC post operation during the presentation will be terms, DLIMS becomes the area if you hear from us first.
”
the MTG and Defence is what else
do they need CHF to do? Looking
at this in detail, it was quite
AND SO SAID GUTO BEBB The aircraft is fully optimised for HMS Queen Elizabeth. clear the MTG needed Support
MINISTER FOR DEFENCE ship operations with features Each of CHF’s Merlin Helicopters (SH) to support them
PROCUREMENT WHEN that include automatic main squadrons has a defined role. internally within the task group
HE VISITED CHF AT RNAS rotor blade and tail folding, 845 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) and between the task group
YEOVILTON ON THE 24TH MAY. uprated undercarriage and and 846 NAS will both use the and shore because the MTG
He announced the delivery of the enhanced avionics and cockpit Cdo Me MK4 for amphibious will spend a lot time away from
first of a fleet of new helicopters features which were developed transport of troops and supplies shore because of force protection
designed for Royal Marines for the Royal Navy’s Merlin HM2 for 3 Commando Brigade. issues; avoiding aggressor missile
aircraft carrier operations. The helicopter. Folded, four Cdo Me 845 NAS is CHF’s High systems etcetera. They need an
Commando Merlin (Cdo Me) will sit in the footprint of one Readiness Squadron for aircraft with endurance which the
Mk4, has been upgraded to a Chinook helicopter. The aircraft contingency. This key role Merlin has with over 3.5 hours
modernised, marinised, faster and additionally features an upgraded is necessary to support the of fuel (standard range without
more powerful aircraft than its self-protection system, tactical Maritime Task Group (MTG) external tanks is 576 miles (927
predecessor. The Minister said: processor, and is fitted capable going forward following the kms)). The Cdo Me HC4 is a
“This new version of the Merlin of full instrument procedures to introduction of the UK’s new tactical aircraft, fully marinised
will provide an essential bridge allow global self-deployments generation of aircraft carriers. and it is strategic in that CO CHF
between sea and land for our through controlled airspace. CHF has assessed what the can self-deploy the aircraft from
Marines operating from ships, The aircraft has received the future operating environment is Somerset in Yeovilton to Cyprus
including our brand-new aircraft latest generation Defensive and where the threats are likely in less than 36 hours. The Cdo
carriers. This fleet will deliver Aids System which can identify to come from and have tied that Me can also be loaded into the
troops and supplies to the centre hostile weapons systems rapidly in with the future Commando back of a C-17 in approximately
of the action, be that a conflict and can initiate appropriate forces and the new carriers 18 hours, and can then be
zone or the site of a humanitarian tactics and countermeasures. that are coming into service. In flown anywhere in the world.
disaster, as well as providing The modifications are designed addition to the tactical movement
search and rescue cover”. to ensure it can now operate
The event saw the unveiling from sea including on the
of the first Cdo Me MK4 in a UK’s new aircraft carrier,
blaze of light, smoke and sound
whilst Royal Marines Commandos
exited the rear ramp before
the head and tail folded.
Background
CHF’s Merlin HC3/3A fleet
is currently in the process of
upgrade under the Merlin Life
Sustainment Programme (MLSP).
This will see all 25 aircraft
upgraded to HC4/4A standard.
”
for. The Merlin is an exceptional other fixed wing assets that are
aircraft than its predecessor. aircraft for this role with its ramp, in the overhead protecting us.
three light General Purpose It is essential that CHF maintain
Much attention has been operation. CHF continue to Machine Guns (GPMG), ballistic force protection in this combined
focussed on the aircraft carrier work up packages to support protection, advanced Defensive operational environment. That
and the F-35Bs operating from both entities in the future. If for Aids Suite (DAS), tactical threat is very real and in the past
their decks with scant thought example the unfortunate happens processors, speeds in excess the UK has had to use USAF
for the integral part that CHF and a rotary or fixed wing aircraft of 160 knots and highly trained Combat Search and Rescue
Cdo Me HC4s will play in their goes down ashore in a threat crews specialised in the low level (CSAR) for the tactical recovery
IMAGES
courtesy of Mark
Bryan, Kevin Willis,
Simon Prior (Leonardo) CONTINUED >>>
Designing A Display
“As and ex-RAF serviceman, to
be involved in such a significant
Masterpiece
milestone as the RAF100 display
has been a real honour. This
project was one of the biggest
challenges I’ve undertaken
to-date, due to the size and
intricacy of the task. However
I could see right from the start
that this was going to be very
upgraded helmets now arriving rewarding for me personally. I’ve
in service at Odiham, there was always relished being challenged
an excess stock of the older type and to work along side Flight
which enabled the project. Lieutenant Andy Donovan again,
RAF Odiham’s Station who has led us to produce four
Commander, Group Captain huge paint designs on Odiham-
Lee Turner, has been incredibly based aircraft in recent years, I
supportive of the display team knew it was a team to make this
since he and 27 Squadron selected a memorable event. The icing on
the crew late last year. When the cake was being asked to carry
shown the design for the helmets out such a special design on his
he gave the project his backing crew’s helmets for each member
and that paved the way for 27’s of the prestigious display team!”
safety equipment specialists – Mr James Littlejohn
to start stripping down the The helmet was designed by
electronics from redundant Mk4 team co-pilot Flt Lt Andy Donovan
helmets ready for the paint bay and incorporates the eagle from
to begin their work. Luckily, with the Royal Air Force crest as it’s
upgraded helmets now arriving biggest feature. Amazingly, when
Helmets adorned with custom designs are a relatively in service at Odiham, there was you stand close to it you realise
common thing to behold in the world of military an excess stock of the older type that it’s white details are further
aviation, especially in the display world, but few come which enabled the project. embellished with black shadows
in as elaborate a form as the 2018 Chinook Display Leading the paint bay team at behind which is quite beautiful
helmets and even less are replicated seven times! Odiham is Mr James Littlejohn, but must have been incredibly
who learned his trade in the days fiddly to do once, let alone seven
T
he Chinook Display directing what markings were to when the RAF had its own painters times! So why seven? As we know
crews have for many be applied to a Chinook airframe and finishers. Now contracted out there are three pilots and three
years flown with painted for RAF100 the team turned their to Serco, the facility at Odiham is crewmen qualified on the display
helmets but these have attention towards celebrating with a busy one so James agreed to routine but another helmet has
tended to be simple in nature and their helmets…and what a result! assist the team in his own spare been painstakingly crafted for
consisting of stripes of the British RAF Odiham’s Station time. It was December 2017 when this year’s display manager; the
National or Squadron colours. For Commander, Group Captain the helmets arrived into the bay, intent being that it will be made
the RAF100 season the team felt Lee Turner, has been incredibly making it a 6-month project from available for people to view at air
that the time was right to produce supportive of the display team start to finish! Asking James shows whenever the team is able
something quite staggering, not since he and 27 Squadron selected about the RAF100 year, he was to achieve a ground footprint.
“
only to celebrate the milestone the crew late last year. When clearly keen to play his part. Flt Lt Donovan
but also to showcase the talents shown the design for the helmets
”
pleased with how they have turned out.
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“
from Lt Olly Leisk RN
F
It was my first time operating with the
S DIXMUDE departed
British detachment. It was interesting
the port of Darwin on 19
May just before midday
to work alongside their procedures
en route to its next which I believe worked well. It was also
destination. 847 NAS remain on very interesting to have two aircraft
board having just completed of two very different generations
the pre-planned changeover
of personnel. This includes a
flying together. The Alouette I fly is
new Detachment Commander, 53 years old and the first flight of
Maj Rich Moore and a new Ops
Commando Wildcat over the the Alouette 3 was in 1959. A good
officer, Lt Dan Burnett. Maj
northern Australian plain as contrast of the old and the very new.
Brett Collins USMC is also on
– LV Henri, Alouette Pilot
”
seen from the French Alouette
board as the detachment XO.
on board FS DIXMUDE
Darwin Navigation Exercise Paul Melling and Lt Oliver Leisk
Once back at sea, 847 wasted no with POACMN Kieron Lovett as
time in getting back into flying the aircrewman. The formation
operations. The first evolution NAVEX was a great opportunity
was a NAVEX over the outback for the Royal Navy crews to
Testing the
of Australia’s Northern Territory work together with the sole
Wildcat’s
in formation with the Alouette 3 French aviation asset on board.
EO sensor
helicopter from FS DIXMUDE. 847
to ID
NAS aircrew have been briefing Winch Training/Vertrep
some local
“
with and operating alongside The new aircrew on board hit
wildlife!
the Alouette crews for the past the ground running with the
”
ammunition
Training Officer load.
few months however, this is the main priority being to get them
first time they have operated all qualified to operate from
together. The Commando Wildcat the FS DIXMUDE as well as a number of VERTREP, winching, was not a technique that they
led the formation flown by Lt provide SAR cover. To this end, boat transfers, SAR and Hi Lines use – they were impressed.
training sorties were conducted As soon as the 847 NAS
with the DIXMUDE and her escort aircrew were qualified, their
frigate, FS SURCOUF. Hi Lines is a services were required in an
Commando
specific skill that prepares crews ammunition VERTREP from the
Wildcat
to rescue stranded sailors from FS DIXMUDE to the FS SURCOUF
lifting with
small vessels, which they could not on Friday 25 May. The sortie was
the Alouette
safely winch to – such as yachts planned to take three hours to
3 from FS
or oil rigs with unusable helipads. carry 16 loads of 500kg loads of
DIXMUDE
The French Alouette crew found ammunition between the two
this technique interesting as it ships. The task was completed
RAF 100 AT
in less than two hours with all had two members swimming at
loads transported as requested. one time. They would complete
The French command were very two 50m lengths of the well
RAF STAFFORD
appreciative of the help from deck and then tap in the next
847 NAS as well as the efficiency two from their team. However,
with which it was carried out. This the next two-person team
allowed them to minimize any could not start swimming until
headway that would have been both from the previous team
lost by following a flying course. had finished their swim. This
Load team
positioning
to lift a
second
load after
dropping
off another.
T
Wednesday 23 May marked of a team exercise as well as
the French ‘Navy Day’. This is a competitive one. 847 NAS o mark RAF 100 RAF Stafford itself was founded
similar to the British military’s finished a commendable third celebrations, Tactical in September 1939; just as war
Armed Forces Day. Across out of five departments – coming Supply Wing (TSW) was declared, when the treasury
the French fleet, all crews only 4-5 meters behind the based at MOD Stafford authorised the purchase of
participate in some form of team that took second place. Beacon Barracks, arranged for 362 acres of land just outside
sporting competition. This year Everyone in the detachment got the tail of the Hawker Siddeley the town of Stafford. No 16
FS DIXMUDE held a swimming involved, with many volunteering Harrier GR3 gate guard to be Maintenance Support Unit was
competition in their well deck. to do multiple swims after the repainted with an RAF 100 and formed on 1 December 1939
847 NAS bolstered the ranks of aviation department struggled TSW crest themed livery. amidst strong pressure to bring
the aviation department. Teams to fill the whole team sheet. It is important to remember RAF Stafford to operational
that the Harrier stood proudly status quickly. It was then not
as gate guard for RAF Stafford until 1952 that RAF Stafford
from 1993 until 31 March 2006 was granted its Unit Badge.
when RAF Stafford became TSW which was formed at
MOD Stafford. Tail number XZ RAF Stafford in 1970, became
987 itself came into service on operational in 1971 and remains
9 September 1981 with 3 sqn at the only RAF unit at MOD
RAF Gutersloh, Germany. It was Stafford. The Harrier’s bright
then sent to Belize on 27 July red tail bearing TSWs’ crest is a
1990. In 1992 XZ 987 suffered a fitting tribute as part of RAF 100
Ship’s company receives a brief on the rules for the wheels up landing in Belize and celebrations and to remember
swimming competition. The aviation department, subsequently made its way back the Station’s RAF heritage.
including 847, can be seen just to the left of Spot 5. to the UK for repairs. Deemed
irreparable it was sent to RAF Plt Off Rosalind Charles
Stafford to become a gate guard. – TSW Holding Officer
I
programme of flying and ground With preparations complete,
t has been said that one of towards the end of 2017. As a training serials which culminated the squadron started to deploy in
the greatest challenges of squadron that had very recently in Exercise MAPLE STRIKE. early April. An advance party of
leadership is when you are been held at high readiness and Deploying to Kirkudbright training enablers were shortly followed by
required to take people on a made preparations for, but not area and subsequently West the main elements of manpower
journey to a destination that is not deployed on, Op RUMEN (support Freugh, the squadron was able to by air and equipment by sea to
entirely known, via a route that to disaster relief in the Caribbean), complete air to ground gunnery, establish the foothold at Amari
has not been travelled before. The the squadron was well placed to tactical flying in simulated high Air Base. A small road party of
deployment of 661 Sqn in support be able to plan and deliver the Op threat environments and mission REME engineers and essential
of Op CABRIT has been one such CABRIT deployment. The priority specific training. Meanwhile maintenance equipment set off
challenge. This was to be the first was to understand the nature the engineering and logistical a day ahead of the air party to
operational deployment of the of the task and the environment preparations were relentless provide support en route. On 11
Army’s Wildcat Reconnaissance that we would be operating in. A in the face of tight timelines April the air party consisting of 4
Helicopters (RH) and the first UK small recce party from ARF HQ but, with the support of the Wildcat RH and crews departed
aviation deployed in the region and 1AAC were dispatched to Regiment as the main effort, RNAS Yeovilton bound for the
drawing direct comparisons Estonia in January to brave the the requirements were met Baltics. Despite a blanket of low
with the reconnaissance ethos -20 degree wind chill and bring both in the UK and in Theatre. cloud across southern England
of exploration associated with back the information required A key aspect to 661 Squadron’s the aircraft made it across the
the platform itself. Op CABRIT to set the wheels in motion for preparations was addressing Channel but then had to divert
is the NATO Enhanced Forward the deployment. This was made the conceptual component of due to weather into Gilze-Rijen,
Presence (eFP) mission in all the more easy by the eFP HQ deploying to Estonia in support a Dutch military air base. The
Estonia which was established in country and the extremely of the eFP mission. There is no relief at getting out of the UK
following the NATO Summit accommodating Estonian Air historical precedent or doctrinal in a window of opportunity was
in Warsaw in July 2016. This Force whose representative, Capt parallel that is a neat fit but what tempered by the fact we found
has seen the deployment of a Armin Mau, had completed flying was clear is that this seemingly ourselves alongside Dutch
multinational eFP Battlegroup training at Middle Wallop and small scale contribution had helicopter crews sitting out the
(BG) to provide a proportionate, served in 9 Regt Army Air Corps strategic ripples’ well beyond bad weather. However, we were
defensive and combat capable prior to returning to Estonia. its physical boundaries. With hugely supported by the Dutch
force to deter any potential Options identified, the process of this in mind the squadron made military who serviced all of our
hostile activity in the region. It delivering the preferred solution every effort to immerse itself needs, only too happy to help
was to support this commitment was initiated: this was to see the in the more cerebral aspects a fellow NATO military in need.
that in November 2017 it was squadron based out of Amari Air of preparation which included This would be a common theme
agreed that Wildcat RH would Base with a Forward Operating numerous briefs on Estonian of all the NATO bases that we
be deployed to Estonia in 2018. Base (FOB) in Tapa alongside the history, operating in the Baltics routed through. The following
Preparations began in earnest eFP Battlegroup. Back in the UK and exposure to internet and day saw the aircraft lift for their
for the deployment as we hurtled the focus was on preparing the print media on current issues in onward journey to Holzdorf in
the region. A Permanent Joint Germany whilst the engineers,
Headquarters (PJHQ) led all having stopped in Holland, had
ranks briefing day served to to push on to the next stop by
provide the most up to date road to marry up with the aircraft.
thinking and was made all the That night all elements had
more realistic by the ‘beast from made it to the ex-Red Army base
the east’ snow storm that had approximately an hour from Berlin.
descended on central Somerset. Arriving a day later than planned,
One aspect that served to focus there was significant pressure
the mind on the deployment to get out of the base before it
was the increasing importance closed behind us for 3 days. It was
being placed on strategic to be the longest day which saw
communications and in particular us fly through Poland, Lithuania
the messaging surrounding the and into Latvia for our next stop
deployment of Wildcat RH to at Lielvarde air base. With one
support Op CABRIT. From an aircraft suffering a technical
article in Soldier Magazine to problem we had to remain for 48
interviews and articles pushed hours to await a spare to be driven
661 Sqn Wildcat Helicopters lined up at out through social media, the down from Estonia. This gave us
Amari Airbase, Estonia - ready for another coverage for the deployment was the time to meet with the 1st US
gaining significant momentum Air Cavalry based at Lielvarde
day of tasking in support of Op CABRIT both in anticipation of the aircraft with 5 UH-60 Blackhawks and to
T
E: James.Anderson754@ he article below is a feet are routinely achieved by website can be accessed through
mod.gov.uk ‘throwback’ article from experienced pilots, who circle in the following link: http://www.bhpa.
T: 01264 381488 LZDZ in 2014. Critically thermal lift up to cloudbase and co.uk/clubs/clubs.php?region=uk
acclaimed by the RAF can travel hundreds of kilometres . This will provide a linked list of
JHC SO1 AIR SAFETY Safety Centre and representatives across country. The UK height gain BHPA recreational clubs covering
Wg Cdr Tony Lett RAF of the BHPA, it was widely record for a hang glider is 12000ft the whole of the UK. It also provides
E: Tony.Lett108@mod.gov.uk publicised. It featured in Issue 15 above takeoff (ATO) in wave a map showing their geographical
T: 01264 381220 of Airclues and elements have meteorological conditions, and the locations. The clubs relevant to
been incorporated to the JHC flash duration record stands at just over 8 the intended flight route can then
JHC SO1 GROUND SAFETY magazine as it contains key safety hours! However, these achievements be identified and their websites
Mr David Atkins critical messages. JHC is proud that are exceptional and flights of accessed. For example, if intending
E: David.Atkins107@mod.gov.uk it was written by one of its own; Maj around 2-3hrs with height gains to fly near the South Downs the
T: 01264 381562 Jonathan Gilbert REME, a safety of up to 5000ft ATO, if cloudbase Southern Hang Gliding Club website
case officer and key member of the permits, are more the norm for most should be visited and their Site
JHC SO2 FLIGHT SAFETY JHC Air Safety Team. It serves as experienced cross country pilots. Guide accessed. On doing so, a
Lt Cdr Owen Camplisson a timely reminder that increasingly Most Hang Glider and Paraglider compass rose will appear indicating
E: Owen.Camplisson339@ we are not alone in uncontrolled flying is initiated through foot the range of launch wind directions
mod.gov.uk airspace and a little knowledge launching from steep sided applicable to each club site. The
T: 01264 381591 may be our only safeguard. hills or ridges that face into the well-known site ‘Devils Dyke’ is
‘The peak in sport and leisure prevailing wind. Although winch suitable for launching when the
JHC SO2 SAFETY POLICY aviation activity across the UK and microlight tug launches from wind direction is anywhere between
Gapped during the summer months is airfields are also undertaken, WNW and N. Accessing this site link
E: such that it should become a most pilots prefer the freedom, will reveal considerably more detail,
T: major consideration during the independence and low cost but most significantly it specifies the
planning process of any flight associated with foot launching from best launch wind direction (NW) – a
JHC SO2 RISK MANAGEMENT through uncontrolled airspace; the a hill or terrain feature. Furthermore, clear indication as to when the site
Sqn Ldr Adam Foley RAF key concern being maintenance the thermal activity that is will be at its busiest! Additionally,
E: Adam.foley681@mod.gov.uk of adequate separation. sought by pilots is more readily accessing the site guide provides
T: 01264 381554 Since Hang Gliders and triggered by undulating terrain. a useful means of checking for all
Paragliders do not carry radio or Most foot launch flying sites are sites that may be on, or close to,
JHC SO2 SAFETY POLICY transponders, good lookout in the clearly marked on military aviation the route planned. Some of these
& REGULATION vicinity of known launch sites tends 1:50,000 maps and are also listed sites, particularly the smaller ones,
Gapped to be the primary means of glider in the Low Flying Handbook. They might not be marked on the maps
E: avoidance. However, this alone is can therefore be readily identified yet they may become quite busy
T: insufficient; an understanding of for flight planning purposes. when conditions are favourable.
gliding techniques and practices, However, whether or not the sites
JHC SO2 UNMANNED together with an appreciation of will be in use on the day depends Wind Strength
AIR SYSTEMS the weather conditions in which the predominantly on the prevailing Paragliders favour lighter surface
Maj Tania Reay Royal Artillery activity is usually conducted are weather conditions and seasonal site winds up to about 10kts, but Hang
E: Tania.Reay222@mod.gov.uk essential to minimise the chances restrictions, as described below: Gliders can launch quite comfortably
T: 01264 381526 of an air proximity incident. in surface winds up to around 25kts.
Firstly, it is important to dispel Wind Direction Thus, in surface winds of 25kts or
JHC SO3 ASSURANCE the commonly held misconception Attempting to foot launch a glider of below, activity on the into wind sites
WO1 Chris Lay AAC that foot launched gliding is purely any type in crosswind or downwind should be expected. Paragliders
E: Christopher.Lay115@ a glorified sledge ride, involving conditions is very hazardous and greatly outnumber Hang Gliders
mod.gov.uk nothing more than leaping off the therefore as a rule launches will and therefore sites will be at their
T: 01264 381473 top of a hill and gliding down to only take place directly into wind. busiest in lighter wind conditions.
the bottom! The aim of the activity In most cases the primary wind Most of the gliders will fly in the
JHC SO3 ANALYSIS is in fact to gain as much height as direction applicable to a marked ridge-lift-band on the windward side
Gapped possible above the takeoff point foot launch site is obvious from the of the hill and therefore are unlikely
E: using ridge lift and thermals, and topographical features shown on the to rise much higher than 1000ft
T: then head off across country chart. (eg. a northerly facing ridge ATO. However, there will always be a
seeking new thermals will be used when the surface wind cadre of more experienced pilots in
and staying is northerly etc). This will provide their midst who will rise considerably
Hey! Remember airborne as a general indication as to whether higher if conditions permit and then
that it’s a northwesterly long as the site will be in use at the time head off cross country. More often
wind today guys so that possible. but further research is necessary than not their cross country routes
local glider site might Height to establish the full range of wind will be downwind of the launch site.
be active. Its good gains directions suitable for launching. Triangular flights to prearranged
soaring conditions of several The British Hang Gliding and waypoints are perfectly feasible,
today…eyes out! thousand Paragliding Association (BHPA) is the particularly in competition flying.
due to seasonal activities such as could lead to a potential airprox with or avoid the planning to fly close to
pheasant/grouse shooting, lambing with another airspace user. pattern of traffic that minor aerodrome.
and crop sowing. Site operating At a recent UK Airprox Board formed by other Have you checked
periods and limitations (such as no fly Meeting, Airprox Report No 201812 aircraft in operation’ the LFHB? It could
areas) will be clearly specified in the studied a near miss between a - SERA.3225 Operation be busier than
relevant Club Site Guides, accessible Military Hawk T1 and a group of on and in the Vicinity of you think!
through the BHPA website (see paragliders at a site near Westbury an Aerodrome. There will
‘Wind Direction’ paragraph above). just outside Salisbury Plain Danger be more to follow on this
In summary, in order to minimise Area. The pilot was under a high hot topic in the next
Ex POSEIDON STORM
Sivota that night, ready for a short
sail the next day. That night Flt Lt
Carney, prepared for the group
Written by Fg Off Stephen Swart a Fish Stir-Fry. This was, possibly,
Tactical Supply Wing AT - Fri 23rd Mar – Sun 1st Apr 2018 the most anticipated moment of
O
the trip and one worth waiting
n a cold, wet and breakfast and the news that the calm seas the water was warm for. All would agree this was the
windy Staffordshire boats were not here, but a 4 hour and then the feeling of adventure most well planned meal of the
morning 7 personnel drive away in Lefkada. Meeting us truly arrived. We left the bay, back trip and it paid off. Delicious!
from Tactical Supply there were the 2 skippers provided into the surf to sail to Ithkada Friday morning came with a
Wing based at MOD Stafford by Seafarers; Georgios and Becky. where we docked for the night. gentle swell and the now familiar
gathered at 0300 in the MT yard The boats (Stepping Stone and Already miles behind schedule sound of waves lapping against the
ready to depart on an experience Captain John), were assigned their due to the poor weather we had sides of our respective boats. We
of a lifetime. Upon arriving at skippers and crew, and an induction a decision to make. That night made our final journey to Lefkada
Stanstead we met our 8th member followed where we were quite we decided that our route had where we arrived and had our
of the trip, SAC Duke from RAF literally ‘shown the ropes’. That to change; we would sail around final brief from the staff. We were
Odiham. The Ryanair flight passed evening the group bought food the Islands close to us rather than all awarded the Competent Crew
without incident, however an for the journey, which was topped to Corinth, as this was too far qualification, meaning that in the
honourable mention must be given up along the route most nights, away for the time we had left. future we can take part in sailing
to Flt Lt Carney who led TSW then met up for dinner together. With this new plan in mind, the expeditions and work towards our
onto the plane first by taking pole The initial plan was to sail the third day of sailing was sufficiently Day Skipper qualification. We all
position in the boarding queue. boats back to Corinth, so on day more relaxed than the others had went out on the town that night, led
Touching down in Athens was 1 of sailing, we set off onto the been. The sea was calm, and we by our local guide Georgios, which
welcomed by the taller contingent waves; it was a true baptism of could really start to focus more on turned out to be a rather late one.
of the group; Fg Off Swart’s and fire. The sea was very rough, so out sailing skills. We learnt more We woke on Saturday morning
SAC Carter’s legs returning to rough the skippers took control of knots, turns and started on other with sore heads and tired eyes.
more relaxed, uncrushed state. the boats and got the sails away. drills like man-overboard. We Saying our goodbyes to Becky,
We were welcomed in at Arrivals Lunch was attempted to be served pulled up into a small bay for lunch, Georgios, Capt. John and
by a minibus and taxi laid on by on Stepping Stone, however this which was duly followed by a swim Stepping Stone, we headed onto
Seafarers to take us to Corinth, our was quickly abandoned due to sea in the calm waters. The marine life our transport that would take us
first destination, where the boats sickness below decks. Thankfully in this bay was a sight to behold. to Athens – the final part of the
should have been to meet us. the only calls were ‘man down’ We sailed on to Kafelonia where trip. We arrived in Athens early in
After an hour on a beautiful and not ‘man overboard’! We put we stayed the night. Spaghetti the afternoon and checked into
brand new EU-funded motorway the motor on instead, and in the Bolognaise was the order of the hotel. Like the first night, it
passing what used to be Greek interests of safety made for the the night with Chef SAC Carter was most comfortable and we
light industry along the roadside, port for the night at Meganisi Vathi. providing us with a filling meal. settled in before the group split –
we arrived at the hotel for the first That night a humongous Spaghetti Another morning, another some for a nap, others to explore
night. The Kalamaki Beach Hotel Carbonara went some way in intensive Phys session run by Cpl the city. We all reconvened for
was an oasis of calm along the raising our slightly dampened McGuire. Who in his (self-assigned) dinner in the hotel restaurant
Ionian, after settling in to our rooms spirits. All slept very well that role as Ex-PTI encouraged all to before heading out into Athens
and acquainting ourselves with night, safe in the knowledge take part on a daily basis, albeit to a couple of bars to enjoy the
the panoramic views and sea-side we had made it through the 40 with a mixed response from the Greek ambiance and reminisce
swimming pool we all had dinner knot winds and choppy waters. crew! From our port we sailed to about the good times of the trip,
together and FS McGuire delivered Day two started in much the Fiskado on the Wednesday, and it memories we had made and at
a brief detailing the weeks Key same vein as the first; high winds was upon this day that a mythical midnight, the 100 year anniversary
Learning Points, and what we were and treacherous conditions for partnership was born. The 3X of the RAF. Suffice to say, it was a
to expect. A small contingent of the sailing. However by this point the McGuires; FS, Cpl and SAC formed memorable night for all involved.
group later ventured into Corinth crews had gotten used to the a bond so strong that it developed Sunday morning came around
were they set about establishing boat racing along at a near 90 a ‘secret’ sign and name. The too quickly, and with it the
international relations with the degree angle, and sea sickness world is not yet ready for ‘Tri-Gui’. knowledge that the trip had come
locals. They returned quietly to tablet use was in full force! It is fair In honour of the new group, SAC to an end. We packed up our bags,
the hotel later that evening. to say that the conditions were McGuire prepared a sweet and headed to the airport and prepared
Saturday morning started not like any of the team had been sour chicken which cemented to feel the squeeze again of the 4
with a group PT session, a hearty expecting. After lunch the seas the importance of Tri-Gui in hour flight back to the UK. A long
calmed and we found a bay in the minds of all present. journey entailed back to Stafford,
which to drop anchor for a while Waking up on the Thursday for which we must thank TSW MT
and swim around the boat. In the morning we all became very for picking us up at Stanstead
aware of how quickly the trip where we said goodbye to SAC
was going. We carried on sailing Duke, whisking us back up North
with our final port coming ever arriving around 2200 after what
closer. By this time we had all had been a truly amazing, testing
become comfortable with the and fulfilling experience.
Queen’s
STATE, MSMS AND COMMENDATIONS
Birthday Honours
CBE Brig Keating JHC HQ
Air Officer Commanding 2 Group Commendation (AOC 2 Gp) Cpl Turner RAF Odiham
AOC 2 Gp Cpl S A Bryan FTRS RAF Odiham COMD JHC TEAM COMMENDATIONS
AOC 2 Gp SAC M Vassallo Grant RAF Benson 1710 NAS, RAF Benson 1710 NAS
Regional Non Destructive
AOC 2 Gp Team Project HESTIA RAF Odiham Testing Team (RNDTT)
Commendation Pay-as-You-Dine
Mobilisation Team AH Display Team AHF
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