Our Ability Wildcat to React Waves - LZDZ · rapid and very successful deployment of 3 Chinooks and Joint Helicopter Force HQ 3 to India in the wake of the Nepal earthquake. Although

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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

British and American Sappers Building Together

845 NAS on Ex Joint Warrior 151

AAC JNCOs Put Through Their Paces

Ex Joint Warrior

Tests Our Ability to React

847 NAS Wildcat Deck Landing Training

Wildcat on the Waves

CJOAXAmerican Airborne

Exercise Leads the Way for Practical Interoperability

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 2 2015 3

CONTENTS

Contents Issue 2, 2015

COVER STORYEx Joint Warrior Tests Our Ability to React ................. 12

CAPABILITYWelfare Facilities Equipped to Entertain High-readiness Troops ............. 5Wildcat on the Waves ............... 6The End of an Era ..................... 7Wildcat Transition ..................... 8

TRAININGCHF Support the Ten Tors Expedition .................... 10British & American Artillery Train Together ............. 11

British & American Sappers Building Together .................... 14Ex Shamrock Mayne ................ 15CJOAX American Exercise Leads the Way for Practical Interoperability ......................... 16Joint Aircrewman Course ........ 18Ex Neptunes Beard .................. 20Ex Merlin Vortex ....................... 21845 NAS on Exercise Joint Warrior 151 ...................... 22

PEOPLEAirborne Gunners Fire Royal Salute in Colchester .......... 24Soldiers and Sailors Parade Through Yeovil ................. 24

SPORTNorthern Ireland Operational Shooting Competition 2015 ...................... 32Exercise White Knight ............. 33Yeovilton Triathlon ................... 34Army Air Corps Parachuting .............................. 35AAC Female Nordic Skiing ...... 369 Regt AAC Charity Squash Marathon Endurance Event ..... 379 Regt AAC Cycling, Paris-Roubaix 2015 ................... 38AAC Netball ............................. 405 AAC Hit the Hills ................... 41Yeovilton Flying High with Marathon Success .................... 42

US Exchange Pilot Visit to 846 Naval Air Squadron ............. 24Guernsey Liberation Day ...............26 New Name for Suffolk’s Airborne Engineers ................... 27Army on Show to Suffolk Community .................. 27 AAC JNCOs Put Through Their Paces ................ 287 Flight AAC Supports Gurkha 200 Anniversary .......... 30

CHARITYSoldiers Cycle Round the Clock for Charity ................. 30Soldiers Raise Money to Help Nepalese Earthquake Victims .... 31

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 Ministry of Defence. All images © Crown Copyright unless otherwise stated.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSION DATE…

FRIDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER 2015Please submit a l l entr ies for the next is sue by no later than the date s tated above.

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Capability Begins With Training…Aviation Training International Limited (ATIL) is a 50:50 joint venture between AgustaWestland Limited and The Boeing Company.

It was formed in 1998 as a special purpose vehicle to deliver the Attack Helicopter Training Service contract for the UK Army. The contract was financed under a PFI arrangement.

ATIL holds a unique position as a training organisation in being able to provide total synthetic training solutions in the areas of Aircrew, Groundcrew and Maintenance training. A range of equipment is employed to represent the sophisticated systems that reside within an aircraft of the complexity of the Apache.

From weapons to avionics, each device allows students to familiarise themselves with some of the most advanced technology in the world. The equipment is based on full size aircraft systems and provides a high degree of fidelity offering the necessary tactile and visual cues, greatly reducing the need to use operational aircraft for training purposes. Constant investment by the MoD and ATIL in technology insertions has ensured that the training system remains one of the most up to date in the world.

Aviation Training International LimitedColdharbour Business Park, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4JW

Tel: 01935 810300Email: [email protected]: www.atil.co.uk

4 ISSUE 2, 2015 / LZDZ VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 2 2015 5

FOREWORD

PLEASE TURN TO PAGE 12 FOR THE COVER STORY

EXERCISE JOINT WARRIORL ZDZ Magaz ine i s a l so on l ine and can be found a t : w w w. lzdzon l ine.co.uk

Foreword MeettheTeam

EDITORIALEditor: Sqn Ldr Mark RadbourneE: [email protected] T: 01264 381 122–SALESSales Manager: Laurence RoweE: [email protected]: 01536 526 662–DESIGNERDesigner: Chris KellerE: [email protected] T: 01536 526 672–PUBLISHERLance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, Northants NN16 8NLT: 01536 512 624E: [email protected]: www.lancepublishing.co.ukCompany Registration No. 3253372–PRINTERLance Print Ltd, 29/30 Stapledon Road, Orton Southgate, Peterborough PE2 6TDT: 01733 390 564E: [email protected]: www.lanceprint.co.uk–FURTHER INFORMATIONW: www.mod.uk/defenceinternet/

aboutdefence/whatwedo/airsafetyandaviation/jhc

–PHOTOGRAPH CREDIT: Mr C A Harris of Salisbury. Merlin precision landing published in LZDZ Issue 1 2015.–COVER CREDIT© MoD Crown CopyrightMaj Gen Richard Felton CBE

Commander JHC

We continue to hit key milestones in the development of new capabilities and those deployed on Op TORAL

continue to provide support in Kabul; the Puma Mk2 is performing well and this is testament to the dedication and hard work of all those at RAF Benson.

The rest of the Command has also been extremely busy training for contingent operations, this training was put into effect during Op LAYLAND which saw the rapid and very successful deployment of 3 Chinooks and Joint Helicopter Force HQ 3 to India in the wake of the Nepal earthquake. Although the Nepalese declined to use these assets, it did showcase the agility of our forces to react swiftly. Elsewhere, our forces have been working closely with allied nations to improve

Spring and Summer 2015 have seen the JHC continue to deliver successfully against a fast moving and exciting programme.

interoperability; Ex Joint Warrior, embarked exercises in the Baltic and the Combined Joint Operational Access Exercise in the USA were all a huge success. These saw a broad cross-section of the JHC exercising with our allies, providing support to the Lead Commando Group and validating the Air Assault Task Force. The knowledge, skills and experience gained on such exercises will be key to our future success.

I was also impressed to see the amount of adventurous training, sport and development activities across our units, in such a busy environment it is important we all make time to undertake such events.

We now look forward to the second half of 2015 with a busy schedule planned to build on the good work already completed.

I look forward to seeing you in the field and at home. Good luck.

CAPABILITY

The airborne logistics specialists from 13 Air Assault Support Regiment (13 AASR) RLC opened their new

recreation room on Thursday (11th June) in an event attended by Brigadier Nick Borton, commander of 16 Air Assault Brigade.

The new facility will be known as the Red & Black Room, after the regimental colours, and will house pool tables, TVs, games consoles and a wi-fi access. The aim of the project has been to give the soldiers somewhere to relax when they are off-duty.

The regimental Quartermaster, Maj Jo McCord, who helped get the Red and Black Room off the ground said, ‘The facility has been warmly received by all of the soldiers of 13 AASR. Not only does it provide a superb area where they can relax, play pool and organise

Welfare Facilities

EquippedtoEntertain High-readiness Troops

13 AASR, who have just returned from a huge interoperability exercise with the 82nd Airborne Division in North Carolina, are currently preparing to support Exercise Askari Storm in Kenya in the coming months.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Written By: Capt Nick Burdick

events such as games nights and movie nights, it also presents a fantastic location from which to display pictures of all that is good

about service in 13 AASR and 16 Air Asslt Bde. Ultimately the Red & Black Room will be a significant force multiplier in the areas of morale, retention and team cohesion.’

Private Glover, one of the soldiers involved in the planning and delivery of the project said, ‘The pool tables, games and DVDs that we have were all very kindly donated. It’s a great place for people to socialise and it’s perfect to meet new people when they join the regiment.’

New welfare facilities have been opened up for Royal Logistic Corps (RLC) troops based at Merville Barracks in Colchester.

THE JHC DELIVERING JOINT SUCCESS ON OPERATIONS

6 ISSUE 2, 2015 / LZDZ THE JHC DELIVERING JOINT SUCCESS ON OPERATIONS VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 2 2015 7

CAPABILITY

The End of an

EraTuesday 31st March 2015 was an emotional day for 667 (D&T) Sqn AAC.

Today was to be the last ever flight of XZ642, our last mighty Lynx MK7 before it was retired. XZ642 arrived in the Sqn in

2011, after being a servant with 1, 3, 4 and 9 Regt AAC and a number of deployments on Op TELIC, in doing so it accumulated over 7,000 hours in the air.

The Lynx Mk7, built by Agusta Westland has been in service with the AAC for the best part of 40 years and is still the proud record holder of the fastest production helicopter in the world!

XZ642 has been a real workhorse for D&T Squadron since its arrival, it has deployed around the UK and Europe supporting various trials, one of its main tasks has been to trial different Defensive Aid Suites to protect the aircraft from enemy threats.

At 11:55am, XZ642 departed Middle Wallop for its final sortie, crewed by WO2 Rick Boys (who still remains the oldest serving pilot across the tri-services, at least that is what we tell him!), WO2 Steve Robinson and LCpl Bobby Roberts. After two short hours, the Lynx made its last ever landing, where it was to be welcomed back to Hangar 1 by all members of D&T Sqn and Wing Commander Andy Ouellette, the Commanding Officer of the JHC Operational Evaluation Unit who had made the trip from RAF Benson to mark this occasion. Once the aircraft had been put to bed by the Groundcrew, we raised a glass of Aldi’s finest ‘Champagne’ washed down with a cheeky slice of cake, not only to celebrate the service of the Lynx Mk7 with D&T Squadron, but to look to the future with the Squadrons Lynx Mk9A.

Written By: Sgt Anderson

Deploying with four Wildcat Battlefield Reconnaissance Helicopters (BRH) and 44 personnel, 847 NAS established

a forward operating base at RNAS Culdrose. The Squadron were also

Over the course of two weeks in April, 847 Naval Air Squadron conducted their first Wildcat AH1 Deck Landing training from RFA LYME BAY off the Southern coast of England.

847 NAS Wildcat Deck Landing Training

Wildcat on the Waves

joined by a team from the Air Manoeuvre Planning Training and Advisory Team (AMPTAT) from the Joint Helicopter Command including a military

lawyer from the Army Legal Service who provided realistic scenario based training.

Flying out of RNAS Culdrose to RFA LYME BAY, the crews conducted day and night, including the use of night vision goggles (NVG) deck landings. These sorties involved flying out to the ship to conduct the various procedural circuits and landings,

using traditional techniques, however on this occasion the aircrew now benefited from the Wildcat’s advanced camera (EODS Electro Optical System) and navigation equipment. This greatly improved the task of locating and identifying the ship from a distance enabling the aircrew to complete their training, even in difficult weather conditions.

To improve familiarity with the aircraft systems, additional training was devised which involved tracking an ‘enemy force’, played by the local Police and Fire services in and around Bodmin Moor. This was

achieved, both day and night, using the onboard camera to locate and identify targets building upon crew skills previously learnt on deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Over the course of the two week training detachment, 847 NAS flew over 80 hours and conducted over 100 deck landings, qualifying all the aircrew in preparation for the Squadron to assume its Very High Readiness (VHR) role in April this year. As the UK’s first frontline deployable Wildcat BRH squadron, 847 NAS can now deploy on any aviation capable ship in the Royal Navy and operate around the world at short notice.

Lt Cdr Graeme Spence, CO 847 NAS said, “This deployment heralds the beginning

of a new era for 847 NAS and thanks to the supreme efforts by the Squadron personnel, this complicated and vitally important training evolution was completed successfully and ahead of time. The Squadronn is once again now capable of operating from the sea.

The Wildcat BRH marks a significant improvement in 847 Squadron’s ability to operate in the maritime environment. Wildcat BRH provides vastly improved situational awareness to the aircrew through a combination of its sensors, radios and navigation equipment. This in turn will generate capacity in the cockpit allowing aircrew to focus more of their attention on completing the mission successfully.”

Written By: Kerry Randall


CAPABILITY

The new building on the North side of RNAS Yeovilton, boasts superb planning, briefing and office facilities within the Joint Force Operating

Centre; the fleet currently sits at 16 airframes with engineering split between 847 NAS, 1 Regt AAC and the Wildcat Contract Maintainers; resources and manpower are steadily improving and aircraft availability is increasing and finally the team itself has morphed from The Wildcat Fielding Team into 652 (WF) Sqn AAC, playing a key role within 1 Regt AAC. This inclusion will greatly assist not only 652 Sqn’s ability to deliver CTT and CTR but will also allow 1 Regt AAC to prepare itself to become the first AAC Wildcat Regt.

CONVERSION TO ROLEUtilising experience gained on previous AAC aircraft types, the Wildcat Conversion to Role (CTR) syllabus was developed. It would utilise experience of both the Apache and Lynx CTR courses and also bring together the work that had been carried out as part of the Operational Evaluation/Tactical Development of the Wildcat BRH. On completion of the Conversion to Type Training (CTT), pilots are streamed into the Left Hand Seat or the Right Hand Seat. This will have an influence on the focus of their training, which will become very apparent to them during the Battle Drills phase of CTR. This involves training the individual in the roles required from their seat; with the RHS focussing on handling and aircraft management and the LHS focussing on operating the aircraft and its systems. From here they move into Patrol Drills, where they learn to operate as a crew and as part of a patrol, building their skills in more demanding scenarios. Culminating in a demanding EW exercise at RAF Spadeadam and Otterburn Training Area, the Wildcat BRH CTR course will challenge and enthuse any future aviator, ensuring they have the skills to operate the Army’s newest helicopter to the required standard.

TRIALSThe past twelve months has yet again been busy on the Trials and Operational Evaluation front. The aircraft envelope has been further expanded to an almost in service condition and the mission systems have received the much anticipated System Release 8 ensuring capability is close to front line standard. GPS jamming trials were conducted at Sennybridge and the systems performed perfectly. Much work has been carried out on ‘Detect, Recognise and Identify’ profiles with EODS and it has surpassed expectations both day and night. This data has been used to populate Mission Flight Reference Cards, Commanders Aide Memoirs and the Electronic Battle Box to assist Commanders in the asset planning

An Update

Wildcat Transition The point at where the Army Wildcat transition is now (compared to it’s early days three years ago) is a massive achievement.

specific Crew Served Weapons Operators (CSWO) on both GPMG and M3M HMG weapon systems. A week of M3M initial ground training and GPMG revision was then put into practice on Kirkcudbright Ranges in November last year in which over 34,000 rounds were fired. This training allows the Aircrewmen to defend the aircraft whilst also having the ability to ‘reach out’ to the enemy with the M3M.

CTR will now teach and assess the Aircraft Commander to become a Qualified Controller (Own Weapons). This enables him to direct and control the CSWO’s fire onto targets. It is the final step to providing Wildcat with the ‘teeth’ to enter the battlefield, from a crew served weapons point of view. The new Aircrewmen of CTT2 have been introduced to Wildcat through the

to be implemented. With those in place, data integration will be able to continue. The results of that evaluation work will assist in the development of Bowman Data SOPs for the Wildcat force and feed into other programmes such as the Merlin Mk 4 and Project MORPHEUS. Bowman voice has been tested and demonstrated to units outside the ARF, notably 3 Cdo Bde on Ex JOINT WARRIOR and Ex GREEN LIGHTNING where the aircraft showed off its in-built RRB capability and

its ability to be added to nets via over the air distribution of comms info. This will be added into the CTR training for the aircrew and it is being looked at as a possible SOP for when the aircraft need to operate with units who don’t have them in their comms plan.

WILDCAT MISSION SUPPORT SYSTEMA new mission planning system has finally arrived at 652 Sqn in the form of the Wildcat Mission Support System (WMSS). And the good news is… It works! The team have been very busy learning the intricacies of the system which in turn will make the process of mission planning more effective and efficient. The previous ‘mission planner’ was nothing more than an engineering tool to place basic flight data in to the aircraft. WMSS is a full mission planner, networked and allows multi-aircraft missions to be planned seamlessly. This fully digitised aircraft now requires extensive input of information to maximise its capabilities, from moving digital maps with up to date hazards, tactical overlays and routes to the communications presets of all of the airfields/units they are likely to encounter en route. This allows a massive amount of data to be templated and pre-set prior to loading on to the aircraft for the mission. WMSS is the latest piece of state of the art software that facilitates this process along with an equally impressively trained calibre of AAC pilots, aircrewmen and signallers.

The past twelve months have seen some big mile stones achieved within the Wildcat programme. 847 NAS successfully completing CTT, 1 Regt AAC Workshops receiving their first Wildcats and a Mission Planning System that now works. As with any new programme of this scale, the work to progress never stops and the pace remains suitably high. The next big goals will be to complete 847 NAS Conversion to Role which will see them deploy to RAF Spadeadem and Otterburn to conduct their ‘final exercise’ and the start of the flying phase for CTT2. CTT2 will see the start of 1 Regt AAC on its path to becoming the first operational Wildcat Regiment.

process. Crew Served Weapons trials and training was conducted at Kirkcudbright and demonstrated that the Wildcat can pack a punch in the defensive and offensive roles and proved that the integrated nature of the mission systems has vastly improved our capabilities. The most recent trials have seen Wildcat deploy to Spadeadam and Otterburn to conduct Defensive Aids Suite trials and training. One of the big headlines to come out of all these activities is the Wildcat BRH Tactical Operating Manual. The six volumes cover all aspects of operating the Wildcat effectively and efficiently. ISTAR, Direction of Joint Fires, LMMM, Ground ops, Comms and Defensive Aids; they can be found within the Electronic Battle Box.

AIRCREWMENWith CTT 1 now complete, the Aircrewmen have moved on to the CTR phase. They arrive qualified, current and competent as Wildcat

Wildcat Training Centre’s ground school programme. Early summer will see them start their flying phase, complete their final handling tests and join their front seat crews as the course progresses. By the end of the year, they will have completed CTT2 and another group of Aircrewmen will have travelled down what promises to be a well trodden and exciting path.

GROUNDCREWThe start of CTR has brought a fantastic opportunity to adopt a new ‘Wildcat way’ of doing business which takes into consideration experience and knowledge of the Lynx aircraft, Theatres of operation, international collaboration, interoperability and likely future operations. The key headlines from the Groundcrew is everything follows a template; from the equipment and personnel to Orders and SOP’s. Everything has been scrutinised, trialled and agreed by all stake holders. This means that when briefs take place for the Aircrew and Groundcrew, the direction is very clear and promotes confidence in all students. The documentation and direction is nothing new, but has been carefully revised to take into consideration the new airframe requirements. The Groundcrew Reference Cards (GRC) that have been developed by 652 Sqn AAC, have now been fully proven and are in production. This is the way that all CTT and CTR courses will be run for the next few rotations and is leading to a standard training format, delivered by the same personnel, following the authorised SOP’s, which in time will mean there will be no ‘isms’ between squadrons in the future; the Wildcat Force will truly be a collective Force.

COMMUNICATIONSJ6 development work continues in the background of the final stages of the first CTR and the start of CTT 2. A number of small successes have come together and each has been fed into the CTR process. The successful sending and receiving of Bowman data from the aircraft led to the identification of a number of issues which needed solutions from industry (AgustaWestland and General Dynamics UK)


TRAINING

During March this year, 7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery (G Bty) was joined on Exercise Steel Sabre by troops

from the US 2nd Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment (2-319th AFAR).

The exercise, held in wintry conditions at the Otterburn ranges in Northumberland, saw 7 Para RHA live firing their L118 105mm Light Guns directed by Fire Support Teams, who work with infantry to co-ordinate artillery and air support.

G Bty, 7 Para RHA trained with 2-319th AFAR in January at Fort Bragg in North Carolina and this exercise was the reciprocal visit. The two units parent formations, 16 Air Assault Brigade and 82nd Airborne Division respectively, both serve as their armies’ rapid reaction forces and are working towards being able to deploy as a joint force in response to international crises.

Gunner Lawrence Quinn, 23 from Northampton, said: “I visited the US to fire their guns, as well as ours, and saw the variations in the kit. I feel this has broadened my experience and I have seen the differences not only in the equipment but in the training and the lifestyle. “It is good that US soldiers are also here to experience the British way of doing things.”

2-319th AFAR is equipped with the M119A3 Howitzer, a modified version of the British

Colchester’s airborne gunners have joined forces with their American counterparts as they train for their role in the British Army’s rapid reaction force.

British & American Artillery

Train TogetherLight Gun, and the heavier M777A2 155mm howitzer.

2-319th AFAR’s First Lieutenant Gerald Tucke, 28 from Boston, said: “We are looking to find common ground between

our two systems and the way we do things - be it calling for fire, working the control points, right down to the guns - so that an American observer can work British artillery and British observers can use an American artillery line.

“How they call for fire missions is different to how we call fire missions but at the end of the day they are still sending data to a cannon and it is processing it and it is firing. It’s the small things but overall, not very different.

“Most interesting is how often the British military train and how far and wide they go to train, from all the way up here to somewhere in Africa. Overall, it has been an awesome experience, these guys are top notch.”

Ex Steel Sabre saw 1,400 gunners from 17 British regular and Reserve regiments from 1 Artillery Brigade’s train together to prepare for future operations.

Written By: Gareth Palmer


7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery (7 Para RHA) is based at Merville Barracks, Colchester and equipped with L118 105mm Light Guns. Its primary role is to provide a gun battery ready to deploy anywhere in the world at short notice as part of 16 Air Assault Brigade, the British Army’s rapid reaction force.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Commando Helicopter Force

Support the Ten Tors Expedition

TWO Sea King Mk4 helicopters from 848 Naval Air Squadron, based in RNAS Yeovilton, with their highly trained pilots,

aircrewmen and engineers, and with onboard medical teams, provided 1 Artillery Brigade and Headquarters South West with

invaluable assets that played a vital role in the success of the Ten Tors Expedition 2015.

The annual Ten Tors Expedition is one of the biggest multi agency, tri service, civil contingency exercises in Britain and the Commando Helicopter

Force is ideally suited to provide aviation support due to the nature of the Ten Tors tasking, which requires a helicopter and crew that can operate effectively in the Support

Helicopter role and the Search and Rescue role, by both day and night, in all weather conditions.

From a military exercise perspective, Ten Tors provides the Armed Forces with a perfect opportunity to practice life-saving civil contingency responsibilities enabling the military to be ready to assist when they are called upon during a national emergency.

848 NAS provided aviation support with enablement of trooping, Immediate Response Tasking (IRT) for casualty evacuation, winching and carried out recces for the medical teams and cadet familiarisation flights. A highlight for the crews being the opportunity to

meet the Blue Peter presenters who were taking part in the Ten Tors challenge.

Flt Lt Becky Rowlands, 848 NAS Detachment Commander said, “This was another successful Ten Tors. Saturday turned into a beautiful day from both a ground and air point of view which helped in reducing the numbers of casualties that needed evacuation. The event provided a great opportunity to practice many flying disciplines like underslung loads and winching and a lot of the tasking was reactionary, especially the patient pick ups. From a personal point of view, it was inspiring to see the participants dotted across the Moor, their determination and motivation obvious as they trudged through wet terrain and up and down the Tors.”

The aircrew were supported by a team of engineers and the Commando Mobile Air Operations Team (MAOT) who provided communications, helicopter and passenger handling support.

With the infamous Dartmoor weather being kind over the course of the weekend, the two Sea King crews provided over 38 hours of ‘Very High Readiness’ for IRT and CASEVAC-ed seven patients back to medical facilities at Okehampton Camp.

This year was the final time that the venerable Sea King Mk4 will support Ten Tors as it is due to go out of service in March 2016. Support to the expedition will be handed over to 848’s sister squadron, 846 NAS with their Merlin Mk3s.

For Lt Cdr Bob Bond of 848 NAS, it was a particularly poignant weekend as he recalled taking part in the Ten Tors challenge as a young Air Cadet and watching the Sea Kings flying over Dartmoor.

Lt Cdr Bond said, “20 years ago I did Ten Tors for a number of years and seeing the Sea Kings flying on Dartmoor gave me the inspiration to try and become a pilot, which I did, and now I’m here supporting the event.”

848 NAS and the Sea King were awarded a Gold Medal for over 20 years of support to Ten Tors. The citation read,

‘After 30 years of delivering

Commando Aviation, and over 20 years supporting Ten Tors, the Sea King Mk4 will be retired in March 2016. This has been the last year that the Sea King has supported the event and its crews and support staff have been integral to ensuring a safe and successful Ten Tors.

The Ten Tors Organisation would like to present 848 NAS and the Sea Kings a Gold Medal award in recognition of the support and commitment to Ten Tors.’

Flt Lt Rowlands added, “It is sad that this was the last time that the Sea King will support the event but I know the event holds many fond memories for Junglies and ex-Junglies alike. Next year will see the event supported by the Sea King’s replacement, the Merlin Mk3.”


TRAINING

16 Air Assault Brigade’s Air Assault Task Force - made up of the 2 PARA Battlegroup and a Joint Helicopter Force led by 3 Regiment Army Air

Corps – was tested on Exercise JOINT WARRIOR, the largest annual military exercise in Europe. The AATF is held at high-readiness ready to deploy anywhere in the world to conduct the full range of military operations from non-combatant evacuation operations to warfighting.

The exercise placed the troops on a mission to support an ally tackling an insurgency backed by a hostile neighbour. After receiving its activation order, the 1,600-strong AATF converged on the Joint Air Mounting Centre (JAMC) in South Cerney, Gloucestershire, the departure point for troops heading off on operations. Once processed, the troops and equipment moved to MoD St Athan in south Wales to plan a mission to capture Keevil Airfield, 100 miles away on Salisbury Plain.

Once that objective was seized in a helicopter assault, the soldiers then reset themselves to plan and conduct further missions. The JHF’s Apache attack helicopters flew back into Wales to strike simulated enemy positions at Pembrey Sands and then the

Ex Joint Warrior

Tests Our Ability to React 16 Air Assault Brigade and other elements of the Joint Helicopter Command have shown their ability to rapidly deploy to the right place at the right time and carry out a series of complex missions in a range of environments.

2 PARA BG parachuted on to the STANTA Ranges in Norfolk to assault a village.

Brigadier Nick Borton DSO MBE, Commander of 16 Air Assault Brigade, said: “Joint Warrior provided an excellent opportunity for 16 Air Assault Brigade to work alongside the Royal Navy and RAF in its role as the British Army’s very high-readiness formation for contingency operations. This realistic and well-resourced training reflects the type of operations that the brigade could be called on to do, both in terms of the tactical challenges and their expeditionary nature. The missions that we had to achieve

in a very short space of time are a powerful demonstration of the unique flexibility, reach and agility of airborne and air assault troops.”

The 2 PARA BG is built around the airborne infantry of Colchester-based 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment bolstered by artillery, engineers, medics, signallers and logisticians. The Joint Helicopter Force includes Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force helicopters providing transport, attack and reconnaissance support to troops on the ground, and is currently commanded by 3 Regiment Army Air Corps, based at Wattisham Flying Station in Suffolk.

Exercise Joint Warrior involved 13,000 military personnel from 14 countries, more than 55 warships and 70 aircraft and helicopters. Taking place twice a year, the training aims to test how the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force work together and with allied forces.

Ex Shamrock Mayne5 Regiment AAC were given an opportunity to practise their Basic Close Combat Skills (BCCS) and compete with other units based in Northern Ireland.

Ex SHAMROCK MAYNE organised by 1 SCOTS consisted of a number of stands akin to Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL. The variety of soldiers

and their roles in 5 Regiment saw a team of groundcrew, signallers, REME technicians and RIGC Geo Engineers train together for a number of months leading up to the competition. Skill set and experience levels varied, however through training received

and the competition all members of the team were tested.

After gaining top marks for kits checks and orders, the team started very well and managed to catch the ROYAL IRISH team in short order. However, it

wasn’t long before contact drills were being tested with Airtpr MacDonald calling “Enemy pre seen” and the section smoothly moved into a defensive posture. Despite putting in an excellent account for themselves the ‘local police’ guide unfortunately became an early casualty, leading to an emotional CASEVAC for all. The ground crew within the section indentified several potential Helicopter Landing (HLS) Sites but were waved off; another 4km of uphill effort later, and a suitable HLS was confirmed.

The attached Royal Engineers of the RIGC Geo Troop showed excellent marksmanship on a particularly challenging Live Firing Stand with Spr Greenhalgh dropping targets and Airtpr Cooke delivering fire control orders to conserve ammunition. All go in the fictional AO the enemy had been successfully repelled; immediately after the team were instructed to deal an IED. Moving into a 4Cs operation the section began taking sporadic fire from an increasingly adventurous enemy again. The section reacted quickly and a point of fire was established, LCpl Byrne controlling Delta fire team on a daring hill sprint and fire team attack combination which took the enemy completely by surprise.

A lengthy TAB concluded the event as we arrived at the final objective where we delivered a final debrief and kit check, again achieving top marks on both. Constant praise was given and ‘best one of the day’ was a recurring theme. The patrol team were awarded the Silver standard, with only one team from the ROYAL IRISH achieving Gold. Determination, aggression and pure grit propelled the team to a respectably high standard; we will have our sights clearly set on Gold next year.

Written By: Lt Mike Askey


TRAINING

Exercise Pegasus Gaul has seen 23 Parachute Engineer Regiment training with the US Army’s 37th Brigade Engineer Battalion and

173rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion. The soldiers familiarised themselves with each other’s equipment and techniques, before working together to build a temporary landing strip at Rock Barracks in Woodbridge.

The week-long training is part of improving the ability of 16 Air Assault Brigade and the US Army’s 82nd Airborne Division, which both serve as their respective armies’ rapid reaction forces, to deploy as a joint force in response to international crises.

23 Para Engr Regt’s Major Dave Stead said: “The US is among our closest allies and learning to work together with their airborne engineers is a key objective for the Regiment. The focus of this exercise is developing our common skills of constructing semi-improved surfaces for transport aircraft to operate from. There are three elements to that – training to use each other’s equipment; understanding the different criteria we work to and merging them so a US aircraft could fly from a UK-built airstrip and vice versa; and then building trust and understanding between us by getting out and doing the job together.

“It’s going really well. Under close supervision, US operators are finding it remarkably easy to use our equipment and we’re sharing experiences and learning from each other.”


Airfield construction is a key skill for the rapid reaction role, enabling further troops and equipment to be brought in to develop a force’s

capabilities. Building a landing strip from scratch involves clearing vegetation and topsoil away with diggers and bulldozers; levelling it with a grader to stringent length,

width and gradient standards to enable aircraft to take off and land; and then compacting it with a roller.

Sapper Martin Bell, 24 from Pontyclun in South Wales, said: “To do a full runway is a long job, but I like having a big task to get on with. We cleared and prepared a full landing strip in Kenya last year and it’s rewarding to see a Hercules land and know that you made that

British and American airborne engineers have worked together to develop their key skills of building and repairing runways.

British and American Sappers

Building Together

happen. It’s been a good experience to work alongside the Americans who really are the same soldiers as us, just wearing a different uniform.”

23 Para Engr Regt and 37 BEB have already worked together this year on the Combined Joint Operational Exercise at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. The two-month long exercise culminated in a simulated mission in which 1,900 British and American troops and their equipment

parachuted into a troubled region to work side-by-side to restore stability.

37 BEB’s Sergeant First Class Patrick Stundahl, 36 from Mississipi, said: “We’ve bonded together really well across the two exercises. CJOAX was about the British coming over to operate on our terms, and this is us working with British equipment and procedures. It’s all about building a relationship now so that if we go on operations together we already know all about each other.”

PICTURED: Airtpr Cooke controls

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RIGHT: LCpl Wright crests a sand dune to close

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TRAINING

The exercise has been aimed at developing the ability of troops from 16 Air Assault Brigade to work within the US Army’s 82nd

Airborne Division. Both formations serve as their respective armies’ rapid reaction forces. The 82nd Airborne Division also provides backbone of the US military’s Global Response Force, a crisis response task force that 16

CJOAXAmerican Airborne Exercise Leads

the Way for Practical InteroperabilityDuring April and May this year, soldiers from both the USA and UK’s very

high-readiness forces have been training together at Fort Bragg, North Carolina as part of the Combined Joint Operational Access Exercise (CJOAX).

Air Assault Brigade could be called upon to support in the future. The exercise highlighted how the UK’s VHR brigade could support a deployment of that force with it’s unique capabilities and experience.

Some 900 troops from the 3 PARA Battlegroup and the RAF worked alongside soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team to learn about each

with American airborne forces. The relationship we are building on this exercise is nothing new, we are simply dusting off the history books and writing a new chapter.”

The exercise saw British soldiers earn US Army parachute wings by jumping with the American T-11 parachute from a United States Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft. American soldiers also earned their British wings the same way but this time jumping from an RAF Hercules that supported the exercise.

Lieutenant Colonel Mike Shervington, the 3 PARA BG’s Commanding Officer, said: “The world is an uncertain and

menacing place and if we can create an allied force comparable to 70 years ago it offers our political leaders a strong tool to use.

“Across its history, 3 PARA has done four combat jumps, of which three were in partnership


other’s operating procedures and equipment before taking part in a final exercise. The training culminated in a simulated mission in which 2,100 troops, including the whole British Battlegroup, and their equipment parachuted into a troubled region to work side-by-side to restore stability.


TRAINING

This is only the second course of its type to have been completed at the Defence Helicopter Flying School (DHFS) based at RAF Shawbury in

Shropshire. Established in 1997, DHFS offers a training facility which is unique within the world of Defence Helicopter Training, especially so with the recent addition of specific Joint Service Training of Aircrewmen for the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and the Army in addition to the already established training for the Royal Air Force.

The course content within the available Modules was specifically sculptured by the AAC for two L/CPLs to enable them to achieve a standard where they could be awarded their Aircrewman Brevet and be posted to 651 Sqn AAC, to fill a specialised role on the D4K Islander aircraft.

Let’s look at the JAC is finer detail. The course comprises of a Ground School (GS) Phase

Joint Aircrewman CourseBorn out of a requirement to provide a more bespoke course to fulfil the Single Service requirement for specific helicopter platforms and roles, the new JAC evolved.

and a Flying Phase. The Ground School Phase is sub-divided into four further

phases or elements and is ten weeks long if you are required to complete all four phases. As mentioned earlier Single Service requirements will dictate which phases are necessary.

GROUND SCHOOL PHASE ONEThis lasts two weeks, is based at DHFS and is designed to align the students from the RN, RM and AAC to the input standard for Phase Two. During this phase they do a maths reinforcement package to ensure a level of ability that aids comprehension of forthcoming subject matter. They also cover all of the commonly used phrases, abbreviations and principles that are assumed as a given within the learning techniques used in the next phase and onwards through their training

PHASE TWOThis lasts four weeks, again based at DHFS. This is completed alongside the student

pilots and is based on a single engine helicopter where the following systems are learnt: Airframe Construction, Electrics, Engines, Transmissions, Fuel and Hydraulic Systems, Radios, Avionics and Navigation Instruments, Main and Tail Rotor Systems, to name a few from a long list! Needless to say, lots to learn and yes, there is an exam at the end!

PHASE THREEThis phase lasts two weeks and is titled, Rotary Wing Lead In (RWLI). Again this is based at DHFS and is specific to certain roles. It covers a number of crewman specific associated subjects and role related knowledge such as aircraft Loading and Restraint, Dangerous Goods, revision of helicopter technical systems, support elements to helicopter operations, radio voice procedures and lectures

Engine Rotary Wing (MERW) course, which is only completed by RN Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) and RAF crews.

So now you have a feel for the elements of the Ground Phase and Flying Phase Modules you can understand that some of these were not absolutely necessary for L/Cpl’s Jay Blay and Will Gilligan. Because of their intended posting to 651 Sqn AAC they were only required to completed Phase 2 and half of Phase 3 of the Ground School and Flying Modules One and Two before the award to their Aircrewmans’ Brevet.

Their Graduation Ceremony took place at DHFS on 14th May 2015. They were awarded their Brevet by Brigadier Cash, Dep Cmdr Joint Helicopter Command (Desig). Before the ceremony their families were invited to visit the training facilities and experience a familiarisation flight in a Griffin Helicopter.

When asked, what did you enjoy most about the course? L/Cpl Will Gilligan said: “I preferred the flying elements. The Ground School was hard work but I understood that I had to learn the subjects first.”

L/Cpl Jay Blays’ comments were: “Overall the most overriding feeling was of a great sense of achievement to be one of the first few through this new course. The most challenging part for me was getting the ‘old grey matter working’ so that I learned the checks and procedures!”

on Joint Service formations, basing and equipment. The course includes theoretical and practical exercises of Internal loading of cargo and external carriage of cargo and underslung equipment procedures and limitations. Also included are Weight and Balance mathematical calculations to ensure the correct trim of the aircraft and that it conforms to safety requirements. In order to ensure this, they are taught how to calculate floor loading pressures and contact areas within the aircraft floor.

*Certain roles such as RN (Maritime Role) and AAC only have to complete the first week of this phase and this therefore cuts out most of the practical lessons.

PHASE FOURThe final Ground School Phase lasts two weeks and is only for those who need to complete the Ground School specific to the Griffin Helicopter, which has two engines and hence there are some significant differences in its systems and how they inter-link.

THE FLYING PHASEConsists of four Modules with a fifth (Crew Served Weapons) in the development process. All four modules currently last a total of 30 weeks. The modules are as follows…

MODULE ONE: BASIC SKILLS12 weeks in duration, is common to most roles and includes; Airmanship, Voice Marshalling, Underslung Load operations, Confined

Areas, landing on Sloping Ground, an introduction to Navigation techniques, Night Flying including the use of Night Vision Devices (NVDs) and an introduction to Instrument and Tactical Flying.

MODULE TWO: NAVIGATIONSeven weeks in duration and is a mix of ground training, simulators and practical. The basic element is completed on the Squirrel Helicopter with further reinforcement of skills learnt completed within the framework of other modules.

MODULE THREE: MOUNTAINS AND MARITIME(Including Search and Rescue techniques using the aircraft rescue winch). This consists of an intensive introduction to operating over water and in the mountain environment. During the five week course, the student learns how to

operate as both the winchman and the winch operator. A good portion of the learning takes advantage of the synthetic training facilities using a purpose built winching simulator.

The final discipline they encounter is mountain flying. They experience this firstly in the cabin where they are required to provide clearances from terrain as the aircraft flies around valley floors and bowl shaped areas within the higher terrain. Working together with the pilot they select and brief suitable landing sites, whilst understanding the various weather effects that influence flying that are unique to the mountain environment. Finally, they are then placed into the front of the helicopter where they carry out the role of a co-pilot; assisting the pilot with navigation.

MODULE FOUR: TACTICAL AND ADVANCED TECHNIQUESCurrently, Module 4 is completed as part of the Multi

Written By: Flt Lt Gary Rogan


The last two years have seen teams deploy on operations in Afghanistan, the Philippines and Sierra Leone, as well as exercises in Norway,

Albania and the Middle East. This is in addition to the Very High Readiness standing commitments. It was a welcome ‘break’ then to have a two week period of local training on the indomitable Dartmoor training area.

The aim of Exercise NEPTUNES BEARD was sharpening the tactical field skills required to operate as part of the covert recce force that deploy in advance of the main force, inserting by parachute, small boats or other means. The job of the MAOT recce teams is to identify suitable helicopter landing zones for the specific mission,

Life on Commando Mobile Air Operations Teams (MAOT) is always busy, but rarely dull, with a constant stream of tasks supporting Joint Helicopter Command (JHC) detachments around the world.

Yeovilton, who did an excellent job in extremely challenging weather and terrain. Always calm and professional on the air to ground radio, despite the conditions, as Marine Gallagher observed (whilst being lashed by horizontal hail), “It sounds nice and warm in that cockpit!”

The final phase of the exercise had teams inserting by helicopter to the south moor, followed by a night yomp into hidden Observation Posts covering locations where hostages where being held. Their mission was to provide intelligence on the situation and in particular identify potential Helicopter Landing Sites (HLS) and rope-down points near the target buildings, to enable a simulated hostage rescue operation. With enemy forces reinforcing the area, the teams had to conduct a covert extraction to an emergency pick-up point, however thick fog resulted in no helicopter so a further yomp was required to the next RV for a road extraction.

With a mix of weather, demanding terrain, realistic scenario and excellent aviation support, this proved to be an outstanding period to consolidate the field skills that will be essential the next time the Cdo MAOT are called into action. Deployments to Slovenia, the USA ,Western Med and Arctic over the next six months will further refine this unique capability within UK defence.

rolling patrols within the rugged high moor, moving from Okehampton to Wilsworthy and finally the Ringmoor area. This was an excellent vehicle for not only honing fieldcraft, but developing the junior members of the troop in leadership skills, from planning and briefing complex tasks to night navigation during a period of nil moonlight.

The exercise was supported by both Sea King and Merlin aircraft based at RNAS

which could range from extraction of UK personnel from a crisis area, to air assault on an enemy location. This information is sent back to the task force using satellite comms to inform the aviation assault plan. The teams will then be directed to set up landing aides, only visible

under Night Vision Goggles used by the aircrew, and provide terminal guidance to the helicopters on their clandestine infiltration.

Set within the context of a Lead Commando Group (LCG) intervention in a foreign state, Exercise NEPTUNES BEARD consisted of

Ex NeptunesBeard Commando

MAOT on Dartmoor

Operating out of Rollestone Camp; two Merlin Mk3 helicopters, four trainee crews and a support staff of over 40 personnel, supported 3 Commando Brigade and other

ExMerlinVortexThe final phase of the Merlin Conversion Course took place last week on Salisbury Plain for eight Commando Helicopter Force students, as they deployed on Exercise Merlin Vortex.

Land Force elements in various operational taskings in addition to course based tactical scenarios to test the students flying skills.

Exercise Merlin Vortex is the culmination of the students flying training which tests their tactical flying abilities. The students deployed to a semi austere field environment, away from their Main Operating Base in RAF Benson.

This course, No. 23 has two ab-initio students, as well as six Sea King convertees, but all the students completed the same demanding flying training.


On Wednesday 24 June, Brigadier Neil Sexton, Dep Commander JHC, handed over the reins to Brig Andrew Cash.

Brigadier Sexton now moves onto study at the Royal College of Defence Studies. Brigadier Cash joins the JHC on promotion following his

time as Regimental Colonel AAC.

Farewell to…

Brig Sexton

This type of training puts the students under pressure in a more challenging environment, similar to what they may face on operations, and provides more realistic training for both the Merlin OCF students and the tasking units.

With an impressive 100% availability, the Merlin crews flew approximately 15 hours a day in direct support of tasking from Land Forces.

One of the taskings for the students was load lifting out of Bickleigh Barracks, Plymouth, in support of 42 Cdo RM, in order for 20 Royal Marine troops to complete their Landing Point Commander qualification.

Lt Cdr John Wilson, Officer Commanding Merlin OCF, said, “We are here to operate with and support troops, so training with live troops is vital for the student pilots and aircrewmen. Deploying to field exercises like Merlin Vortex is ideal for us to train and to provide training for the units we support.”

The next step for the Merlin students will be moving to their front line Squadron, for most this will be 845 Naval Air Squadron, where they will undergo further front line training to achieve their Certificate of Competency and accredited as Aircraft Commanders.

Lt Pete Crease, Merlin Student said, “The Merlin training has been a great challenge and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m very much looking forward to deploying on Exercise Black Alligator, in the USA, in the summer to learn more advanced flying techniques, such as dust landings, it will also be the first time I have flown abroad.”

The Merlin Operational Conversion Force will relocate to RNAS Yeovilton in July to rejoin 846 NAS who moved earlier in the year.

TRAINING


TRAINING

JOINT WARRIOR represents the very best opportunity for CHF to conduct

targeted and realistic training for amphibious operations – the role for which the Force was originally conceived.

JOINT WARRIOR this year was, however, more than just an annual amphibious exercise for the Sea King Mk4 community. It was the final time that the venerable Sea King Mk4 would take part in JOINT WARRIOR as it is due to go out of

multi-layered and meticulously-planned scenario commenced. In short-order, the Air Group was given initiating orders to start planning the main amphibious assault to take place at the end of the exercise. Whilst half the crews carefully planned the mission, the other half conducted ‘WADER’ drills - helicopter embarkation training - for the benefit of the ground troops, many of whom were new to the environment.

As the Amphibious Task Group reached the main area of operations on the 19th April, the missions began in earnest. 845 NAS and 18 Sqn RAF began to insert Royal Marines ashore; either into covert landing sites for a subsequent ground attack or

845 NAS on Exercise Joint Warrior 151

In April this year a detachment of 4 Sea King Mk4s and 83 personnel from 845 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) of the Commando Helicopter Force

(CHF) embarked in HMS OCEAN for Exercise JOINT WARRIOR 151.

but also very enjoyable. We did everything from deck landings on small foreign vessels to tactical low-level night navigation with troops on board. The coastal landscape of northern Scotland was breath-taking and made the flying all the more enjoyable.”

Concurrent to the intensive and rapidly-developing exercise scenario, the detachment shouldered the responsibility for an array of tasking which helped facilitate the smooth running of the wider exercise. Soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen from all partaking nations were diligently moved between the Ships, landing sites, and Forward Operations Bases, all of which were kept supplied with vital stores throughout. The Junglies, along with SAR specialists 771 NAS, also provided the Amphibious Task Force with 24/7 SAR cover and maintain a compassionate and casualty evacuation

crew and aircraft for any personnel requiring immediate transport to the mainland.

JOINT WARRIOR 2015 saw another successful embarkation for the ‘Junglies,’ who met the task with their usual professionalism and gusto. The lessons identified from previous embarkations had been well assimilated, whilst the experience provided a number of further lessons for fine-tuning future exercises and operations. The junior pilots and aircrewman, who will be the mainstay of CHF for the next generation, were able to expand and consolidate their maritime skill-set which will stand the ‘Junglies’ in good stead in their capacity as the corner-stone of the UK’s amphibious aviation capability.

straight into an assault on the objective. The missions were a resounding success and all scenario objectives and targets were achieved. 845 NAS inserted over 120 Royal, Dutch and Belgian Marines into various landing sites all over the Galloway peninsula. It proved to be excellent training for aircrew, ground troops and engineers as well as HQ and planning staff.

The final two pilots to graduate from the training pipeline onto the Sea King Mk4 were both embarked as part of the 845’s flying crews. Lt Tom Lofthouse said, “My first detachment on the front-line couldn’t have been better. The range of flying that we conducted was demanding

service in March 2016. The responsibility of providing the specialist airborne insertion and tactical transport to the Royal Marines is being handed over to 845’s sister squadron, 846 NAS with their Merlin Mk3s. The Merlin will give the ‘Junglies’ an improved load lifting and range capability which will mean they can deliver more Royal Marines, with more equipment, further inland.

HMS OCEAN sailed from Plymouth on 7th April; onboard were four Sea Kings Mk4s and a SAR Sea King Mk5 from 771 NAS and they were joined by two Chinooks and two Apaches just before sunset.

The transit from Plymouth to the operating areas allowed the detachment a four day period to bed-in to ship life, whilst also establishing routines and consolidating the various skills that contribute towards being proficient in the maritime environment – including deck landing by day and night (conventionally and with night vision devices), winching, emergency approaches, ship-controlled approaches and vertical replenishment-at-sea.

The period also saw an opportunity to share some of the ‘Junglie’ expertise in the planning and execution of amphibious ops with aviation counterparts from the other Services, with 18 Sqn RAF providing a detachment of two Chinooks and 656 Sqn Army Air Corps providing a detachment of two Apaches which later surged to three.

In addition to flying crews and engineers, CHF also made a vital contribution to the amphibious planning cell by providing most of the key personalities to the Amphibious Task Force Air Group Head-Quarters (ATF AG HQ) including the 845 Commanding Officer, Operations Officer, Training Officer, Air Engineering Officer and Logistics Officer.

With the Ship entering the exercise areas off the north coast of Scotland, the

Written By: By Lt Simon Jones

Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton was granted the Freedom of Yeovil in 1962 and with this great honour the right to parade. The Freedom of the Borough is

an ancient privilege which dates from the time when standing armies, abroad the countryside, were often feared by townsfolk. To be given the right to enter a town and parade in this way was considered a sign of great trust.

The right of the Freedom of the Borough of Yeovil has been exercised by HMS HERON, on many occasions, most recently in 2010, showing the close links between the Air Station and the Town that have built up over the years.

On the 3rd June 2015 the people of Yeovil saw service men and women of HMS HERON - better known as RNAS Yeovilton - parade once more through the town centre of Yeovil. Soldiers from 1 Regiment

Army Air Corps, who relocated to RNAS Yeovilton in 2014, joined their RN and RM colleagues in the parade for the first time.

Celebrating the 75th anniversary of HMS HERON, the march was led by the Commanding Officer, Commodore Jock Alexander OBE Royal Navy. He said: “The Service men and women of HMS HERON will be exercising their Freedom of the

Borough of Yeovil as they march through the streets of the town ‘with bands playing, colours flying and bayonets fixed’.”

“I am very proud of the close bonds we have formed with the people of Yeovil over the years. Many of my people have made their homes in Yeovil and the local area. Wherever they are in the world, the men and women of RNAS Yeovilton are proud


PEOPLE

With several hundred spectators watching, a battery of six guns from Colchester-based 7th

Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery (7 PARA RHA) fired a 21-gun salute in Castle Park at noon on 13th June.

Lord Petre, the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, was the Inspecting Officer as the Queen’s representative in the county and The Band of The Queen’s Division performed. The band gave both a formal marching display before the Royal Salute and an informal performance at the park’s bandstand.

Major Roy Taylor, Battery Commander of F (Sphinx) Parachute Battery, said: “This is the fourth time my Battery has had the honour of firing the Royal Salute in Colchester. It is a great honour and an opportunity to show the Battery

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Airborne Gunners Fire Royal Salute in Colchester

Airborne gunners have fired a Royal Salute in Colchester to mark The Queen’s Official Birthday.

in all its finery to the public. We’ve been rehearsing through the week and the men enjoyed performing for an appreciative crowd who joined us to send their congratulations to the Queen.”

The guns fired were 105 mm Light Guns, the same type used by 7 PARA RHA for its operational role in the Air Assault Task Force, which is ready to deploy anywhere in the world at short notice for operations ranging from disaster relief to war fighting.

The guns will again be on public display at the 16 Air Assault Brigade and Colchester Garrison Show on Saturday July 4th.

The show demonstrates the equipment and skills of 16 Air Assault Brigade, the British Army’s rapid reaction force, and culminates in a combat demonstration by 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment.

Running alongside the Show will be the PARAS’ 10 endurance challenge and Active Essex, the County Sports Partnership for Essex, will be hosting a schools’ and families’ QuadKids athletics competition and the opportunity to try a number of different sports.


After a meeting with the Commanding Officer of 846 NAS, Lt Col Derek Stafford, a tour of the

new building and the opportunity to take a look around the Merlin

US Exchange Pilot Visit to 846 Naval Air SquadronWritten By: Kerry Randall, CHF PRO

Written By: Kerry Randall, CHF PRO

Retired United States Army Major, Robert Curtis, returned to RNAS Yeovilton to visit 846 Naval Air Squadron where he served as a US exchange pilot from 1983 to 1985.

Mk3 aircraft, Robert also enjoyed a tour of 847 NAS and the new Wildcat AH1.

Robert said, “I thoroughly enjoyed my time with 846 Squadron and loved flying the Sea King, it will be sad to see her retired. The new aircraft operated by CHF are a marked change, most definitely aircraft for the computer generation!”

While serving with 846 NAS, Robert had combat assault training in Egypt, the Netherlands, numerous locations throughout the United Kingdom and extreme cold weather training in Norway. With over 5,000 hours – “mishap free” as he says

Bands Playing, Colours Flying and Bayonets Fixed as Soldiers and Sailors Parade Through Yeovil

The Freedom of the Borough of Yeovil was exercised as 500 Sailors, Royal Marines and Soldiers paraded through the Town of Yeovil in Somerset.

to have the support of the local community and an event like the Freedom Parade gives us the opportunity to show our thanks.”

The Mayor of Yeovil Cllr Mike Lock said; “I am pleased and honoured” that the Commanding Officer of HMS Heron, Commodore Jock Alexander had chosen today to commemorate the two anniversaries.Both days are key dates in our nation’s history and they remind us of our freedom following the end of the Second World War.”

“The relationship between the town and the air station is stronger than ever and, as chairman of Yeovil Town Council, I will continue the practice of my predecessors of keeping in regular contact with the Commanding Officer and offering my full support and assistance to the air station in whatever way I can.”

The parade is one of a number of events commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the establishment of RNAS Yeovilton, in June 1940, which will be the theme of this year’s International Air Day, to be held on Saturday 11th July.

in his recently released book ‘Surprised at Being Alive’ - on a wide range of aircraft including the Sea King Mk4, Robert served with the US Army, the US Army National Guard, the US Marine Corps and the

Royal Navy. Robert also has 980 hours of combat flight time in Vietnam as the Aircraft Commander of a CH-47C.

Robert’s book tells of his thrilling helicopter exploits with four Armed Services, including the Royal Navy, bringing together stories and memoirs from over 5000 flying hours and from many different countries, the book brings to life the dangers and thrills of life as a helicopter pilot.

After presenting a copy of his book to 846 NAS, Robert said. “It has been great to visit 846 and 847 Naval Air Squadron to see the new Merlin and Wildcat aircraft, and to hear the enthusiasm of the pilots for these aircraft is wonderful.”


PEOPLE

On Saturday 9th May the Commando Helicopter Force took part in a flypast to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Liberation of Guernsey.

Guernsey Liberation Day Celebrations

A Sea King Mk4 of 848 Naval Air Squadron and a Merlin Mk3 of 846 Naval Air Squadron took to the skies escorting the motor cavalcade into Guernsey’s

capital, St Peter Port, to help families, friends and visitors to Guernsey once again celebrate that most priceless commodity of all – freedom.

Thousands of Islanders turned out on the streets of Guernsey to celebrate the 70th anniversary of its Liberation from Hitler’s occupying forces on Wednesday 9th May 1945. The weekends events included an outdoor church service with accompanying military parade, a visit from Her Royal Highness the Countess of Wessex and a huge street party and market in St Peter Port.

CHF last supported the Liberation celebrations for the 65th anniversary and this visit was also a particularly significant event for the Force. It displayed the new and old aircraft operating together in formation during the Force transition from the Sea King to the Merlin.

During the visit the Sea King also spent a day tasking with the Guernsey and Alderney Royal National Lifeboat Institue, providing valuable training for all parties in practising boat and hi-line transfers.

Lt Tom Nason of 848 NAS said “The training with the Guernsey and Alderney Lifeboat service was hugely beneficial for both the lifeboat crew and indeed ourselves. To then be able to participate in the flypast to help the thousands of Islanders celebrate Guernsey’s Liberation was an absolute privilege; my parents live on the island and were spectating which made the day even more special.”

Written By: Lt Tom Lofthouse

During his visit he took some time to meet 7 Flt AAC who are based in Brunei to provide a rotary lift capability

The Secretary of State for Defence, Michael Fallon MP, visited Brunei Garrison.

Secretary of State for Defence

Visits Bruneito the British Forces stationed there. Mr Fallon was shown around the Bell 212 Helicopter whilst the crew talked him through the capabilities of the aircraft.

The unit, formerly named 23 Engineer Regiment (Air Assault), was

established in 2003 but can trace its roots back to the beginnings of airborne operations during the Second World War. In May 1942, 9 (Airborne) Field Company RE – now part of 23 Para Engr Regt as 9 Parachute Squadron RE - was stood up to provide engineer support for the newly formed 1st Airlanding Brigade, serving in Italy and at Arnhem. The Regiment currently serves within 16 Air Assault Brigade, the British Army’s rapid reaction force.

Lieutenant Colonel John Clark MBE, Commanding Officer of 23 Para Engr Regt, said: “Our new name reflects the proud airborne heritage of our three Parachute Squadrons and is fundamental to consolidating the Regiment’s identity and ingraining the right ethos within our soldiers. It may seem like a simple change, but ask any member of the Regiment and you will be left in no doubt that the addition of ‘Parachute’ to the name is an honour to be proud of.

“The role and composition of the Regiment will remain unchanged, with

our sappers trained and equipped to deploy by parachute and helicopter to provide close support combat engineering to 16 Air Assault Brigade, the British Army’s rapid reaction force.”

In June a parade will be held at Rock Barracks in Woodbridge, which has been home to the Regiment since 2006, to formally mark the name change.

Lt Col Clark said: “We look forward to celebrating the name change when the Regiment reconvenes after a busy spring which has seen our sappers taking part in major airborne exercises in the USA and UK. It will also be an occasion to

mark the achievements of 23 Engineer Regiment (Air Assault) in Iraq and Afghanistan, which we take forward as part of our new identity.”

The Regiment has three squadrons, of which two are Woodbridge based Regulars and one Reserve. 51 Parachute Squadron has recently returned from a seven-week-long exercise at Fort Bragg in North Carolina to build interoperability with their counterparts in the US Army; while 9 Para Sqn participated in Exercise Joint Warrior, which confirmed their readiness to serve with the Air Assault Task Force. Both exercises are supported by sappers from 299 Parachute Squadron Royal Engineers, the Regiment’s Army Reserve squadron, which has detachments in Wakefield, Hull and Gateshead.

New Name for Suffolk’s Airborne Engineers

Suffolk’s airborne engineers are to be renamed 23 Parachute Engineer Regiment in recognition of their history and current role within the British Army’s Airborne Forces.



Both Regular and Reserve Soldiers based in Suffolk put on a military show for civilians at the annual agricultural

show held at Trinity Park in Ipswich.The military displays included a role

demonstration by a Wattisham-based Apache attack helicopter, divers from Woodbridge-based 23 Parachute Engineer Regiment playing underwater noughts-and crosses and Reservist ground crew from Bury St Edmunds-based 6 Regiment Army Air Corps showing how an Apache is armed. The Army Air Corps’ hot air balloon was also on show to give a bird’s-eye view of the event.

Major Jamie Milnes, of 6 Regt AAC, said: “As a reserve unit based and recruiting in the county, the Suffolk Show is a key opportunity to engage with, and thank, our local community for the splendid support we receive. It allows us to put on a show for the public to demonstrate the skills of our people and the impressive equipment and capabilities they provide.

“We’ve had crowds of people coming to the stands and everyone has enjoyed having the opportunity to talk to soldiers face-to-face to find out more about the military in Suffolk.”

The Suffolk Agricultural Association, which organizes the event, had donated 400 family tickets to military families based in Essex and Suffolk.

From the Apache attack helicopter to combat engineers operating underwater, the British Army has been on display at the Suffolk Show.

Army on Show to Suffolk Community


PEOPLE

PICTURED: LCpl Betty spots the enemy

5 Regiment AAC hosted an Aviation PNCO CLM course 16th to 27th March this year. The course qualifies Lance Corporals to hold their

rank. The course is designed to teach potential junior non-commission officers the skills with which to perform in their new found rank.

lessons were conducted with a clear aviation theme; clearing a HLS, providing protection and controlling aircraft into land. A complex set of casualty drills saw the course demonstrate their skills.

Sunday night brought the now clearly fatigued course into a patrol base location, a much needed morale boost after late night harbour contacts. The

patrol base itself is equipped with night and day cameras, fully functioning guard room and… showers - an ideal location to train an Army Air Corps soldier deploying on operations. Moving into a three section rotation of Quick Reaction Force, Patrols and Guard Force the course quickly stepped into their command appointments dealing with a variety of scenarios.

A rolling scenario had the troop working with the local security force to secure the area of operations. Each scenario brought the course closer to their end state of defeating the tenacious local warlord, even if the enemy seemed to be a 24 hour hassle. The scenario gradually progressed through simple meet and greets with local police through to ambushes, mass casualty drills and reconnaissance patrols on potential enemy positions through to a dawn attack on the final enemy position.

The course culminated in an insertion TAB into an FRV with Gazelle aircraft providing an added command and control twist – flying

low passes to simulate aviation support, those in command appointment having to fight to get their orders across. Clearing the enemy from the surrounding fields they held a final stand in an isolated building – swiftly cleared using skills they had learnt on the course a testament to their progression.

After a hard fought exercise End Ex was called and bacon rolls were served and a presentation for the Student’s Student and Best Student were awarded. LCpl Clarke received the Student’s Student award for his efforts. LCpl Hodson receivied the well earned Best Student Award for his professional and determined approach.

Written By: Lt Mike Askey 5 Regt AAC Trg Offr

AAC JNCOs Put Through Their Paces

Airtroopers and Lance Corporals from across the Army Air Corp travelled to Northern Ireland to participate in the course, for some

the first experience of the Emerald Isle – and were fortunate enough to experience the pleasant weather conditions during their stay.

21 potential JNCO’s arrived at FS Aldergrove on the night of the 16th March completing the mandatory briefings and admin before getting their heads down in anticipation of day 1. The course started in traditional fashion with a PFA followed by a set of briefs. Subjects included administrating, welfare and

discipline; all critical skills that a JNCO must swiftly come to terms with. Group discussions were a valuable tool in almost all subjects allowing the prospective JNCO’s a forum to voice opinion. Each evening a section delivered their presentations on Corps history, a high standard of presentation was delivered and most were presented with considerable pride in their parent squadrons or regiments.

The classroom based start to the course had a number of green events throughout the programme, with an AFT and section battle lessons hinting at things to come. The course deployed early Friday morning to Magilligan Training Area located on the north coast. A rapid deployment saw the course shake out, apply cam and begin their battle lessons.

Operating out of a harbour location for the first two nights the students got to grips with practical navigation with a day and night navigation exercise. While the relatively flat training area seemed like an easy area to navigate around the course quickly found many ditches, sparse wood blocks and field boundaries to compete with! Battle

TOP LEFT: 2 Section breaches the final objective

ABOVE: LCpl Hartley formulates his plan

LEFT: Capt Davenport takes IDF on the HLS

BELOW: LCpl Boulby assaults the enemy position

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PEOPLE CHARITY

Maj Pete Farrimond, OC 7 Flt AAC said ‘The Flight has had a close bond with the Brigade of Gurkhas

throughout its history, from the Malayan Emergency, Borneo Confrontation, Hong Kong through to today.‘

Adding ‘We are proud to play a small part in recognising and supporting this important anniversary and the 200 years of Gurkha service to the Crown.’

7 Flt AAC provides day/night MEDEVAC, trooping, movement of materiel and heli-abseil tasking in support of British Forces Brunei and exercising units. It is the Joint Helicopter Command’s specialist Jungle Aviation unit and is permanently based in South East Asia, able to support regional Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Operations in addition to its standing tasks.

The Flight has recently been involved in a number of key exercises and has aided the Bruneian Fire Department (Bomba) in fighting forest fires in the local area.

Maj Pete Farrimond said ‘The small Flight is a critical enabler for the resident RGR Battalion, Training Team Brunei and exercising units. It maintains a high flying rate in support of over ten major exercises each year, operating in the demanding jungle environment. It has a strong relationship with the Gurkhas, which I hope continues long into the future.’

7 Flight AAC Supports Gurkha 200 Anniversary

7 Flt AAC, co-located with 1st Battalion Royal Gurkha Rifles in Brunei, have added the Gurkha 200 anniversary logo to their Bell 212 helicopters which have supported the Resident Gurkha Infantry Battalion since 1994.

Written By: Capt Mike James



16 Air Assault Brigade’s logistics specialists 13 Air Assault Support Regiment Royal Logistic Corps, has a number of Gurkha soldiers amongst its ranks, who have pulled together to

raise funds to help those who have lost everything.

Soldiers Raise Money to Help Nepalese Earthquake Victims

The core role of 13 Air Assault Support Regiment Royal Logistic Corps (13 AA Sp Regt RLC) is to supply and distribute materiel, food, fuel, ammunition and spare parts to 16 Air Assault Brigade, the British Army’s rapid reaction force. The regiment specialises in the movement of supplies by helicopter and aeroplanes, including air despatch.

Colchester-based soldiers have taken part in a week of physical challenges to raise more than £8,000 to help victims of the recent earthquakes in Nepal.

as well who’ve got no homes and no food but who are still trying to make

FURTHER INFORMATION

to support relief efforts by the charity HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation Nepal in the Sindhupalchok and Gorkha valleys.

Fundraising for Nepal will continue at the 16 Air Assault Brigade and Colchester Garrison Show, being held on Abbey Field on Saturday 4th July, with a collection to support Colchester Nepalese Society’s relief efforts.

The six-strong chain gang from HQ Company, 7th Air Assault Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers are aiming to cycle 500 miles on exercise bikes in two 12-hour

stages outside local supermarkets. The first leg was cycled at Sainsbury’s in Ipswich today (17th March) from 8am to 8pm, with the second instalment taking place at Morrisons in Hadleigh on Thursday (19th March).

The endurance challenge was the idea of Sergeant Steve Parnell.

The 31-year-old from York said: “I’m a keen cyclist and wanted to do an event to both build up team spirit within

Soldiers Cycle Round the Clock for Charity

A team of Wattisham-based soldiers will be riding round the clock to raise money for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity.

the company and raise money for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. It’s the Army’s own charity, run by soldiers for soldiers, and it understands our needs. I know quite a few people who’ve been helped by it and wanted to do my bit for them.

“It’s been quite tough going, but we’re all working well together. The guys have been stints of 30 minutes

each, and are having to keep their speed at 22 miles per hour throughout to stay on course for the distance. What’s really kept our morale high has been the generosity of the public - people have been putting £20 notes in the bucket, but even the smallest chink of loose change lifts your spirits.”

The fundraising kicked off with troops racking up the miles on rowing machines and exercise bikes while collecting from shoppers at Tesco at the Hythe last Tuesday (5th May). On Thursday (7th May) the soldiers continued with a treadmill run outside their headquarters at Merville Barracks, taking it in turns to run for an entire 24 hours. Concurrently, other troops carried out exercises such as weight lifting and step exercises to simulate climbing the equivalent height of Mount Everest.

The final event was a race on the 8th May between 13 AA Sp Regt RLC’s Colchester-based squadrons to pull an ambulance round the barracks in the quickest possible time.

Event organiser Sergeant Jigmi Lama said: “We had three teams out here today made up of the Regiment’s different squadrons. The route was 3km, it was signify the height of Mount Everest. As we were running, soldiers from the rest of the brigade were cheering for us. At the same time, it felt like they were cheering for the people back home

a living out there. It’s good to know that the funds we have raised will help those people.”

With the fundraising total still to be finalised, more than £8,000 has been raised

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SPORT

The competition is designed to promote weapon handling, marksmanship, fitness and expose soldiers to demanding, enjoyable and operationally relevant shoots. The competition

consists of ten matches in total, ranging from static long range defence shoots to close range shoots.

The team arrived at BTC on the Friday night. On completion of settling into the accommodation we proceeded to the NAAFI, for a team meeting. Prior to arrival I had produced “cheat sheets” for the complex matches and we soon had enough empty coke cans to “rehearse” the upcoming day’s matches.

After grouping and zeroing in the morning we moved on to our first shoot of the competition, The Defence Match.

Northern Ireland Operational Shooting Competition 2015

On the weekend of 9th to 10th May, 5 Regiment AAC entered a ten man team (and myself as the non-firing team captain (NFTC)), into the Northern Ireland Operational Shooting Competition (NIOSC), held at Ballykinler Training Centre (BTC).

This shoot started with a 100m dash to the firing point followed by various targets appearing at different ranges up to 300m. It came as bit of a shock because due to range availability during the previous training week, no one had realised how small a figure 12 target looks at 300m! That being said we finished the match in a respectable 5th place (out of 13 teams) with SSgt “Gaz” Stewart, LCpl “Princess” Denny

and LCpl Pegram all scoring highly and finishing within the top 20.

After getting over the initial shock, we moved to the next shoot which was the Advance to Contact Match. This started with a 500m run, to be completed in less than 3 mins, and then shoots starting at 400m going down to 100m. The team did very well and achieved one of the top 3 scores for the day which helped to boost confidence in the team. However we were later told that this match would not be counted due to a technical failure

of the SARTS system. Typical! We finished the first day in a respectable 9th place overall.

After another night of NAAFI rehearsals, we started the Sunday with the Short Range Rural Contact Assessment. This shoot involved a lot of running between firing points from 300m down to 100m. A few of the team were unable to identify the correct targets (they know who they are!) so as you can imagine the score was not the best! Luckily for us there was another technical glitch and our scores were not recorded. We were told that we could re-shoot the match later in the day.

We then moved to the Fire Team Close Combat Match. This match involved operating as a fire team and moving between various types of cover from, 100m down to 25m. Airtpr Stefan “Rambo” Bodle was one of the teams LSW gunners (and the teams’ morale!) and after the first phase of the shoot had spare ammo. He had been told by the range staff that because he was a designated gunner he could switch to automatic, which he did without hesitation and was soon advancing down the range “brassing” up targets, hence the nickname Rambo!

Next was the dreaded Section Advance to Contact Match. The match started with a 2.4km run carrying full kit to be completed in less than 18 mins. Prior to starting the run phase we were approached by BFBS who asked if they could film us; we agreed on condition that they only film us at the start! The shoot phase of this match started at 600m for the gunners and 500m for the riflemen. We had been unable to

practice this shoot and soon realised that figure 11 targets at 600m are not the easiest to see.

The last match of the day was the Fire Team Falling Plates Match. This match is exactly what it says it is. Ten plates at 200m first team to knock them all down wins. Unfortunately in true Northern Irish tradition the weather turned against us and the team found that water causes the SUSAT to quickly steam up, therefore, along with other teams we were quickly eliminated in the first round.

The competition was won overall by last year’s winners 253 (Reserve) Med Regt, with 5 Regt maintaining their position of 9th place from the first day. Two members of the team finished within the top 50 out 138, SSgt Stewart (Wksp) 11th place and LCpl Pegram (Geo Tp) 48th place; well done to both.

The competition was well supported by all departments within 5 AAC. The weekend was thoroughly enjoyed by all and I am confident that with this continued level of support, next year 5 Regt will finish much higher in the table.

Written By: Sgt M Simpson

Exercise

White KnightAs part of the AAC and RAC annual alpine skiing Exercise, 5 AAC sent a team of six to Verbier to train and compete across four disciplines; Slalom, Grand Slalom, Super G and Downhill.

The team ranged from complete novice to experienced, but all were challenged physically and mentally over the four training weeks and

the ten days competition. Limited snowfall meant that conditions were icier than usual,

creating a tricky surface to learn on. Despite this, the excellent instruction from the Swiss Ski School enabled all the skiers to improve within their own capabilities. The town of Verbier provided much entertainment to balance the busy

skiing schedule and the opportunity to experience Christmas and New Year in such a setting was fantastic. Given the relative inexperience of our team, we competed with success; winning top AAC Team, best AAC Individual (Capt Rob Hewison) and coming third overall out of fourteen teams from across the RAC and AAC – a brilliant achievement. Looking forward, we hope to build on this success, taking a larger and even more competitive team in 2015/6.


SPORT

The event was an electronically timed Novice race, suitable for first timers, and a Sprint race for every other racing

snake who wanted a shot at the title.

EQUIPMENTI decided that if I were going to do this I needed to look the part…on the start line at least. I signed out a road bike from the QM’s and borrowed a Tri Suit - a good start at no cost - then suddenly realised that I had become part of the MAMIL (Middle Aged Man in Lycra) clan and was still not comfortable with this look. Having spent the last 15 years cursing packs of sponsored cyclists around country lanes, impeding the progress of us tax paying motorists, I felt hypocritical.

TRAININGThe training didn’t go as well as I hoped with it being more of an ability test. I identified the required distance for a Novice Sprint Triathlon (400m swim, 20km bike and 5km run) and confirmed that I could complete them. Swim test, all good, although 400m seems a long way in a pool. Riding a road bike was fairly new but I had ridden a mountain bike before so how different could it be? The cleated shoes and clip-in peddles were new to me and we didn’t have the greatest of starts, however I soon got the idea when I picked myself up from the ground after forgetting to disconnect my feet from the bike. The run was the only part I was fairly happy with, so no practice required.

All I had to do then was put it together in one event. Somewhere in the back of my mind was a nagging voice saying ‘practise the transitions’. This was completely ignored - how hard could it be to get changed? I’d been doing it for years!

RACE DAY, 20TH MAY 2015The day loomed and I was ‘prepared’, that is, I registered on time. I was placed in wave

Written By: WO2 (SSM) Tim Couzens

Written By: LCpl Wright

As the words ‘How hard can it be?’ left my mouth, I knew I would regret them, and sure enough as Capt Rob Gittoes gave the standard response, ‘Prove it then!’ I knew I couldn’t back down. So, the second Yeovilton Triathlon it is then.

It now became very clear why triathletes practice the transitions from bike to run - it is Hell on Earth!

This was an extremely uncomfortable first mile and a bit of a shock if you are not expecting it. Your legs are very tight, they do loosen up but it takes a while to get into your stride. A 5km loop was the designated distance around the local countryside. The long straight towards the end gave the runners the chance to see the later competitors finishing their ride as you completed the run.

The final turn into the finishing straight was a good feeling, hearing the music and seeing the finishing tunnel. A burger wagon wouldn’t have gone amiss but at least water, an open bar and free soup was on offer!

All in all a great experience and highly recommended for anyone to have a go. You don’t need to be a 20 year old racing snake (if we have such a thing any more). I’m a 39 year old first time triathlete with little training and I got round successfully, so give it a go - what have you got to lose?

So far 2015 has been a busy year for skydiving. March saw the annual AAC skydiving Accelerated Free Fall (AFF) expedition to California, where 12 new skydivers gained qualifications.

Army Air CorpsParachuting

one, which was for the full-on novices. With registration complete, it was time to prepare kit and equipment ready for the transitions. Looking around I realised that there were many people here taking it very seriously and lots of tactics being talked, but also a few complete novices, looking just as lost as me. There is good safety in clueless numbers.

At 1300 we were a-go and wave one pushed off from the side for our 16 lengths. Swimming suddenly became more difficult

The cycle was very pleasant and as it was only my second outing on a road bike it was still a novelty and enjoyable. I wasn’t overtaken but nor did I overtake. The ride took me about 42 minutes for 20km, not too shabby.

On returning to the transition area I succeeded in getting my feet out of the shoes whilst cycling so I could speed up the process ready for the run. The transition this time was much slicker taking only 46 seconds.

than I remembered. Every four minutes another wave enter the pool and obviously individuals departed to the transition for the bike. At just under 10 minutes I dragged my waterlogged body out of the pool, noting that swimming is not my strong point!

My transition to bike was slightly more casual than some of the top competitors but it did leave me time to catch a breath and contemplate the move to cycling. I opted to put my cycling shoes on before mounting the bike but saw the top guys attached them to the pedals and then carry out some form of shoe gymnastics, getting their feet into the shoes while cycling; I didn’t trust my co-ordination for this ‘feet’ of skill.

ABOVE: LCpl Jodie Beckingham from 2 Regt

AAC Novice Female Winner

These trips are essential as it is the best way to encourage new people into the sport. It also helps more experienced skydivers to develop

their skills and practice for the competitions throughout the year, many of which are taught by a team of coaches from the AAC.

For people who can’t attend AFF Expeds for work or financial reasons there are Static Line courses which are ran every week at the Joint Service Parachute Centre Netheravon (JSPCN)

This is where students are taught to exit the aircraft in a stable position attached to a static line. In May, the AAC took ten students to Netheravon which was very successful and achieved a good number of jumps.

This year the AAC have put together a formation skydiving team. We are competing in disciplines such as Accuracy, Free Flying

and more commonly formation skydiving. So far this year we have competed in the United Kingdom Skydiving League (UKSL) where teams from all over the

UK compete in three separate competitions, for each competition the winner gets ten points and so on. At the end of the three meets the overall winner is announced.

At the first meet in May the AAC Team managed to take gold by a huge margin. This put us first in the UKSL and subsequently resulted in first place in the European Skydiving League (ESL) which is a different league altogether that takes into account scores from all leagues in the whole of Europe.

Other competitions planned this year include the Armed Forces Parachuting Championship (AFPC) and the UK Nationals.

Historically our team has done very well at the AFPC and we hope to achieve gold. We are all very proud to compete for the Corps in the UK Nationals and we are working hard to take home a medal!

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SPORT

Lt Casey Fuke has participated in three Ex Spartan Hikes (The Nordic and Biathlon Divisional Champs) 2009-2011 and Airtprs Collette Walsh and Alison

Kerr had participated in 2014. The other three females were Novices to the sport although Capt Joanna Vann had a lot of Alpine and touring experience which helped when getting to grips with Nordic Skiis. Cpl Sasha Chilvers

Fundraising was in support of St Michael’s Hospice, a local charity that supports thousands of children and families in the North Yorkshire

area throughout terminal illnesses. The event was held at the Army Foundation College, Harrogate; the facilities are second-to-none in the Army. There are six glass-backed squash courts and state of the art gym equipment as well as a brand new sports hall and a swimming pool. The Regimental Team members supporting the event were Maj Green, WO2 Sharp, Cpl Ryan, Cpl Readshaw and Cpl Squire (see photo above).

The event has been attempted previously, in 2013, and so we knew it could be done. However, Maj Green said he had managed to erase from his memory just how demanding it was the last time. Throughout the day, Maj Green played squash matches against 26 opponents, back-to back, over a ten hour period. In total this amounted to 83 games! He won 74 and lost nine - not a bad

9 Regt AAC Charity Squash Marathon Endurance Event

record given the gruelling nature of the event. An event like this has so many people involved and relies on a swept up support team to ensure that everything runs like clockwork.

The Regimental Squash Team members supported the day by ensuring that all opponents arrived on time and were fully briefed on what to expect. They also conducted fundraising, erected banners and supplied refreshments for the 26 players who took part. On top of this, they played warm-up matches against the opponents before (and sometimes after) they had played Maj Green. Some of the support team actually played over 20 matches themselves!

More about the charity: St Michael’s Hospice exists to help people with terminal illness to live and die well. This is done by offering specialist care, comfort and support, free of charge, to patients and their families. The vision is of a community where everyone gets the care they need to live their last years, months and days with respect and dignity. The event was a huge success, raising over £600 for the charity. There is still time to donate by simply texting: SMSM91 £5 to 70070.

In May 2015 members of the 9 Regt AAC Squash team raised money for a local charity by taking part in a charity “squash marathon” fundraising endurance event.

Written By: Cpl Paul Ryan

ABOVE: From left to right: LCpl Squire, WO2 Sharp, Maj Green,

Cpl Ryan, LCpl Readshaw

Written By: Lt Casey Fuke

For the first time in two years the Army Air Corps put forward a Female Nordic and Biathlon Ski Team consisting of six females; four from 4 Regiment, one from 9 Regiment and one from 6 Regiment AAC.

AAC Female Nordic Skiing

was a complete novice having never been on snow in any form and Airtpr Karen Akehurst had at least been alpine skiing, which aided her ability to pick up the technique. The ladies were truly thrown in at the deep end by entering straight into Ex NORDIC WHITE FIST in Hochfilzen, Austria the RA, RAC and AAC Nordic Championships with very limited experience. 2 Regt AAC also put forward a very strong male team and it was the first time that the AAC had both a female and male team at Ex NORDIC WHITE FIST in years.

On arrival in Austria we had three days to teach and master two different types of Skiing as well as learning how to handle and shoot the Biathlon Rifle before the races started; no mean feat. Classic and Skate are the recognised skiing techniques and both

require different skis that need to be waxed each night. The team showed determination in the first few races, competing against experienced skiers

– even the novices from other teams had at this point been skiing for several months at training camps in Norway. The steep inclines and descents were intimidating to even the most experienced skiers and the world cup track claimed a few injuries over the course of the week but our team used it as training and experience for the next level of competition at Ex SPARTAN HIKE.

Many of the teams from Hochfilzen also travelled to Ex SPARTAN HIKE as well as some new faces. The course here guaranteed to be more gently undulating and the team captain, Lt Casey Fuke had promised the ladies it would be much easier. On arrival at Serre Chevalier, France we were bitterly disappointed to see no snow! The course organisers overcame this by creating courses in ‘the Coll’ about 20 minutes drive up the valley to a higher altitude. With the higher altitude also came a much colder race and the shooting aspect of the race separated from the skiing element with the ranges situated in the lower part of the valley. With limited space to create 10-15km race courses the track became winding with very tight turns and very congested as multiple loops had to be skied to cover the distances. This was not the ideal conditions promised to the team but their spirits were not dampened and they all gave every race maximum effort which was warming to witness.

The team members picked up a few medals in the AAC category at Ex NORDIC WHITE FIST competing against each other. Airtpr Akehurst won three gold medals at Ex SPARTAN HIKE in the Female Reserve Category for cross-country, Biathlon and the combined category and Lt Fuke qualified comfortably for the Army Championships which was pleasing given the time away from Nordic and with minimal time on snow that season.

It was invaluable experience participating in the earlier events as there is a lot of detail to organise, in particular weapons, ammunition and the associated Diplomatic Clearances. This year Lt Fuke will captain the team once again, taking another six females to compete and with plenty more planning time and funding already granted we are able to train in Norway before hitting the competitions in 2016.

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SPORT

The sportive, known as the “ Hell of the North” failed to dissuade anyone, with many people brimming with confidence after completing the

six day Scottish epic; however, the smooth coastline roads of the Hebrides would soon be replaced by the world famous, bone shaking pave sections of the Paris-Roubaix….

So, as with all exercises or expeditions, lots of administration was undertaken, funding was

windy and face-muddying Paris-Roubaix. It wasn’t too long before the group naturally spilt into its micro groups, although with 3 feeding stations on route, and surely a few punctures, we all agreed it would be a day of passing each other by and leap frogging. I found myself with WO2 SSM Kenny Wayman, someone I had ridden with before and knew we were suitably matched for this kind of race. Our pace was strong and consistent and the miles were soon beginning to drift by with relative ease. Just in front were Maj Woodhouse, Maj Goodier and Lt Col Cook and just behind were Lt Pantoja and Airtpr Harvey. Somewhere else, unbeknown to anyone, were Sgt Brummit REME and Sgt England REME. I must say at this point we were also lucky enough to have two support crew, consisting of WO2 Mulkeen and Airtpr Moore. They met us at feeding stations to ensure we could refuel sufficiently, and generally helped us in our challenge.

Moving on, as the groups split, we all had our own experiences; myself and WO2 Wayman were lucky enough not to suffer any punctures throughout the race. Most people had changed the normal road tyres for ones more suitable, generally wider, for comfort and stronger to avoid punctures over the 28 Pave sections. Time was flying by and before we knew it we arrived at our first feeding stop at the 42km mark. We took on a little energy but were swiftly back on our way. By this point we had already completed 5 Pave sections and were raring to tackle the next 22; rain still drizzling down, we ploughed on through several villages and down the rural country roads, averaging anywhere between 18-24mph on the road sections. The Pave sectors are regular but vary in distance, anything from 700m to 3km in length. Each is awarded a star rating of 1-5, 1 being the easiest, 5 being the most difficult, and are what makes the Paris - Roubaix the iconic race it is and, although in my opinion fairly horrible, when you do “get it right” and get that one good line, maintain your cadence and speed and finish them, the feeling is pretty good.

With the dreaded Arenberg now complete and behind us, we approached feeding station 2, and the 81km mark. We stopped for 20 minutes, took on energy in the form of bananas, cereal bars and the odd bit of flap jack, took a quick toilet break, refilled our bottles with carb and electrolyte drinks and mounted up. Another 50km and 9 Pave sections awaited us until our final feeding station. Rain showers and

9 Regiment AAC Cycling

Paris-Roubaix 2015Fresh from cycling the full length of the Outer Hebrides in September 2014, a group of keen cyclists led by Maj “Woody” Woodhouse signed up for the iconic sportive, Paris-Roubaix, that was to be held in France in April of 2015.

sourced, ferry bookings made, the nominal roll was finalised, transport procured and accommodation arranged. The tasks were shared out within the group, and completed with relative ease, and finally on the 9th April, we had the people, the kit and the bikes leaving Dishforth and heading for Dover, via a pick up of the team YO, Lt Emily Pantoja. With all members now on board we headed for the ferry port. Managing to squeeze onto an earlier ferry, we found ourselves in France ahead of schedule, cruising to our final destination of Cambrai. Maj Woodhouse, via a very friendly French Lt Col, had procured us some accommodation within an old French Fort; a room large enough for all of our camp cots, bikes and kit and with semi warm showers. After the initial set up of beds we headed into town for a evening meal and a few refreshments, typically jumping into the first place we saw.

The morning of Day 2, the day before our challenge, we had all agreed it would be wise to get out on our bikes and find some of the Pave section (cobbles) so we could experience how they felt before the big day. In typical Woodhouse fashion, we headed directly to the

Trouee d’Arenberg, a 2.4km 5 star rated (the hardest) sector of Pave; with the sun shining brightly, the section didn’t actually

look too bad to the naked eye. However, the second the wheels hit the cobbles, it rapidly became apparent just how uncomfortable

and technically difficult the 28 Pave sections were going to be. These cobbled roads should not to be confused with the gentle cobbled streets you may find in a quaint Yorkshire village; these were more of an ancient Roman road built for horse and carts to travel along! Large

protruding singular bricks, greatly uneven and extremely difficult to navigate through with no “good line” really available. However, with everyone completing the section we moved on and found another few, less severe and with a lower star rating and gave them a bash; still fairly horrid, but nice in comparison to the Arenberg! At least that was number 18 of 28, so we would be hitting that fairly late on in the race. With approx 20 miles in our legs and another swing back down the Arenberg, we all decided we had enough experience and practise and were grateful that it would come as a big surprise to us all on race day. The supermarket was our next destination before heading back to the restaurant to fill ourselves with lots of pasta.

Day 3 saw an early start; we rose at 0600 to ensure we all had plenty of time to get ourselves sorted and on the transport by 0700. The start line was only about 45 minutes away and we could start between 0700-0900 from the little village of Busigny. We had planned to arrive early to avoid the really slow riders mounting up at the start line at approx 0750. Within the group we had riders of different abilities, but all with the determination, fitness and endurance to finish the 170km. Last toilet stop, quick photo and we were off, leaving behind the jostling crowds and blasting music of Busigny. The weather hadn’t been as kind as the previous day (grey, overcast and raining), this was to set the scene for a typically wet,

gusting winds still with us, we moved on at a steady pace, more often than not, overtaking rather than being overtaken. Myself and the SSM were chatting away nicely and cruising along, passing by small towns now with many more local people out of bed and shouting words of encouragement, mostly “Alle, Alle Alle!” Passing the 120km mark, approx 75 miles, we are now within touching distance of the final feeding station, at this point I think it would be fair to say that although we have plenty left in the tank, the wind and sometimes the slight inclines are now not as easy as before. We approach feeding station 3 at 130km, and with the weather now slightly improving our morale is high and we stop, chat to the support crew and take on our final bit of energy ensuring that it gets us over the finishing line and into the world famous Roubaix velodrome.

settle for creeping through traffic and in the SSM’s case, one final crash. With the traffic clearing, we turn right into the velodrome and pass under the welcome banners into the noise of the crowds and supporters and begin our victory lap. We take the high line around the banking of the velodrome (neither one of us has ridden in one before so decide to milk it!) and come off the banking and cross the line together posing for our finishing photo, the sun even came out to make it even more special.

Both grinning we congratulate and thank each other, now stiff we slowly dismount and head to see if any of group have finished. We find Lt Col Cook, Maj Goodier, and Sgt Brummit have just finished and hear the dreaded news that Maj Woodhouse suffered an irreparable mechanical failure and couldn’t finish with only 30km to go. We all feel sorry for him as he has trained the most, is the strongest rider and put the whole thing together – there is no justice and I pretty much immediately hear he’s already roped Maj Goodier into completing it again in 2016! The remainder of the team all safely cross the finish line, Lt Pantoja has had much more of a traumatic time than we did, multiple punctures, a few crashes and riding solo for most of it, a tough task but shows true Paris -Roubaix spirit. It was a thoroughly enjoyable weekend, a fantastic challenge for any cyclist and more importantly, completely achievable. A privilege to be part of it, and although I’m not signing up just yet, I’d never say never to doing it again.

Written By: LCpl Paul Ryan

Leaving the feed station, we know we only have 40km to go, and more importantly only 7 Pave sections. The crowds are getting larger and the cheering louder; the finish line is fast approaching. the Pave sections count down on the signs, and I’d be lying if I didn’t say seeing singular numbers instead of double figure wasn’t a pleasant sight. We are now into the last few sections, shorter in distance and with plenty of adrenaline now rushing through our bodies. The SSM and I are feeling strong and grinning at each other like kids, knowing we are into the last few miles and that nothing can stop us hitting the velodrome. We make a turn into what we know is one of the final climbs, the roads are now smooth and we have completed all the pave sections, no more cobbles and I cant say I’m sorry about that! We turn onto the final approach road to the velodrome and were disappointed to see that its laden with traffic. I was hoping for an explosive ending to the race but we had to ©

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As a break from drawing contours on maps and taking pictures of the ground, personnel from RIGC (NI) have been trailing up hills looking at actual contours and gaining an appreciation for conditions on real ground.

Written By: L/Cpl Kirsten Alexander

Monthly organised walks have taken place in the Kingdom of Mourne where RIGC (NI) staff have had the opportunity

to hone their navigation skills and learn about new aspects of walking, such as confidence roping, whilst taking in the spectacular scenery of the Mournes.

Regardless of weather, each walk has been successful and has been enjoyed by all and

even in the drive over to County Down; it isn’t hard to see why. The Mourne Mountains are a recognised area of outstanding natural beauty where dozens of glaciated sculpted peaks have

been uniquely squeezed into an area extending approximately fifteen miles. There are six peaks over 700 metres above sea level with Slieve Donard the highest at 853 metres, which have been hit six times in the last two months alone by different teams within the RIGC (NI). The mountain range itself is crisscrossed with a multitude of tracks and paths making it perfect to navigate but it would take years to explore fully. Just a couple of kilometres from the famous Bloody Bridge lies the hidden Silent Valley which is not just spectacular to see but is also essential as it holds the main water supply to Belfast, covered by the magnificent twenty-two mile Mourne

Wall which took eighteen years to build by hand. The crescents of granite topped peaks enclose the kingdom of Mourne making it the most dramatic mountain range in Northern Ireland.

Any newcomer to the area will be able to navigate successfully with proper planning which will subsequently finish in

an enjoyable, safe day on the mountain. As any hillwalker knows, the day on the hill is not actually finished until tea and cake are being enjoyed and the Mourne Mountain benefits from being next door to the tourist area of Newcastle where energy can be replenished after an arduous day on the hill – this also provides an appetising alternative to the ration packs provided by the cookhouse.

The most important thing to remember when out on the hills is that the party is always governed by the capabilities of the weakest member – stay safe on the hills and be aware of dangers. Always carry a map and compass (and know how to use them) and above all, enjoy the day. The Mourne Mountains are a giant playground and are easily accessible to go and play in.


SPORT

We are approaching the start of the next season and Inter-Corps Competition where selection for the Army team takes place. In September 2014 ladies from across the

Corps came together to train in Middle Wallop getting great coaching and dedication from Ann Coffey and Ex England Netball player Capt Joanna Vann. All this was in preparation for our Netball Tour to Barbados.

In October 2014 17 AAC ladies boarded their flight to Barbados. The Hotel apartment was located on the sea front with a few restaurants in the vicinity and the outdoor Netball court, which doubled up as a basketball court, just a ten minute walk away. Each morning we began training around 0830, the public court had no shade so we finished training before lunch and before it became too hot. The benefit of having everyone in one place was invaluable and it had been difficult to achieve with busy work commitments in the UK. In the training sessions we focussed on key skills and developed our teamwork.

The first match we played was on the second night, so with little chance to select players for their positions we were being watched by the locals play against two U16 National development teams. In Barbados, Netball is a

popular sport for spectators in comparison to the UK. Proud parents watched as their daughters marginally beat both of our teams. Word had spread quickly around the town and the next day we were getting

questioned and bantered by the locals: “Are you the team that got beaten by the development girls last night?”… Urrr Yes.

With more training and matches, experimenting with different configurations of players, the team grew stronger and began to develop the vital skill of non-verbal communication and spatial awareness; each person knew where the other players were going to back them up and where their strengths lay. We filmed our matches and for many of us it was the first time we had ever used video analysis as a training tool. It was extremely useful in enabling players to see where they had created good space and opportunities, and where they had made poor decisions. The tour culminated with our final match against the Island’s University First

AAC NetballThe participation of Netball in the Army Air Corps has increased this year which has been wonderful to see.

Written By: Lt Casey Fuke

Team. This was a very tough match and rapidly the number of goals conceded against us grew. Unfortunately we did not win a match during the tour but we developed a lot of valuable netball skills. Throughout all the matches the Bajan ladies put up stiff competition and always welcomed us and thanked us warmly. There was also time during the tour to visit the famous fish market, enjoy a trip on a Catamaran and swim with turtles as well as chilling out in the Boat Yard with swimming, swings and volleyball.

The AAC entered one team in the top division of the Inter-Corps championships thanks to a strong performance last year in the second division as well as a B team in the second division. We surprised ourselves initially by beating some of the renowned top teams such as the Royal Logistic Corps second team and the Royal Signals. The top spots were taken in the end by the RLC and AGC but we came 3rd and were extremely proud to have surpassed our expectations; all the training together had certainly paid off. The B Team also did very well coming second to the Royal Engineers who will now move up into the first division. We have now set precedence and have ambitions to come at least second this year.

The AAC had a few individuals selected for the Army Netball team selection; Lt Rachel Durrell, Lt Casey Fuke and Airtpr Lucy Roberts, who was unable to compete in the Inter-Corps Championships but was selected to play for the Army B team in the Inter-Services Competition.

42 ISSUE 2, 2015 / LZDZ THE JHC DELIVERING JOINT SUCCESS ON OPERATIONS

SPORT

Organised by POAET Bryn Phillips, of 845 Naval Air Squadron Commando Helicopter Force, the marathon was a great success

with participants competing not only for a personal best race time but also for the title of the winner of the first ever Yeovil Marathon.

The winner of that coveted title went to Tim Hawkins with a fantastic time of 2 hours, 47 minutes and 21 seconds. Tim was presented with his medal by Abigail Garrett, a student at Charlton Horethorne CofE School, who won the competition to design the medal.

Tim said: “It was great to win. I took the first part of the race a bit too fast and suffered for the last five miles. But overall, I held it together well and it’s absolutely fantastic to win the first Yeovil Marathon, especially with Yeovil being in my home town.”

The marathon was held through the Yeovil Town Road Running Club and all money raised going to the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and the Yeovilton Military Wives Choir, with the total standing at over £3,000 with donations still coming in.

POAET Bryn Phillips said: “It was fantastic to see everyone off the start line.

After all the hard work it was quite an emotional moment, but we’ve raised a huge amount of money for the


The first ever Yeovil Marathon took place on Sunday 14th June at the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton with over 230 competitors taking part.

RNRMC and the Yeovilton Military Wives Choir and the families have enjoyed the day so it’s been a great success. Now to start the planning for next years marathon!”

The marathon was sponsored and supported by a number of companies from around Somerset; Agusta Westlands, Tony Pryce Sports, Sodexo, Yarlington Homes, Symonds and Sampson and Aztec Media.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to all the volunteers who were willing to get out of bed so early on a Sunday morning, our sponsors, everyone who took part and the families who supported them.” Added Bryn.

The second Yeovil Marathon will take place on the 12th June 2016 so plenty of time to get training - Fly Navy, Run Yeovilton!

Making the Yeovil Marathon a true community event, POAET Bryn Phillips, organiser and race director, invited two schools; Milford Junior School and Charlton Horethorne CofE School, to design the finishers medal.


T he rules laid down were minimal, but the design had to fit inside a disc 60mm in diameter and

have a Naval Aviation theme. The race directors picked a

design from each Year Group and put them in to a final round of judging to establish the overall winner. Each design from each Year Group picked won a prize, with the overall design winner being given an extra prize.

Abigail Garrett, a student at Charlton Horethorne CofE School, was chosen as the overall design winner with her excellent ‘Fly Navy, Run Yeovil’ design. Abigail said she was very pleased and excited about seeing her design on the real medal.

Yeovilton Flying High with Marathon Success

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It has a twin bedroom, open plan kitchen and lounge. The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven, microwave, toaster and washing machine. There is a family sized bathroom. The lounge has a sofa (which converts into two more single beds) and a table to seat four. A TV, DVD and CD player are also available. Both the lounge and bedroom have patio doors which open onto the balcony offering views over the swimming pool and across Lagos.There is ample car parking space in front of the building.

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Documents

Our Ability Wildcat to React Waves - LZDZ · rapid and very successful deployment of 3 Chinooks and Joint Helicopter Force HQ 3 to India in the wake of the Nepal earthquake. Although