celebrating raf100 - lzdz · commando aircrewmen training – merlin student commando aircrewmen in...

T H E J H C D E L I V E R I N G J O I N T S U C C E S S O N O P E R A T I O N S

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Celebrating RAF100

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 3

CONTENTS

Contents Issue 3, 2018

COVER STORYRAF 100 Celebrations at RAF Andover, RAF Benson and RAF Odiham ..................................... 08

HONOURS & AWARDSWings Presentation to 28 Commando Merlin Course ....... 06

LESSONS CORNERUsing DLIMS ............................. 14

OPERATIONSRAF Ensign Over Army HQ ...... 07661 Sqn – Support to Op CABRIT ‘The story so far’ ......... 26

CAPABILITYThe Commando Merlin MK4 Has Arrived ............................... 16Designing A Display Masterpiece .............................. 19Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) – RAF Benson............................ 20Jeanne D’Arc Deployment – A Snapshot from the Pacific .. 24

PEOPLEChinook Support to Poppy Appeal ........................... 05RAF 100 Baton Relay ................ 12RAF 100 at RAF Stafford .......... 25Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2018 .................................... 31

SAFETYJHC Safety Team, Hang gliding and Paragliding......................... 28

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.

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4 ISSUE 3, 2018 / LZDZ

FOREWORD

PLEASE TURN TO PAGE 08 FOR THE COVER STORY

RAF 100 CELEBRATIONSL 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: Lt Col Al BambridgeE: [email protected]: 01264 382 086–SALESSales Manager: Laurence RoweE: [email protected]: 01536 526 678–DESIGNERDesigner: Holly DanielsE: [email protected] T: 01536 526 671–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

Rear Admiral Jon Pentreath OBE RNCommander JHC

THE JHC DELIVERING JOINT SUCCESS ON OPERATIONS

This issue of LZDZ marks the zenith of RAF 100 celebrations and my congratulations go to all RAF personnel for this achievement.

It has been a busy period across the JHC to support this milestone, from dinner nights to charity events, and it culminated in the RAF 100 flypast and parade in London

where JHC helicopters and personnel took pride of place at the head of the impressive array of RAF aircraft both past and present.

Life around the Command has continued at pace. 661 Sqn AAC has completed a very successful deployment in support of Op CABRIT in Estonia, a first operational deployment for Army Wildcat. Puma continues to support Op TORAL and as we go to press 3 Chinooks from RAF Odiham have achieved IOC on an 18-month operational deployment to Mali on Op NEWCOMBE, in support of French operations in the Sahel. In addition to the operational deployments, multinational interoperability exercises have continued with helicopters and personnel from CHF, AHF, ARF and SHF working closely with our NATO and coalition allies across the globe.

As we continue to hone our war fighting skills, be it conducting complex deep strike at scale exercises as seen recently during Ex TALON GRAVIS, or Attack

Reconnaissance Teaming (ART), proving the concept of laser target designation, we must ensure we continue to master the basics and empower our junior personnel. This will promote leadership and prepare our people for the challenging environments they will encounter in the future.

Change and budgetary constraints will continue for the foreseeable future. The Modernising Defence Programme (MDP) continues and we are not likely to see the outcomes or decisions until later this year. Tied to MDP is the Rotary Wing Basing Optimisation study which I know from my unit visits is a cause for concern for some of you. I will ensure that as soon as any decisions are made you will be informed.

The Autumn period will continue to be busy and will see JHC play an integral part in the largest Defence overseas exercise in recent years taking place in Oman, a fantastic opportunity to consolidate skills and training. As we approach the Summer leave period, I urge you all to take some time to recharge and reenergise and where you can spend time with your family and loved ones. For those who remain deployed over the summer, keep safe and keep delivering.


On a very sunny May afternoon, the RAF Odiham Engagements and

Media Team, along with the SWO went to Buryfields School in Odiham village to oversee the taking of a photograph. This was no ordinary photograph however; this particular snap would be taken from the back of a hovering Chinook.

The combined children of Buryfields and Mayhill Schools would form a huge poppy shape on the Buryfields playing field, wearing black or red tops and hats to colour the poppy. The detailed organisation by Mrs Emma Flynn from Buryfields School, using coloured bean bags to show the children exactly where to sit, meant that they found their places very quickly and sat chatting

Chinook Support to Poppy Appeal


excitedly, awaiting the Chinook.Word soon came through that

the helicopter had lifted and was on its way, so the children held hands and tried not to look up, which was quite difficult for them. Flt Lt Stu Kynaston brought all his display pilot skills to bear, so as not to blow any hats off and SAC Pippa Fowles, from the photographic section, took the shots. After only ten minutes, the helicopter departed to complete its tasking and left behind some 400 very excited children (and teachers).

The school will be using the images on cards, posters and calendars to raise money for two very well-deserving charities; SSAFA and the Royal British Legion. So, if you happen to see them on sale in the village, put your hand in your pocket and support these great causes.

PEOPLE

AWARDS

Wings Presentation to 28 Commando Merlin Course

Commando Pilot Training – MerlinAfter graduating from Britannia Royal Naval College at Dartmouth, Fleet AirArm Student Pilots are trained initially on light fixed-wing aircraft at RAFBarkston Heath. They then complete their Basic Flying Training at RAF Shawburyflying the single-engine Squirrel helicopter. On completion of the course FleetAir Arm students are streamed to Wildcat or Merlin Operational ConversionFlights. Commando Merlin Mk3 candidates remain at Shawbury, flying the twinengined Griffin helicopter before continuing their training on the Merlin at RNASYeovilton.

To be awarded their wings, Pilots complete an extremely demanding course usingan advanced simulator facility at RAF Benson and flying the real aircraft fromRNAS Yeovilton. 846 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) provides a tailored course thatresults in a graduate being able to competently operate as part of a front line crewwith minimal further training. After learning the handling skills required to safelyconduct flying by day, night and when in cloud, they move on to undertake all thedisciplines required on operations. This involves low level navigation, Night VisionGoggle (NVG) flying, load lifting, mountain flying, formation and embarked

operations; all of which culminates in an exercise in field conditions with real timetasking and an operational overlay.

Commando Aircrewmen Training – MerlinStudent Commando Aircrewmen in the Royal Navy/Royal Marines can eithertransfer across from other specialisations of mainstream RN/RM service or joinas direct entrants. After basic training on the Squirrel helicopter, students completethe Joint Aircrewman Course on the twin-engined Griffin at RAF Shawbury. Oncompletion of the course students join the Operational Conversion Flight at 846NAS. The course follows the

same syllabus as the pilots, demanding a high degreeof knowledge and crew cooperation. Aircrewmen are instrumental in the role ofthe Commando Merlin Mk3 for undertaking operational capabilities such as LoadLifting, Winching, Fast Roping and Confined Areas.

FutureFrom today the graduates will move to the frontline where they can expectto be involved in worldwide operations in support of UK Government DefencePolicy. The Commando Merlin Aircrew will join either 845 NAS or 846 NAS, thetwo front line Commando Merlin Squadrons at Yeovilton, where they will be at 5

THE JHC DELIVERING JOINT SUCCESS ON OPERATIONS 6 ISSUE 3, 2018 / LZDZ

Rear Admiral J Pentreath Commanding Officer Joint helicopter Command was 846 Naval Air squadron’s guest of honour at 28 Commando Wings Parade held at RNAS Yeovilton. 846 Naval Air Squadron is the Commando Helicopter Force’s (CHF) training squadron, which trains new helicopter pilots or converts existing helicopter pilots to fly the Merlin helicopter in CHF. It also trains existing Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel to become Aircrewmen in CHF’s Merlin and Wildcat helicopters.

days notice to deploy anywhere around the world. The origins of the CommandoHelicopter Force lie in the Naval ship to shore helicopter operations in the junglesassociated with the 1963 Malayan Conflict. As a result members of the Force areknown as “Junglies” and have built a proud heritage since that time. With thecurrent geopolitical instability around the world and the introduction of the newAircraft Carriers, course members will find themselves using their professionalexpertise, ‘Junglie cunning’ and flexibility, not only over the next few months butfor the rest of their Naval Careers.

LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 7VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK

Those presented awards were: RECIPIENTS OF FLYING BADGES

Pilots Lt Ben Lilley RNLt Micheal Plant RN

Aircrewmen LH Emil Conway LH Nathan Dennis LH Tom Doyle LH Sam Geere Sgt Dean Haddow RMSgt Ben Chamley

RECIPIENTS OF MERLIN CONVERSION QUALIFICATION

Pilots Capt Steven Bishop AAC Lt Gareth Wardle RN

Aircrewman LH Emil Conway receiving his Flying Badge

RAF Ensign Over Army HQWith the kind permission of the Stn Cdr and support from the Garrison Sgt Major, the Royal Air Force contingent was granted the rare privilege of flying their ensign over Army HQ on their 100th anniversary.

The simple but meaningful act of the hoisting and hauling ceremony was carried out by some of the most junior to Senior RAF personnel at Army HQ over a 2 week period.

At one stage the Field Army flagpole broke leaving the RAF ensign to flutter proudly and alone, despite several outrageous but good natured suggestions of foul play! A big thank you to the

Army and Navy personnel who played along with good grace and respect, responding smartly and respectfully to the whistle as we raised and lowered the ensign every day.

Pilot Capt Steven Bishop AAC receiving his award for successfully completing the Merlin Mk3 Conversion

OPERATIONS

8 ISSUE 3, 2018 / LZDZ THE JHC DELIVERING JOINT SUCCESS ON OPERATIONS

RAF 100CELEBRATIONSat RAF Andover, RAF Benson and RAF Odiham

PEOPLE

HQ JHC played host to distinguished and honourable guests at RAF Andover’s

Officers Mess for one night only. On 15 March 2018 the Officers

Mess at RAF Andover was reborn in recognition of the RAF’s centennial birthday on 1 April 2018. The 100-year experiment was placed under fashionable scrutiny for guests to enjoy, mock and banter in true interservice spirit and humour. The occasion was graced and honoured to host two senior RAF guests; AM Atha and AVM Cooper.

RAF Andover was a former RFC unit and housed many RAF units between wars. During World War II it was used by several operational flying units as well as the first British

Military unit to be equipped with helicopters. It was in 2009 the former airfield changed its name to Marlborough lines and became home to Army HQ.

With an abundance of parent Service guests in attendance the RAF 100 Dinner was both a privilege and fitting occasion to recognise the humble beginnings of the world’s first independent Air Force and acknowledge the combined effort and input from both the Royal Navy and the British Army to create the RAF as we know it today.

Three timely vignettes were interspersed throughout the evening to bring to life the RAF’s inception, notable operations, evolution through to what may have been, had the 100-year experiment played into the hands

of the critics. All made possible with the insightful creativity of Flt Lt Rich Green and the enthusiastic tri-service actors and contributions within HQ JHC including the cameo role from DComd JHC.

Credit is due to the The Band of the Corps of Royal Engineers

who seamlessly performed iconic RAF Anthems to accompany dinner and the kind generosity of the Old Sarum Aviation Museum for loaning several museum artefacts for the event to capture atmosphere and bring a marker in history alive.

Top Table: Top row: Gp Capt H Cormack, Gp Capt J Appleton, Air Cdr A Smith, Gp Capt L Turner. Bottom row: Brig M Keating, AM S Atha, R Adm J Pentreath, AVM D Cooper.


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2018 marks the centenary of the Royal Air Force, and in addition to the RAF’s comprehensive

schedule of events to mark the occasion, RAF Benson has numerous plans to celebrate through several local programmes. All of which we plan to deliver as well as managing the operational demands we are faced with; as such, the RAF 100 team have worked hard to develop a programme of events that meets both intentions.

Many key events will mark Benson’s celebrations, including our already successful 100 Faces developed by our 3 very talented RAF Photographers. The project has aimed to highlight individuals, show diversity, inspire future generations, but more importantly, to celebrate

the current Air Force and the quite professionalism shown by all who work here. 100 portraits were released over the 100 days leading up to the centenary on 1st April 2018, with the Station Commander’s portrait concluding the project. Gaining huge reach across Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, it has also been featured in the British Institute of Professional Photography magazine.

As well as our extensive School Engagement Programme, our Families’ Day, Youth Muster and a CO’s Cup Sports Day will all have a dedicated RAF100 theme.

The School Engagement Programme will involve visits to several schools to increase awareness of the RAF, setting a poem competition for Primary School Children and a Paint-a-

Tile Competition for Secondary School Art Students. The winners of these 2 projects will win a visit to RAF Benson for the Day.

In addition to these main events we have hosted an RAF 100 inspired Cadet Easter Camp, a STEM Race for the Line competition, and will soon run a CAMO day with our local schools.

One of the most important things we can do for young children is to teach them how to think and not what to think. A competition that fits in seamlessly with the RAF 100 themes; Commemorate, Celebrate and Inspire, Race for the Line Season 3 was an opportunity for RAF Benson to encourage children to be imaginative, innovative and creative.

Volunteers from RAF Benson visited 7 schools in our local community to race the Rocket Cars the students had engineered from a block of foam, with some reaching speeds as high as 30.7 ms-1 (68.7 mph) and some as low as 7.6 ms-1 (17 mph).

With the Regional Final held at RAF Benson, students had

the opportunity re-engineer new Rocket Cars based off the analysis of their previous cars performance. While it was clear that each car was unique and brilliant in its own way, more importantly, the students were ecstatic witnessing their creations speeding along the race track in the Hangar.

Ultimately, Race for Line encourages the next generation to pursue a career within Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM), whether it be in the military or industry. Foremost, the most essential part about Race for the Line is that it provided RAF Benson with an opportunity to give back and engage with our local community through such a historical year.

2018 has proven to be and still promises to be an eventful year so far, and RAF Benson is a unit worth celebrating - we look forward to your involvement, support and enjoyment over the next year!


CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

With RAF100 fast approaching back in September 2017, many

requests were being made for events in the local community. One of the most important came from the Mayor’s Office in Basingstoke. Basingstoke has lived with the Chinook Force on its doorstep for many years and has become extremely proud of their association with the Chinook Force and RAF Odiham as a whole.

So when they invited the station to celebrate RAF100 with them it was a wonderful opportunity to show the people of Basingstoke how much their support over the years has been appreciated and to fully involve them in the RAF100 occasion.

Along with the Basingstoke Branch of the Royal Air Forces Association, it quickly became clear that as far as the town was concerned, they were a blank canvas, willing to support our celebrations in

any way that they could.Plans were soon drawn up for

a parade through London Road, ending at War Memorial Park for a ceremony to commemorate this grand occasion. A fly past was organised from 18 (B) Sqn and the icing on the cake was when we were told that the Central Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment would be able to attend – a really exciting addition considering their extremely busy schedule this particular year!

Parade practices were soon underway under the watchful eye of the Parade Marshal, FS Palmer, and Odiham’s two qualified Drill Instructors, Sgt Williams and Cpl Farrington.

The final practice was observed by the Station Commander and the SWO, both of whom were impressed by the standard of drill achieved.

The one factor that caused everyone to hold their breath was, of course, the weather. Fortunately, the Met Office pulled a few strings and ensured a glorious sunny day for us. The parade consisted of RAF Odiham personnel, as well as a flight of veterans (showing that drill is a skill you never lose completely), as well as the Air Cadets to represent the future of the RAF. After setting off at 10:40 from the bottom end of London Road, the parade arrived in War

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PEOPLE


Memorial Park precisely on time where they were greeted by a crowd of approximately 500 people. A wonderful turnout from Basingstoke to show their appreciation for the event. The ceremony started with a perfectly timed flypast and then the commemoration of RAF100 began under the proud and watchful eye of numerous dignitaries, including the Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Air Marshal Sir Roger Austin (Rtd)

and the Mayor of Basingstoke.Once the parade and

ceremony were complete, the public had the opportunity to then engage up close with some of our personnel by way of some demonstration stands that had been set up in the park itself. An early morning working party had toiled through the morning to setup the area before the ceremony began and gave the public the chance to see some of the equipment used in

various areas of the modern RAF including the latest flying safety equipment and various weapons in use by the RAF Regiment.

Towards the end of the afternoon, the RAF Odiham Military Wives Choir provided their vocals to sing the occasion

out and show that RAF100 is not only about celebrating those in uniform, but also the families who support us along the way.

The day was a great success, with the public showing their deep appreciation for RAF100 and for RAF Odiham in particular. It was a day that the station can look back on with immense pride.

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PEOPLE

RAF 100BATON RELAY

ON 1ST APRIL, ONE HUNDRED YEARS SINCE THE FORMATION OF THE ROYAL AIR FORCE, A SPECIALLY DESIGNED BATON SET OFF ON A JOURNEY AROUND THE UK AND SIGNIFICANT LOCATIONS ABROAD. The relay served the important purpose of commemorating past and present individuals who have given so much to the RAF by visiting locations, such as RAF Odiham, that have been intrinsically linked to military operations for many years.

Starting at the Royal Courts of Justice and lasting 100 days, the relay featured people from across the RAF, the communities we serve and past members. The baton, which features the RAF crest and RAF100 logo, was designed by young RAF recruits

using materials that symbolise aircraft construction through the ages. Each baton carrier had just a start and end point but the method of transportation was left down to each individual or team.

The Baton was delivered to RAF Odiham by the RAF Cycling

Team on 8th April 2018. Despite the rainy weather, there was a great turn out from local families who gathered to support the cyclists as they arrived with the baton. All those present had the opportunity to have pictures with the baton to commemorate


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the day and celebrate the baton’s journey so far.

RAF Odiham were supported throughout the day by 15 Air Cadets from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wing and RAF personnel from Frimley Park who provided a guard of honour for the arrival of the baton. Following the arrival, everyone in the guard of honour took part in a very competitive team relay on the airfield using two mini replica batons with ‘Team Chinook’ being crowned victorious. Finally, the baton was delivered to the Station Commander in SHFHQ where it remained overnight.

It was an early start for RAF Odiham’s Boxing Club on 9th April who collected the baton from the Station Commander to take on the next leg of the journey. The Club took on the task of running the 7 mile distance from RAF Odiham to Church Crookham in full boxing gear to safely deliver the baton to the RAF Odiham’s Saddle Club stables. The Saddle Club mounted their steeds and completed RAF Odiham’s involvement in the RAF100 Baton Relay by riding cross country to Aldershot Camp.

Across both days the enthusiasm shown by the Air Cadets, Boxing Club, Saddle Club and personnel from Frimley Park was evident and their participation was crucial to the success of the RAF100 Baton Relay as a whole.

LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 13

HEADING


LESSONS CORNER

Welcome once again to lessons corner, this edition focusses on DLIMS

– the Defence Lessons Identified Management System. Many of the readers of LZDZ will be familiar with ASIMS and the DASOR process, likely using it on a regular basis, well DLIMS has no relation to ASIMS at all..! In fact is nothing like it and the only thing that they

EVERYONE WITH AN ACCOUNT HAS THE SAME HOME SCREEN:

THE ‘ADVANCED SEARCH’ FACILITY IS LOCATED TOP LEFT OF THE HOME SCREEN:

Lessons on DLIMS – the Defence Lessons Identified Management System

have in common is that they are both ‘management systems.’

A couple of key facts regarding DLIMS that everyone should be aware:• It is the tool used by the

whole of Defence for the management of lessons.

• It isn’t particularly well supported – the annual budget to maintain / update the system is around £20,000.

• JHC has its own domain on DLIMS. This has been in place for over 7 years and as a result we now have a corporate knowledge base / library of over 2300 lessons and observations.

• It’s simple to use – all members of JHC (anyone with a Dii / MODNET account) can access it at the following address: https://

dlims.ahe.r.mil.uk/webpages/parentview.aspx. (must be opened via Google Chrome).

USING DLIMS AS A SEARCH TOOLOne of the most useful functions of DLIMS is its utility as a search tool, the search tool can be used by anyone (at the website address above) as shown in the following screenshots:


OTHER USES FOR DLIMS Of course, DLIMS isn’t just a library that can be used for conducting searches. To enable greater functionality for the user and to add / edit / update lessons a DLIMS account is required – accounts can be granted through the HQ JHC Lessons Staff and requests should be made through Lt Col Stephen James (JHC SO1 Doctrine).

Regular readers of lessons corner will be familiar with the two JHC Command Instructions that detail our lessons process (J7/CI/05: Lessons management and exploitation, J7/CI/030: Guidance on JHC post operation

/ exercise report / presentation). DLIMs guidance is contained within J7/CI/05 which states that the JHC DLIMS domain is “used to record the development / progress of all JHC lessons.” In practice, on completion of every major exercise or operation the commanding JHC unit / Avn TF should submit a PxR / PoR (in accordance with J7/CI/030), a post exercise / operation presentation and Military Judgement Panel (MJP) will follow up to 8 weeks after the exercise / operation has taken place. At the MJP, all of the LIs / observations raised within the PxR/PoR and detailed during the presentation will be

ONCE THE ‘ADVANCED SEARCH’ HAS BEEN SELECTED, THE SCREEN BELOW WILL APPEAR WHICH IS RELATIVELY SELF-EXPLANATORY:

BE AS SPECIFIC AS POSSIBLE, FOR EXAMPLE I ENTERED A SIMPLE SEARCH FOR ‘HLS’ AND RECEIVED 165 ‘HITS’, AS SHOWN BELOW:

discussed. Every item raised from every exercise / operation will be entered onto DLIMs by the HQ JHC Lessons staff – creating additional records for the corporate library. But importantly, any lessons that are adopted at the MJP will be worked to resolution through the use of DLIMS – individuals who are responsible for making changes / completing actions need to track and update progress via DLIMS, thus making DLIMS the information management tool from which an issue raised from an operation or exercise is worked / developed and ultimately resolved. In simple terms, DLIMS becomes the area

where any actions carried out / changes introduced to resolve a lesson are logged and tracked.

JHC LESSONS / USE OF DLIMS GOING FORWARDThe HQ JHC Lessons staff are continually striving to improve our lessons process and broaden the understanding and use of DLIMS amongst forces. If you have any questions at all regarding DLIMS or JHC Lessons please direct them to the HQ JHC Lessons staff, we will be in touch with force and unit HQs in the near future to discuss our lessons process going forward so don’t be surprised if you hear from us first.

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK

LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 15

”AND SO SAID GUTO BEBB MINISTER FOR DEFENCE PROCUREMENT WHEN HE VISITED CHF AT RNAS YEOVILTON ON THE 24TH MAY. He announced the delivery of the first of a fleet of new helicopters designed for Royal Marines aircraft carrier operations. The Commando Merlin (Cdo Me) Mk4, has been upgraded to a modernised, marinised, faster and more powerful aircraft than its predecessor. The Minister said:

“This new version of the Merlin will provide an essential bridge between sea and land for our Marines operating from ships, including our brand-new aircraft carriers. This fleet will deliver troops and supplies to the centre of the action, be that a conflict zone or the site of a humanitarian disaster, as well as providing search and rescue cover”.

The event saw the unveiling of the first Cdo Me MK4 in a blaze of light, smoke and sound whilst Royal Marines Commandos exited the rear ramp before the head and tail folded.

BackgroundCHF’s Merlin HC3/3A fleet is currently in the process of upgrade under the Merlin Life Sustainment Programme (MLSP). This will see all 25 aircraft upgraded to HC4/4A standard.

The aircraft is fully optimised for ship operations with features that include automatic main rotor blade and tail folding, uprated undercarriage and enhanced avionics and cockpit features which were developed for the Royal Navy’s Merlin HM2 helicopter. Folded, four Cdo Me will sit in the footprint of one Chinook helicopter. The aircraft additionally features an upgraded self-protection system, tactical processor, and is fitted capable of full instrument procedures to allow global self-deployments through controlled airspace. The aircraft has received the latest generation Defensive Aids System which can identify hostile weapons systems rapidly and can initiate appropriate tactics and countermeasures. The modifications are designed to ensure it can now operate from sea including on the UK’s new aircraft carrier,

HMS Queen Elizabeth. Each of CHF’s Merlin

squadrons has a defined role. 845 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) and 846 NAS will both use the Cdo Me MK4 for amphibious transport of troops and supplies for 3 Commando Brigade.

845 NAS is CHF’s High Readiness Squadron for contingency. This key role is necessary to support the Maritime Task Group (MTG) going forward following the introduction of the UK’s new generation of aircraft carriers.

CHF has assessed what the future operating environment is and where the threats are likely to come from and have tied that in with the future Commando forces and the new carriers that are coming into service. In addition to the tactical movement

of troops, providing underslung load lifts and the other vertical replenishment capability we provide, the question CHF asked the MTG and Defence is what else do they need CHF to do? Looking at this in detail, it was quite clear the MTG needed Support Helicopters (SH) to support them internally within the task group and between the task group and shore because the MTG will spend a lot time away from shore because of force protection issues; avoiding aggressor missile systems etcetera. They need an aircraft with endurance which the Merlin has with over 3.5 hours of fuel (standard range without external tanks is 576 miles (927 kms)). The Cdo Me HC4 is a tactical aircraft, fully marinised and it is strategic in that CO CHF can self-deploy the aircraft from Somerset in Yeovilton to Cyprus in less than 36 hours. The Cdo Me can also be loaded into the back of a C-17 in approximately 18 hours, and can then be flown anywhere in the world.


“The Commando Merlin MK4 Has Arrived

CAPABILITY

Much attention has been focussed on the aircraft carrier and the F-35Bs operating from their decks with scant thought for the integral part that CHF Cdo Me HC4s will play in their

”“The Commando Merlin (Cdo Me) Mk4, has been upgraded to a modernised, marinised, faster and more powerful

aircraft than its predecessor.

operation. CHF continue to work up packages to support both entities in the future. If for example the unfortunate happens and a rotary or fixed wing aircraft goes down ashore in a threat

environment or a fast jet pilot has to eject, there is a requirement for some methodology for recovery and CHF has a Joint Personnel Recovery (JPR) capability which it is training for. The Merlin is an exceptional aircraft for this role with its ramp, three light General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG), ballistic protection, advanced Defensive Aids Suite (DAS), tactical processors, speeds in excess of 160 knots and highly trained crews specialised in the low level

flying environment. There are also systems on board that are secure, can direction find enabling crews to pick up personnel from precise ground locations. Going forward CHF will integrate with F-35s and other fixed wing assets that are in the overhead protecting us. It is essential that CHF maintain force protection in this combined operational environment. That threat is very real and in the past the UK has had to use USAF Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) for the tactical recovery


CONTINUED >>>

IMAGEScourtesy of Mark Bryan, Kevin Willis,Simon Prior (Leonardo)


of personnel and aircraft. CHF is now developing its own independent CSAR capability.

It is important to note that there is a clear distinction between the SAR provided by civilian agencies and that which will be specifically provided by CHF when deployed aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth in a maritime threat environment. It is a niche role that CHF aircrew have trained for under day/night conditions (using NVGs) ahead of 845 NAS deployment aboard the carrier in August 2018 with three Commando Merlin HC4s.

846 NAS is responsible for UK Maritime Counter Terrorism (MCT) and Operational Conversion Flight (OCF) and going with a number of aircraft maintained on alert for UK Special Forces MCT tasking.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

CAPABILITY

CAPABILITY

LZDZ ISSUE 3, 2018 / 19THE JHC DELIVERING JOINT SUCCESS ON OPERATIONS

Designing A Display Masterpiece

Helmets adorned with custom designs are a relatively common thing to behold in the world of military aviation, especially in the display world, but few come in as elaborate a form as the 2018 Chinook Display helmets and even less are replicated seven times!

T he Chinook Display crews have for many years flown with painted helmets but these have

tended to be simple in nature and consisting of stripes of the British National or Squadron colours. For the RAF100 season the team felt that the time was right to produce something quite staggering, not only to celebrate the milestone but also to showcase the talents

directing what markings were to be applied to a Chinook airframe for RAF100 the team turned their attention towards celebrating with their helmets…and what a result!

RAF Odiham’s Station Commander, Group Captain Lee Turner, has been incredibly supportive of the display team since he and 27 Squadron selected the crew late last year. When shown the design for the helmets

“As and ex-RAF serviceman, to be involved in such a significant milestone as the RAF100 display has been a real honour. This project was one of the biggest challenges I’ve undertaken to-date, due to the size and intricacy of the task. However I could see right from the start that this was going to be very rewarding for me personally. I’ve always relished being challenged and to work along side Flight Lieutenant Andy Donovan again, who has led us to produce four huge paint designs on Odiham-based aircraft in recent years, I knew it was a team to make this a memorable event. The icing on the cake was being asked to carry out such a special design on his crew’s helmets for each member of the prestigious display team!”– Mr James Littlejohn

The helmet was designed by team co-pilot Flt Lt Andy Donovan and incorporates the eagle from the Royal Air Force crest as it’s biggest feature. Amazingly, when you stand close to it you realise that it’s white details are further embellished with black shadows behind which is quite beautiful but must have been incredibly fiddly to do once, let alone seven times! So why seven? As we know there are three pilots and three crewmen qualified on the display routine but another helmet has been painstakingly crafted for this year’s display manager; the intent being that it will be made available for people to view at air shows whenever the team is able to achieve a ground footprint.Flt Lt Donovan

”“They certainly look impressive in photos but up-close they really are a sight to

behold. James Littlejohn is certainly pleased with how they have turned out.

of RAF Odiham personnel in delivering projects of this nature. The Station has abundant amounts of experience in the field of decorating aircraft to celebrate big anniversaries in recent years but with an off-Station committee

he gave the project his backing and that paved the way for 27’s safety equipment specialists to start stripping down the electronics from redundant Mk4 helmets ready for the paint bay to begin their work. Luckily, with

upgraded helmets now arriving in service at Odiham, there was an excess stock of the older type which enabled the project.

RAF Odiham’s Station Commander, Group Captain Lee Turner, has been incredibly supportive of the display team since he and 27 Squadron selected the crew late last year. When shown the design for the helmets he gave the project his backing and that paved the way for 27’s safety equipment specialists to start stripping down the electronics from redundant Mk4 helmets ready for the paint bay to begin their work. Luckily, with upgraded helmets now arriving in service at Odiham, there was an excess stock of the older type which enabled the project.

Leading the paint bay team at Odiham is Mr James Littlejohn, who learned his trade in the days when the RAF had its own painters and finishers. Now contracted out to Serco, the facility at Odiham is a busy one so James agreed to assist the team in his own spare time. It was December 2017 when the helmets arrived into the bay, making it a 6-month project from start to finish! Asking James about the RAF100 year, he was clearly keen to play his part.

THE JOINT HELICOPTER SUPPORT SQUADRON CONTINUES TO OPERATE ACROSS THE UK AND THE WORLD SUPPORTING BOTH EXERCISES AND OPERATIONS FOR A VARIETY OF UNITS. Heli Handling Teams are currently deployed in the United States of America facilitating Ex IMPERIAL ZEPHYR, the Falklands Islands, facilitating all underslung capability for the island; and another team has also recently returned from a capability demonstration at the Berlin Airshow.

The MAOT Leaders have also been busy revalidate UK and landing sites, in order to maintain JHC operational capability. The Sqn has also supported the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) LIVEX on Salisbury Plain Training Area, which culminated in a capability display in front of the secretary of State for Defence, Chief of the General Staff and other assorted dignitaries form both the UK and abroad. Within the UK the Sqn has continued to maintain

a National Standby team which deployed on Op BOOMSTER in Carlisle loading CH47s from Odiham with essentials including fuel and food, before assisting the Police with liaison between the isolated locals and the Royal Marines deployed to deliver the supplies on the ground.

Op BOOMSTERIn early March the UK experienced the most significant spell of snow and low temperatures since December 2010, rending some villages in Cumbria isolated and short of food and fuel. On March 4th the JHSS National Standby team (sat at 2hrs NTM) was mobilised and met the RAF Odiham Chinooks at Carlisle Airport to load essential supplies. Both Army

and RAF personnel assisted the Royal Marines in the delivery of these supplies, liaising with local police and the stranded villagers to ensure everyone remained safe during the storm.

BFSAIJHSS has been integral in the UK Armed Forces commitment in the South Atlantic. At a landowners request, the military has demonstrated a tri-service capability to show how disparate elements can come together to achieve. JHSS operated as embarked forces on board HMS CLYDE to rig sections of a roof in seven-thousand kilogram nets, a task that is no easy feat as each net is 7.6m x 7.6m and weighs over 100kgs. This was an “unconventional load” and required the team to be on top of all their TTPs and use all their professional nous. Cpl Magee rallied his team and moved the roof from the sea to Sea Lion Island, displaying the Sqn’s central position in the forces deployed in the area. MAOT-Ls were requested by the Commanding Officer 905 Sqn (Expeditionary Air Wing) to revalidate all of the helicopter landing sites to enable operations to continue. This essential task was completed with alacrity and with no adverse effects on operational output.

Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) – RAF Benson

CH47 lifting Jackal 2 in

Keevil Airfield on the JEF LIVEX

CH47 lifting the 105 Light

Gun in West Freugh

JHSS Loading a CH47 with supplies

for those isolated by snow in Cumbria

CAPABILITY


Berlin AirshowThe Squadron supported 27 Squadron’s role demonstration at the Berlin Airshow at short notice, deploying a team to rig specialist loads and allow the CH47 to show off its triple hook capability. Cpl Goral led his team to achieve a shining performance in front of an eager crowd and successfully demonstrated the CH47s capabilities.

Ex IMPERIAL ZEPHYRTwo JHSS MAOT-Ls deployed as part of the JHC advance party to in order to ratify the HLS directory for Southern California and Arizona. All flying training makes use of land which falls within USMC ranges or belongs to the US Bureau of Land Management. Before the aircraft begin flying it is necessary to liaise with the US authorities to ensure that sites are still available before visiting each site to ensure that they are suitable and safe. Many of the sites are easily accessible by air, but due to the nature of the desert they can be very difficult to access over land this can make the ratification process rather time consuming. In addition to the MAOT-Ls, a Heli Handling Team continues to be instrumental to the Puma Force Desert Environmental

Training, working tirelessly to deliver support to aviation tasks.

Joint Expeditionary Force Live Exercise 2018The Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) Live Exercise is a multi-national, tri-service exercise that takes place across the UK. 3 Commando Brigade and 16 Air Assault Brigade commanded the UK forces, whilst troops from Denmark, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden and Estonia were embedded within the brigades. JHSS deployed in support of the Aviation Task Forces, with one team each led by a MAOT-L embedding with each brigade, operating with Apache, Chinook, Puma and Wildcat helicopters. The teams were integral in moving stores to the exercising troops and facilitating troop movements for assaults. Of note, Cpl K Wakeham and his team rigged engineering bridging equipment for 33 Sqn to lift, proving the Pumas capability to lift over 1.8 tonnes and fly it forward to ensure natural features do not impede the advancing troops. MAOT-Ls were employed in their recce role, siting HLSs for aviation assaults and areas for FOBs to move to when the scenario dictated. The exercise ended with a demonstration

day, and JHSS supported this by briefing VVIPs in London, marshalling them to the waiting aircraft and receiving them on the other end in SPTA where they managed the HLS.

Op CABRITOp CABRIT is the NATO enhanced Forward Presence in Estonia, and in April Wildcat helicopters from 1 Regt AAC deployed as the first UK aviation asset in the area. JHSS were requested to deploy one MAOT-L in order to create a HLS Directory to ensure safe operation across the country. Flt Lt Armstrong joined 661 Squadron AAC and worked with their groundcrew and pilots to select and ratify HLSs in direct support of both UK and NATO operations.

RAF 100 SupportJHSS supported the Puma force’s RAF 100 outreach by reconnoitring local schools and managing the HLSs as Pumas landed. This community engagement was at the forefront of the station’s RAF 100 celebrations, and JHSS were proud to be involved as part of Team Benson.

Commendations Airtpr Scrivens received his Advanced Apprenticeship in Aviation Operations on the Ground from the Chief of Staff Wing Commander Tandy this month, a culmination of his hard work. To achieve this level 3 qualification he demonstrated both practical competence and technical knowledge in his trade within the Corps. Additionally, LCpl Bodle received the award for the best graduate of the apprenticeship programme from across the AAC, winning an iPad. This award is a demonstration of his dedication to his role as a JNCO, as he not only worked tirelessly to complete his own apprenticeship but then proceeded to use his experience to mentor and develop junior Airtroopers. Even whilst working in a busy operational environment he took time to help others, guiding them and checking their work before it was submitted to the Babcock, the apprenticeship provider. He is an excellent ambassador and champion for the scheme, and has earned this prize. Both are congratulated wholeheartedly.

WgCdr Tandy presenting AirTpr Scrivens

with his Aviation Apprenticeship Award

WgCdr Tandy presenting LCpl Bodle

with his AAC Apprenticeship Award


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847 NAS - Jeanne D’Arc Deployment - May 18 A Snapshot from the Pacific from Lt Olly Leisk RN

FS DIXMUDE departed the port of Darwin on 19 May just before midday en route to its next

destination. 847 NAS remain on board having just completed the pre-planned changeover of personnel. This includes a new Detachment Commander, Maj Rich Moore and a new Ops officer, Lt Dan Burnett. Maj Brett Collins USMC is also on board as the detachment XO.

Darwin Navigation Exercise Once back at sea, 847 wasted no time in getting back into flying operations. The first evolution was a NAVEX over the outback of Australia’s Northern Territory in formation with the Alouette 3 helicopter from FS DIXMUDE. 847 NAS aircrew have been briefing with and operating alongside the Alouette crews for the past

was not a technique that they use – they were impressed.

As soon as the 847 NAS aircrew were qualified, their services were required in an ammunition VERTREP from the FS DIXMUDE to the FS SURCOUF on Friday 25 May. The sortie was planned to take three hours to carry 16 loads of 500kg loads of ammunition between the two ships. The task was completed

”

“It was my first time operating with the British detachment. It was interesting

to work alongside their procedures which I believe worked well. It was also

very interesting to have two aircraft of two very different generations

flying together. The Alouette I fly is 53 years old and the first flight of

the Alouette 3 was in 1959. A good contrast of the old and the very new.

– LV Henri, Alouette Pilot on board FS DIXMUDE

”“The NAVEX was a fantastic opportunity

to experience the outback we had seen from the ground from the air. It was also

a real pleasure to be working closely with the French Alouette. It also allowed

us to practice some recce pilot skills on the local crocodile population.

– Lt Paul Melling, Detachment Training Officer

few months however, this is the first time they have operated together. The Commando Wildcat led the formation flown by Lt

main priority being to get them all qualified to operate from the FS DIXMUDE as well as provide SAR cover. To this end,

Paul Melling and Lt Oliver Leisk with POACMN Kieron Lovett as the aircrewman. The formation NAVEX was a great opportunity for the Royal Navy crews to work together with the sole French aviation asset on board. Winch Training/VertrepThe new aircrew on board hit the ground running with the

a number of VERTREP, winching, boat transfers, SAR and Hi Lines training sorties were conducted with the DIXMUDE and her escort frigate, FS SURCOUF. Hi Lines is a specific skill that prepares crews to rescue stranded sailors from small vessels, which they could not safely winch to – such as yachts or oil rigs with unusable helipads. The French Alouette crew found this technique interesting as it

Commando Wildcat lifting with the Alouette 3 from FS DIXMUDE

Commando Wildcat over the northern Australian plain as seen from the French Alouette


Testing the Wildcat’s EO sensor to ID some local wildlife!

Load team waits as the Wildcat positions over the ammunition load.

CAPABILITY

”

in less than two hours with all loads transported as requested. The French command were very appreciative of the help from 847 NAS as well as the efficiency with which it was carried out. This allowed them to minimize any headway that would have been lost by following a flying course.


Load team positioning to lift a second load after dropping off another.

Swimming CompetitionWednesday 23 May marked the French ‘Navy Day’. This is similar to the British military’s Armed Forces Day. Across the French fleet, all crews participate in some form of sporting competition. This year FS DIXMUDE held a swimming competition in their well deck. 847 NAS bolstered the ranks of the aviation department. Teams

had two members swimming at one time. They would complete two 50m lengths of the well deck and then tap in the next two from their team. However, the next two-person team could not start swimming until both from the previous team had finished their swim. This

made the competition as much of a team exercise as well as a competitive one. 847 NAS finished a commendable third out of five departments – coming only 4-5 meters behind the team that took second place. Everyone in the detachment got involved, with many volunteering to do multiple swims after the aviation department struggled to fill the whole team sheet.

Ship’s company receives a brief on the rules for the swimming competition. The aviation department, including 847, can be seen just to the left of Spot 5.

The race begins!

PEOPLE

To mark RAF 100 celebrations, Tactical Supply Wing (TSW) based at MOD Stafford

Beacon Barracks, arranged for the tail of the Hawker Siddeley Harrier GR3 gate guard to be repainted with an RAF 100 and TSW crest themed livery.

It is important to remember that the Harrier stood proudly as gate guard for RAF Stafford from 1993 until 31 March 2006 when RAF Stafford became MOD Stafford. Tail number XZ 987 itself came into service on 9 September 1981 with 3 sqn at RAF Gutersloh, Germany. It was then sent to Belize on 27 July 1990. In 1992 XZ 987 suffered a wheels up landing in Belize and subsequently made its way back to the UK for repairs. Deemed irreparable it was sent to RAF Stafford to become a gate guard.

RAF Stafford itself was founded in September 1939; just as war was declared, when the treasury authorised the purchase of 362 acres of land just outside the town of Stafford. No 16 Maintenance Support Unit was formed on 1 December 1939 amidst strong pressure to bring RAF Stafford to operational status quickly. It was then not until 1952 that RAF Stafford was granted its Unit Badge.

TSW which was formed at RAF Stafford in 1970, became operational in 1971 and remains the only RAF unit at MOD Stafford. The Harrier’s bright red tail bearing TSWs’ crest is a fitting tribute as part of RAF 100 celebrations and to remember the Station’s RAF heritage.

Plt Off Rosalind Charles – TSW Holding Officer

RAF 100 AT RAF STAFFORD

661 Sqn – Support to Op CABRIT‘The story so far’It has been said that one of

the greatest challenges of leadership is when you are required to take people on a

journey to a destination that is not entirely known, via a route that has not been travelled before. The deployment of 661 Sqn in support of Op CABRIT has been one such challenge. This was to be the first operational deployment of the Army’s Wildcat Reconnaissance Helicopters (RH) and the first UK aviation deployed in the region drawing direct comparisons with the reconnaissance ethos of exploration associated with the platform itself. Op CABRIT is the NATO Enhanced Forward Presence (eFP) mission in Estonia which was established following the NATO Summit in Warsaw in July 2016. This has seen the deployment of a multinational eFP Battlegroup (BG) to provide a proportionate, defensive and combat capable force to deter any potential hostile activity in the region. It was to support this commitment that in November 2017 it was agreed that Wildcat RH would be deployed to Estonia in 2018.

Preparations began in earnest for the deployment as we hurtled

towards the end of 2017. As a squadron that had very recently been held at high readiness and made preparations for, but not deployed on, Op RUMEN (support to disaster relief in the Caribbean), the squadron was well placed to be able to plan and deliver the Op CABRIT deployment. The priority was to understand the nature of the task and the environment that we would be operating in. A small recce party from ARF HQ and 1AAC were dispatched to Estonia in January to brave the -20 degree wind chill and bring back the information required to set the wheels in motion for the deployment. This was made all the more easy by the eFP HQ in country and the extremely accommodating Estonian Air Force whose representative, Capt Armin Mau, had completed flying training at Middle Wallop and served in 9 Regt Army Air Corps prior to returning to Estonia. Options identified, the process of delivering the preferred solution was initiated: this was to see the squadron based out of Amari Air Base with a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Tapa alongside the eFP Battlegroup. Back in the UK the focus was on preparing the

squadron for its deployment. This saw a comprehensive programme of flying and ground training serials which culminated in Exercise MAPLE STRIKE. Deploying to Kirkudbright training area and subsequently West Freugh, the squadron was able to complete air to ground gunnery, tactical flying in simulated high threat environments and mission specific training. Meanwhile the engineering and logistical preparations were relentless in the face of tight timelines but, with the support of the Regiment as the main effort, the requirements were met both in the UK and in Theatre.

A key aspect to 661 Squadron’s preparations was addressing the conceptual component of deploying to Estonia in support of the eFP mission. There is no historical precedent or doctrinal parallel that is a neat fit but what was clear is that this seemingly small scale contribution had strategic ripples’ well beyond its physical boundaries. With this in mind the squadron made every effort to immerse itself in the more cerebral aspects of preparation which included numerous briefs on Estonian history, operating in the Baltics and exposure to internet and print media on current issues in the region. A Permanent Joint Headquarters (PJHQ) led all ranks briefing day served to provide the most up to date thinking and was made all the more realistic by the ‘beast from the east’ snow storm that had descended on central Somerset. One aspect that served to focus the mind on the deployment was the increasing importance being placed on strategic communications and in particular the messaging surrounding the deployment of Wildcat RH to support Op CABRIT. From an article in Soldier Magazine to interviews and articles pushed out through social media, the coverage for the deployment was gaining significant momentum both in anticipation of the aircraft

arrival in Estonia and excitement surrounding the capability itself.

With preparations complete, the squadron started to deploy in early April. An advance party of enablers were shortly followed by the main elements of manpower by air and equipment by sea to establish the foothold at Amari Air Base. A small road party of REME engineers and essential maintenance equipment set off a day ahead of the air party to provide support en route. On 11 April the air party consisting of 4 Wildcat RH and crews departed RNAS Yeovilton bound for the Baltics. Despite a blanket of low cloud across southern England the aircraft made it across the Channel but then had to divert due to weather into Gilze-Rijen, a Dutch military air base. The relief at getting out of the UK in a window of opportunity was tempered by the fact we found ourselves alongside Dutch helicopter crews sitting out the bad weather. However, we were hugely supported by the Dutch military who serviced all of our needs, only too happy to help a fellow NATO military in need. This would be a common theme of all the NATO bases that we routed through. The following day saw the aircraft lift for their onward journey to Holzdorf in Germany whilst the engineers, having stopped in Holland, had to push on to the next stop by road to marry up with the aircraft. That night all elements had made it to the ex-Red Army base approximately an hour from Berlin. Arriving a day later than planned, there was significant pressure to get out of the base before it closed behind us for 3 days. It was to be the longest day which saw us fly through Poland, Lithuania and into Latvia for our next stop at Lielvarde air base. With one aircraft suffering a technical problem we had to remain for 48 hours to await a spare to be driven down from Estonia. This gave us the time to meet with the 1st US Air Cavalry based at Lielvarde with 5 UH-60 Blackhawks and to


661 Sqn Wildcat Helicopters lined up at Amari Airbase, Estonia - ready for another day of tasking in support of Op CABRIT

OPERATIONS

visits and capability briefings there was a very pressing need to engage with the Estonians and our other NATO counterparts on the first major serial of the deployment – Exercise SIIL.

Literally translated as HEDGEHOG, SIIL is a major NATO exercise simulating a state incursion into Estonia which leads to the triggering of the Estonian national defence plan as the first step on the road towards full NATO Article 5 intervention. In Estonian terms, the hedgehog analogy is quite intentional – representing a small spiny mammal that is vulnerable but which, if attacked, is able to leave its predator with a painful taste in its mouth. This exercise saw over 18,000 troops consisting of Estonian military and a dozen NATO countries participating in a total mobilisation scenario leading to Brigade on Brigade war fighting played out across a third of the country. Taking place amongst the Estonian population, the amount of military hardware on display was truly impressive.

Towns became battlegrounds and highways were given over to obstacles whilst tanks cleared major urban centres in a total war scenario. It was against this back drop that 661 Sqn had its first real opportunity to deliver RH capability in a near-operational context. Deploying to Tartu in the

conduct joint planning for later in the deployment. With this brief interlude complete the aircraft completed their 1400NM journey, flying the short hop into Estonia to join the rest of the squadron.The squadron was quick to establish itself with all elements setting up their technical, working and domestic areas and routines swiftly. The aircrew conducted their Theatre Familiarisation package whilst the ground crew generated the Forward Refuel Point (FRP) capability at Tapa barracks alongside the eFP BG. Ahead of schedule by 5 days, the squadron was declared fully operational and able to deliver its first tasks in support of Exercise FURIOUS HAMMER; a 1st Estonian Brigade and NATO eFP BG live fire exercise in Latvia. Meanwhile, the interest in the arrival of British helicopters from both media and Senior Officials was significant. In the first week the squadron had a personal visit from Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Estonia accompanied by Comd Op CABRIT and we hosted journalists from the leading media outlets of Estonia. It was clear from the outset that the focus on the squadron deployment was going to be far more than on the training and integration conducted with our NATO counterparts. Despite the frenetic pace of tasking dispersed with

south of the country to simulate projecting towards the front line, the squadron provided the full spectrum of Strike, Coordination and reconnaissance (SCaR) and command missions in support of the troops on the ground in a complex and contested air environment. Working alongside the Estonian Air Force and US Army Aviation, we conducted joint missions into an intensely kinetic and fast moving battle space – the learning curve was steep but the rewards were tangible. In addition, the high profile of the aircraft being in theatre meant that the squadron had the honour of flying the Estonian President, Prime Minister and Head of Defence all of whom praised and publicised personally, through social media, the outstanding support being provided. The exercise culminated with the Head of Defence airborne using a Wildcat RH to direct the final battle to take Valga, a town with a population of c.14,000.

Exercise SIIL proved to be a truly unique experience for all of the squadron elements and an immense test and vindication of the RH capability.

Returning to Amari Air Base, the squadron has had little time to reconstitute in the face of a busy tasking programme. Supporting training activity with Estonian and NATO troops and air forces, in addition to integration with our own British Military units in the form of the eFP BG has generated a complex schedule of varied tasking. Further significant exercise opportunities are programmed for later in the deployment and these continue to be developed and shaped to maximise the potential for appropriate Wildcat RH support. The opportunities are immense and 661 Sqn will continue to explore routes not travelled before towards a destination that, whilst still not entirely known, is becoming clearer as time goes on.

Wildcats in formation flying a mission in Estonia as part of the NATO Battlegroup on

Ex SIIL (Estonian for ‘Hedgehog’), a large multinational exercise with over 15000 troops.

661 Sqn supporting Estonian forces conducting FIBUA (fighting in built up areas training).


SAFETY

MEET THE TEAMJHC AH SAFETYCol James AndersonE: [email protected]: 01264 381488

JHC SO1 AIR SAFETYWg Cdr Tony Lett RAFE: [email protected]: 01264 381220

JHC SO1 GROUND SAFETYMr David AtkinsE: [email protected]: 01264 381562

JHC SO2 FLIGHT SAFETYLt Cdr Owen CamplissonE: [email protected]: 01264 381591

JHC SO2 SAFETY POLICYGappedE: T:

JHC SO2 RISK MANAGEMENTSqn Ldr Adam Foley RAFE: [email protected]: 01264 381554

JHC SO2 SAFETY POLICY & REGULATIONGappedE: T:

JHC SO2 UNMANNED AIR SYSTEMSMaj Tania Reay Royal ArtilleryE: [email protected]: 01264 381526

JHC SO3 ASSURANCEWO1 Chris Lay AACE: [email protected]: 01264 381473

JHC SO3 ANALYSISGappedE:T:

JHC Safety Team

The article below is a ‘throwback’ article from LZDZ in 2014. Critically acclaimed by the RAF

Safety Centre and representatives of the BHPA, it was widely publicised. It featured in Issue 15 of Airclues and elements have been incorporated to the JHC flash magazine as it contains key safety critical messages. JHC is proud that it was written by one of its own; Maj Jonathan Gilbert REME, a safety case officer and key member of the JHC Air Safety Team. It serves as a timely reminder that increasingly we are not alone in uncontrolled airspace and a little knowledge may be our only safeguard.

‘The peak in sport and leisure aviation activity across the UK during the summer months is such that it should become a major consideration during the planning process of any flight through uncontrolled airspace; the key concern being maintenance of adequate separation.

Since Hang Gliders and Paragliders do not carry radio or transponders, good lookout in the vicinity of known launch sites tends to be the primary means of glider avoidance. However, this alone is insufficient; an understanding of gliding techniques and practices, together with an appreciation of the weather conditions in which the activity is usually conducted are essential to minimise the chances of an air proximity incident.

Firstly, it is important to dispel the commonly held misconception that foot launched gliding is purely a glorified sledge ride, involving nothing more than leaping off the top of a hill and gliding down to the bottom! The aim of the activity is in fact to gain as much height as possible above the takeoff point using ridge lift and thermals, and

then head off across country seeking new thermals

and staying airborne as

long as possible. Height

gains of several

thousand

Hang gliding and Paragliding – Lessons Learned?

feet are routinely achieved by experienced pilots, who circle in thermal lift up to cloudbase and can travel hundreds of kilometres across country. The UK height gain record for a hang glider is 12000ft above takeoff (ATO) in wave meteorological conditions, and the duration record stands at just over 8 hours! However, these achievements are exceptional and flights of around 2-3hrs with height gains of up to 5000ft ATO, if cloudbase permits, are more the norm for most experienced cross country pilots.

Most Hang Glider and Paraglider flying is initiated through foot launching from steep sided hills or ridges that face into the prevailing wind. Although winch and microlight tug launches from airfields are also undertaken, most pilots prefer the freedom, independence and low cost associated with foot launching from a hill or terrain feature. Furthermore, the thermal activity that is sought by pilots is more readily triggered by undulating terrain.

Most foot launch flying sites are clearly marked on military aviation 1:50,000 maps and are also listed in the Low Flying Handbook. They can therefore be readily identified for flight planning purposes. However, whether or not the sites will be in use on the day depends predominantly on the prevailing weather conditions and seasonal site restrictions, as described below:

Wind Direction Attempting to foot launch a glider of any type in crosswind or downwind conditions is very hazardous and therefore as a rule launches will only take place directly into wind. In most cases the primary wind direction applicable to a marked foot launch site is obvious from the topographical features shown on the chart. (eg. a northerly facing ridge will be used when the surface wind is northerly etc). This will provide a general indication as to whether the site will be in use at the time but further research is necessary to establish the full range of wind directions suitable for launching. The British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association (BHPA) is the

governing body for Hang Gliding and Paragliding in the UK and their website can be accessed through the following link: http://www.bhpa.co.uk/clubs/clubs.php?region=uk . This will provide a linked list of BHPA recreational clubs covering the whole of the UK. It also provides a map showing their geographical locations. The clubs relevant to the intended flight route can then be identified and their websites accessed. For example, if intending to fly near the South Downs the Southern Hang Gliding Club website should be visited and their Site Guide accessed. On doing so, a compass rose will appear indicating the range of launch wind directions applicable to each club site. The well-known site ‘Devils Dyke’ is suitable for launching when the wind direction is anywhere between WNW and N. Accessing this site link will reveal considerably more detail, but most significantly it specifies the best launch wind direction (NW) – a clear indication as to when the site will be at its busiest! Additionally, accessing the site guide provides a useful means of checking for all sites that may be on, or close to, the route planned. Some of these sites, particularly the smaller ones, might not be marked on the maps yet they may become quite busy when conditions are favourable.

Wind Strength Paragliders favour lighter surface winds up to about 10kts, but Hang Gliders can launch quite comfortably in surface winds up to around 25kts. Thus, in surface winds of 25kts or below, activity on the into wind sites should be expected. Paragliders greatly outnumber Hang Gliders and therefore sites will be at their busiest in lighter wind conditions. Most of the gliders will fly in the ridge-lift-band on the windward side of the hill and therefore are unlikely to rise much higher than 1000ft ATO. However, there will always be a cadre of more experienced pilots in their midst who will rise considerably higher if conditions permit and then head off cross country. More often than not their cross country routes will be downwind of the launch site. Triangular flights to prearranged waypoints are perfectly feasible, particularly in competition flying.

THE JHC DELIVERING JOINT SUCCESS ON OPERATIONS 28 ISSUE 3, 2018 / LZDZ

Hey! Remember that it’s a northwesterly wind today guys so that local glider site might

be active. Its good soaring conditions today…eyes out!

MEET THE TEAMJHC SO3 DAEMSWO1 Ian FowlerE: [email protected]: 01264 781752

JHC SO3 FIRE SAFETYWO David PriceE: [email protected]: 01264 381458

JHC SO2 SAFETY CASE 1CH47, PU2, N3 & AVIATION DH FACINGMaj John Osborne ParaE: [email protected]: 01264 381525

JHC SO2 SAFETY CASE 2ME, WCMaj Russ Bothwick Royal ArtilleryE: [email protected]: 01264 381464

JHC SO2 SAFETY CASE 3AH, ISL/DEF & GZMaj Jonathan Gilbert REMEE: [email protected]: 01264 381830

JHC SO2 SAFETY CASE 4BELL 212, WK & UASMaj Ant Atkinson-Willes AGC ETSE: [email protected]: 01264 381531

JHC DUTY OFFICEROffice HoursT: 01264 381490Out of HoursT: 07717 451 970

JHC AIR SAFETY TEAM ASSISTANTSMaj Mishap AACChief Cause RNSgt Slip RAF

Think twice before planning to fly close to that minor aerodrome.

Have you checked the LFHB? It could

be busier than you think!

Cloudbase/CloudcoverHang Gliders and Paragliders are essentially ‘VFR only’ aircraft, mainly due their inability to carry Attitude Indicator/Artificial Horizon instrumentation. Thus, they do not as a rule fly in cloud. However, they may well inadvertently enter cloud whilst working thermal lift. Similarly, on broken cloud cover days they may well rise higher than some clouds whilst still maintaining VFR flight. Cloudbase therefore only acts as a height limitation when the cloud cover is significant. Additionally, low cloud will not necessarily prevent gliding activity unless it either obscures or is only marginally above the launch point.

Precipitation/VisibilityPrecipitation has an adverse effect on the aerodynamic characteristics of foot launched gliders. Rain will retard the airflow over a Hang Glider wing; resulting in a much higher stall speed and thus greatly reduced stall margin. Launches will therefore not take place in precipitation conditions. Gliders can frequently get caught in precipitation in flight, particularly in light shower or intermittent rain conditions. As a rule precipitation will only prevent gliding activity when it is frequent, constant or heavy. In the case of visibility, the limitations specified in the Air Navigation Order in terms of maintaining VFR, are equally applicable to foot launch gliders, as they are to all other forms of aviation.

Seasonal Activity/Site LimitationsComparatively little Hang Gliding or Paragliding takes place in the UK during the winter months largely due to short daylight hours, adverse and unpredictable weather conditions and greatly reduced thermal activity. Any flying that does take place is likely to be confined to ridge soaring a few hundred feet above the windward side of a hill or top to bottom training flights (cross country flying is unlikely). Many sites are closed during these periods due to seasonal activities such as pheasant/grouse shooting, lambing and crop sowing. Site operating periods and limitations (such as no fly areas) will be clearly specified in the relevant Club Site Guides, accessible through the BHPA website (see ‘Wind Direction’ paragraph above).In summary, in order to minimise

the risk of air Proximity incidents with foot launched gliders, it is recommended that the following action is undertaken prior to any flight through uncontrolled airspace in day VFR conditions:

Visit the BHPA website http://www.bhpa.co.uk/clubs/clubs.php?region=uk and check which clubs operate in the areas to be over flown. Access the relevant Club Site Guides and check which sites may be active in the prevailing surface wind conditions. Where unable to avoid the sites, plan to fly upwind of the windward side of the hill/ridge maintaining as much horizontal and vertical separation as possible.

Although this may seem like an unwelcome, additional flight planning burden much of the research can be done in slow time, well in advance of the intended flights; particularly where routes or areas to be over flown are routine or predictable.

Lastly, keep a good lookout throughout your flight from the surface all the way up to cloud base. Gliders are constantly seeking lift (rising air) in order to stay airborne. To the casual observer they may appear to fly together in ‘gaggles’, whereas in fact they are merely using the same thermal. The company of other gliders is not their goal – rather it is staying airborne by gaining as much altitude as possible from whatever lift is available. Where one glider is observed circling in thermal lift there are likely to be several others working the same lift, at varying altitudes above and below. Remember there may well be foot launch gliders flying cross country by “hopping” from one thermal to the next, particularly downwind of active sites.’

So What?Whilst some of us may argue that as professional aviators ‘we knew most of that!’ we are still prone to the pressures and errors which may culminate in missing that key piece of information which could lead to a potential airprox with another airspace user.

At a recent UK Airprox Board Meeting, Airprox Report No 201812 studied a near miss between a Military Hawk T1 and a group of paragliders at a site near Westbury just outside Salisbury Plain Danger Area. The pilot was under a high

workload, working with a JTAC conducting a simulated ground attack and under an ATS from Boscombe Down. It was stated during a pre-flight telebriefing with SPTA Ops that possible gliding sites and microlight sites were nearby but not within the confines of the danger area. During positioning for the attack run the Hawk flew through a package of paragliders with an estimated separation of around 100’ vertically and horizontally; too close in anyone’s book! The Hawk pilot aborted his attack run and called Boscombe and SPTA Ops who had no visibility of the Paragliders.

This case generated a lot of discussion within the board which ranged from command and control, gliding close to danger areas, map marking, activation of glider sites, club liaison with SPTA Ops and NOTAM issue to name but a few. A NOTAM may have made all units, including the JTAC, aware of the site activity but under current regs there is no requirement to do so. Would it have been prudent for the Club to contact SPTA Ops and inform them of planned activity – possibly. Did the pilot know that the site was going to be active with that wind direction – who knows?

New SERA Rules This report also provides us with a Segway to discuss other Class G users operating out of minor aerodromes. In congested unclassified airspace, military low level routing is often troublesome around some of the well-known bottlenecks near ATZs or on the boundaries of controlled airspace. This can lead to the decision to ‘sail close to the wind’ near minor aerodromes or even directly overfly and employ the see and avoid philosophy as happened in another UK Airprox Board assessed incident (Herc formation vs MotorGlider - Airprox report No 2018005). Aviators be warned; if you do this you will potentially have failed to ‘conform with or avoid the pattern of traffic formed by other aircraft in operation’ - SERA.3225 Operation on and in the Vicinity of an Aerodrome. There will be more to follow on this hot topic in the next


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OPERATIONS

On a cold, wet and windy Staffordshire morning 7 personnel from Tactical Supply

Wing based at MOD Stafford gathered at 0300 in the MT yard ready to depart on an experience of a lifetime. Upon arriving at Stanstead we met our 8th member of the trip, SAC Duke from RAF Odiham. The Ryanair flight passed without incident, however an honourable mention must be given to Flt Lt Carney who led TSW onto the plane first by taking pole position in the boarding queue.

Touching down in Athens was welcomed by the taller contingent of the group; Fg Off Swart’s and SAC Carter’s legs returning to more relaxed, uncrushed state. We were welcomed in at Arrivals by a minibus and taxi laid on by Seafarers to take us to Corinth, our first destination, where the boats should have been to meet us.

After an hour on a beautiful brand new EU-funded motorway passing what used to be Greek light industry along the roadside, we arrived at the hotel for the first night. The Kalamaki Beach Hotel was an oasis of calm along the Ionian, after settling in to our rooms and acquainting ourselves with the panoramic views and sea-side swimming pool we all had dinner together and FS McGuire delivered a brief detailing the weeks Key Learning Points, and what we were to expect. A small contingent of the group later ventured into Corinth were they set about establishing international relations with the locals. They returned quietly to the hotel later that evening.

Saturday morning started with a group PT session, a hearty

breakfast and the news that the boats were not here, but a 4 hour drive away in Lefkada. Meeting us there were the 2 skippers provided by Seafarers; Georgios and Becky. The boats (Stepping Stone and Captain John), were assigned their skippers and crew, and an induction followed where we were quite literally ‘shown the ropes’. That evening the group bought food for the journey, which was topped up along the route most nights, then met up for dinner together.

The initial plan was to sail the boats back to Corinth, so on day 1 of sailing, we set off onto the waves; it was a true baptism of fire. The sea was very rough, so rough the skippers took control of the boats and got the sails away. Lunch was attempted to be served on Stepping Stone, however this was quickly abandoned due to sea sickness below decks. Thankfully the only calls were ‘man down’ and not ‘man overboard’! We put the motor on instead, and in the interests of safety made for the port for the night at Meganisi Vathi. That night a humongous Spaghetti Carbonara went some way in raising our slightly dampened spirits. All slept very well that night, safe in the knowledge we had made it through the 40 knot winds and choppy waters.

Day two started in much the same vein as the first; high winds and treacherous conditions for sailing. However by this point the crews had gotten used to the boat racing along at a near 90 degree angle, and sea sickness tablet use was in full force! It is fair to say that the conditions were not like any of the team had been expecting. After lunch the seas calmed and we found a bay in which to drop anchor for a while and swim around the boat. In the

calm seas the water was warm and then the feeling of adventure truly arrived. We left the bay, back into the surf to sail to Ithkada where we docked for the night. Already miles behind schedule due to the poor weather we had a decision to make. That night we decided that our route had to change; we would sail around the Islands close to us rather than to Corinth, as this was too far away for the time we had left.

With this new plan in mind, the third day of sailing was sufficiently more relaxed than the others had been. The sea was calm, and we could really start to focus more on out sailing skills. We learnt more knots, turns and started on other drills like man-overboard. We pulled up into a small bay for lunch, which was duly followed by a swim in the calm waters. The marine life in this bay was a sight to behold. We sailed on to Kafelonia where we stayed the night. Spaghetti Bolognaise was the order of the night with Chef SAC Carter providing us with a filling meal.

Another morning, another intensive Phys session run by Cpl McGuire. Who in his (self-assigned) role as Ex-PTI encouraged all to take part on a daily basis, albeit with a mixed response from the crew! From our port we sailed to Fiskado on the Wednesday, and it was upon this day that a mythical partnership was born. The 3X McGuires; FS, Cpl and SAC formed a bond so strong that it developed a ‘secret’ sign and name. The world is not yet ready for ‘Tri-Gui’. In honour of the new group, SAC McGuire prepared a sweet and sour chicken which cemented the importance of Tri-Gui inthe minds of all present.

Waking up on the Thursday morning we all became very aware of how quickly the trip was going. We carried on sailing with our final port coming ever closer. By this time we had all become comfortable with the

skills Seafarers had taught us and were starting to feel like properly able crewmen. We docked at Sivota that night, ready for a short sail the next day. That night Flt Lt Carney, prepared for the group a Fish Stir-Fry. This was, possibly, the most anticipated moment of the trip and one worth waiting for. All would agree this was the most well planned meal of the trip and it paid off. Delicious!

Friday morning came with a gentle swell and the now familiar sound of waves lapping against the sides of our respective boats. We made our final journey to Lefkada where we arrived and had our final brief from the staff. We were all awarded the Competent Crew qualification, meaning that in the future we can take part in sailing expeditions and work towards our Day Skipper qualification. We all went out on the town that night, led by our local guide Georgios, which turned out to be a rather late one.

We woke on Saturday morning with sore heads and tired eyes. Saying our goodbyes to Becky, Georgios, Capt. John and Stepping Stone, we headed onto our transport that would take us to Athens – the final part of the trip. We arrived in Athens early in the afternoon and checked into the hotel. Like the first night, it was most comfortable and we settled in before the group split – some for a nap, others to explore the city. We all reconvened for dinner in the hotel restaurant before heading out into Athens to a couple of bars to enjoy the Greek ambiance and reminisce about the good times of the trip, memories we had made and at midnight, the 100 year anniversary of the RAF. Suffice to say, it was a memorable night for all involved.

Sunday morning came around too quickly, and with it the knowledge that the trip had come to an end. We packed up our bags, headed to the airport and prepared to feel the squeeze again of the 4 hour flight back to the UK. A long journey entailed back to Stafford, for which we must thank TSW MT for picking us up at Stanstead where we said goodbye to SAC Duke, whisking us back up North arriving around 2200 after what had been a truly amazing, testing and fulfilling experience.

RAF 100 BREEZES IN DURING Ex POSEIDON STORM Written by Fg Off Stephen Swart

Tactical Supply Wing AT - Fri 23rd Mar – Sun 1st Apr 2018


PEOPLE

STATE, MSMS AND COMMENDATIONS

Award Rank Name Force

Companion of the British Empire (CBE)

CBE Brig Keating JHC HQ

Member of the British Empire (MBE)

MBE MAC Bradley R & S Wing

Meritorious Service Medals (MSM)

MSM WO2 Wesson AACen

MSM WO1 Meekey AAvn Stds JHC

MSM MACr Holmes RAF Odiham

1st Sea Lord’s Greenwich Hospital Prize

1SL GHP Lt Cdr Hill CHF

1SL GHP Lt Cdr Westley CHF

Chief of the General Staff Commendation (CGS)

CGS Maj Howard AACen

CGS Maj McCollum AAvn Stds JHC

Chief of the Air Staff (CAS)

CAS Sgt Mowforth RAF Benson

Deputy Commanders’ Commendation (DCOMs’)

DCOM’s Sgt Kehoe RAF Odiham

Air Officer Commanding 2 Group Commendation (AOC 2 Gp)

AOC 2 Gp WO T Stead RAF Benson

AOC 2 Gp FS E H V Wood RAF Odiham

AOC 2 Gp Sgt S Jones RAF Benson

AOC 2 Gp Sgt M A Robertshaw RAF Benson

AOC 2 Gp Cpl S A Bryan FTRS RAF Odiham

AOC 2 Gp SAC M Vassallo Grant RAF Benson

AOC 2 Gp Team Commendation

Project HESTIA Pay-as-You-Dine Mobilisation Team

RAF Odiham

COMD JHC COMMENDATIONS

Rank Name Force

Lt Longia CHF

Lt Cdr Holloway CHF

CPO Elder CHF

Sgt Higgins AHF

Sgt White AHF

Sgt Bailey ARF

SAC(T) Hayes RAF Benson

CT Larkin RAF Benson

FS Lundy RAF Benson

SAC(T) Evans RAF Benson

Cpl Turner RAF Odiham

Sgt Evans TSW

Cpl Procter TSW

Cpl Evans TSW

Sgt Sabella TSW

COMD JHC TEAM COMMENDATIONS

1710 NAS, RAF Benson Regional Non Destructive Testing Team (RNDTT)

1710 NAS

AH Display Team AHF

Results 2018List

Queen’sBirthday Honours

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