the egiment royal aartilleryrmy’s watchkeeper · 2016-10-14 · 4 issue 3, 2016 / lzdz foreword...

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Tactical supply Wing raise money for local

charities during families day celebrations

nijmegen Marches 2016

Awards

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

47th regiment royal artillery

The army’sWatchkeeper

Merlin Mk3s prove their mettle in day-long

gibraltar transit

Honours&

visit: www.lzdzonline.co.uk lZdZ / issue 3 2016 3

ConTenTs

Contents issue 3, 2016

Cover sTory47th Regiment Royal Artililery the Army’s Watchkeeper ............ 6

Honours & aWardsMajor General Richard Felton presented two awards at the Joint Helicopter Command Headquarter, Andover. .............. 5

CapaBiliTyJoint Helicopter Command participate in Biggets live major emergency Excercise ...................8Tactical Supply Wing raise money for local charities during Families Day celebrations .......................... 9Competition Time! ...................... 9Commando Helicopter Force personnel participate in the Highland Games Tug-of-war ...... 9

peopleBATUK Aviation Support Squadron (BASS) Community Engagement Macharia School ‘Effort Ever” ..... 10Nijmegen Marches 2016 ............... 12846 NAS OCF working with the community ................... 13Exchange Programme Long Look 20 RAF Reserve Squadron marks 20 years of operational support 21

operaTionsMerlin MK3s prove their mettle in day-long Gibraltar transit ........... 14Centenary flight finally takes off .. 16

safeTyJHC Safety Team ......................... 18

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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.

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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.

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

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4 issue 3, 2016 / lZdZ

foreWord

please turn to page 6 For the cover story

47TH regiMenT royal arTillery THe arMy’s WaTCHkeeper

L 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 Anna Burte: [email protected] T: 01264 381 178–salesSales Manager: Laurence Rowee: [email protected]: 01536 526 662–designerDesigner: Rowena Wilsone: [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: .–Cover CrediT© MoD Crown Copyright

Maj Gen Richard Felton CBE Commander JHC

CapaBiliTy

the Jhc delivering Joint success on operations

aWards

Honours

Major General Richard Felton presented two awards at the Joint Helicopter Command

Headquarter, Andover.

Awards

us Marine Corps exCHange offiCer reCeives CoMMander JoinT HeliCopTer CoMMendaTionMajor William Smyth (847 NAS) received a Commendation from Commander JHC.

Major Smyth has been employed as the United States Marine Corps’ (USMC) exchange officer with 847 Naval Air Squadron for the last two and a half years. During this time he has undertaken conversion training to fly and operate the UK Defence’s new Battlefield Wildcat helicopter, which is an impressive achievement for overseas aircrew.

As the Joint Helicopter Command (JHC) appointed lead for re-generating and developing

photo taken by Cpl Rob Travis, RAF Odiham

photo taken by Cpl Rob Travis, RAF OdihamUK Defence’s Forward Air

Controller (Airborne) (FAC(A)) capability, Smyth single-handedly developed a new FAC(A) syllabus and its associated courseware, and then delivered this training to students on the first FAC(A) course. As an expert in the control of Joint Fires, Smyth was appointed as JHC’s subject matter expert, meaning that in addition to his primary front-line squadron duties, he took the leading role in advising UK Defence on how to develop and then maintain a FAC(A) capability. Smyth has made a significant and lasting difference to UK Defence capability by ensuring that this hitherto poorly understood but essential capability now has a strong future, with an excellent training course established to underpin its delivery.

lT Cdr Milne reCeives CoMMander JoinT HeliCopTer CoMMand CoinLt Cdr Andre Milne has been employed as a desk officer within the Air Manoeuvre Capability Development area for two years. The effective delivery of the Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers is one of Defence’s highest priorities. Milne has been ‘front-and-centre’ in setting the conditions for the integration of credible Air Manoeuvre capability. He has an intuitive grasp of command intent, which he combines with mastery of detail and a knack of cutting

right to the heart of an issue to ensure effective preparation of senior Army HQ Officers for the multitude of programme and executive boards. In so doing he routinely works several grades above his rank; he regularly reports to a 2* audience and on occasion to 4* and to the Cabinet Office.

Against a backdrop of increased complexity from significant organisational change across the Army HQ and JHC, Milne has demonstrated almost peerless insight, drive, a truly ‘Joint’ approach and impressive capacity. He has delivered at a level well above that expected and far above the majority of his peers.

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I hope that everyone had an enjoyable summer break. In July I visited 47 Regt RA, the Watchkeeper Regiment, on Ascension Island.

I was very impressed by the training being conducted and the professionalism of all those involved; Watchkeeper had already flown twice as many hours in

a third of the time compared with what it achieved at Boscombe Down in 2015.

More recently I visited Exercise BLACK ALLIGATOR in California. This Exercise forms part of the multi-environment training package that will assure 40 Commando RM as the Lead Commando Group with the support of Joint Helicopter Force 1. From a JHC perspective, the aim of the Exercise was to conduct Collective Training 2 to 4, including Live Fire training in extreme hot weather conditions. It also allowed the aircrew to gain their desert

environmental qualifications; a key enabler to being able to operate worldwide.

JHC personnel have also left UK waters on board HMS Ocean as part of the inaugural Joint Expeditionary Force (Maritime) Task Group. Chinooks from 27 Sqn are working alongside Merlin helicopters from 845 Naval Air Sqn and the Apache from 662 Sqn Army Air Corps to conduct Joint and combined exercises with several partner nations.

I would like to thank you and your families for your continued support to operations and overseas deployments.

6 issue 3, 2016 / lZdZ the Jhc delivering Joint success on operations visit: www.lzdzonline.co.uk lZdZ / issue 3, 2016 7

CapaBiliTy

Written By: Maj Sam Harvey RA

47th regiment royal artillery

Watchkeeper regiment

In addition, the unit is undergoing restructuring which draws upon elements of the REME from 74 (Support) Battery who have

already re-joined the Regiment to create a bespoke Watchkeeper Workshop. The near future could potentially (pending A2020 refine) see an expansion of 47 Regt RA to include a further subunit.

Following more than ten years’

experience of flying and operating Unmanned Air Systems (UAS), as well as myriad operational tours, the Regiment finds itself rerolled to providing the Army’s sole Tactical UAS (TUAS) capability, in the form of Watchkeeper; another challenge its soldiers have met with both rigour and style.

The Regiment itself is no stranger to change, having originally formed in 1947 as a Coastal Artillery Training Regiment. Over the subsequent years, the Regiment and its Batteries have rerolled on numerous occasions and trained on varying equipment from Close Support Guns, Air Defence,

TUAS (Hermes 450), Miniature Unmanned Air Systems (MUAS), Tarantula Hawk (T-HAWK) and now TUAS Watchkeeper; all capabilities having deployed operationally.

Although the Regiment is comparatively young and smaller than most Royal Artillery units, its three Batteries all hold long and distinguished histories and have all deployed operationally in the UAS role: 31 (Headquarters) Battery, 10 (Assaye) Battery and 43 (Lloyd’s Company) Battery.

10 (assaye) BaTTery Formed in 1755 as the 3rd Company Bombay Artillery, the

Battery at the time of formation was equipped with cannons pulled by elephants. 10 (Assaye) Battery holds three main honour titles: 1799 Seringapatam, 1803 Assaye and 1843 Hyderabad. During the First World War WO2 (BSM) George Horlock was awarded the VC, and during the Adriatic campaign in the Second World War the Battery were awarded the Polish Syrena as a battle honour, having fought alongside the II Polish Corps. Members of the Battery still wear the Syrena on their No.2 Service Dress. In recent history, the Battery saw simultaneous operational deployments in both Iraq and Afghanistan following a sharp conversion from Air Defence to Integrated UAS – providing support in the form of TUAS, MUAS and T-HAWK capabilities. Conversion to Watchkeeper began in December 2015 initially focusing on training Launch and Recovery detachments, operations staff and provision of pilots.

During periods of ‘down time’ the soldiers have thrown themselves fully into Ascension Island life and completed a number of projects on the island. These include the reconstruction and painting of the school playground, the clearing and restoration of a cemetery, building a community BBQ on one of the beaches and

having a Watchkeeper display on both Ascension Island Day and for the U.S. personnel on their 4th July celebration. Lance Bombardier Crooks (the Island’s Physical Training Instructor) has been busy helping run the local swimming pool as well as running an island ‘Iron Man’ competition open to anyone on the island. Sergeant Picking was the star of the fishermen and during the island fishing competition managed to land the largest tuna anyone had ever seen. Finally, those deployed on Ex ARIES SPIDER (the instruction and training taking place in Ascension Island) have

also entered a team in the locally run cricket competition with the Battery Commander, Major Andy Carter, winning the trophy for most runs scored in an innings with 112.

Back in the UK, the Regiment has firmly established itself at Horne Barracks, Larkhill; the home of the Royal Artillery. Despite the busy and demanding pace, the Regiment has continued to develop soldiers both professionally and personally. On top of the array of career courses, the Regiment has competed at some of the highest levels in the Army at sport and taken part in a number of exciting and challenging adventurous

The army’s

LBdr Halliday – Launch and Recovery (Level 3 PATE operator) - “I have really enjoyed integrating with the other cap badges on the island; it has been a fantastic experience.”

Watchkeeper 030 in the arrestors after the maiden flight above Ascension Island.

WaTCHkeeperWatchkeeper itself is an in-service Army Unmanned Air System, which delivers timely and high quality imagery intelligence to the tactical commander on the battlefield. This imagery intelligence is critical in enabling commanders to reduce battlefield risk and make more informed battle winning decisions. Whilst the focus has been on flying and aircraft operations, the real benefit of Watchkeeper are realised through its ISTAR capabilities.

The processes of training and assuring instructors initially began with Watchkeeper training and live flying taking place at Boscombe Down Airfield, Wiltshire. Live flying from Boscombe Down into Salisbury Plain Training Area became a

43 (lloyd’s CoMpany) BaTTeryThe Battery was formed in 1808 in response to the need for artillery firepower in the war against Napoleon in Europe, where its battle honour was earned under Capt WJ Lloyd at Waterloo. Throughout the years 43 (Lloyd’s Company) Battery has been involved at critical operational moments and in a variety of artillery disciplines. Whether providing the Garrison Artillery for Gibraltar during the First and Second World Wars (and securing a confirmed kill against a German Submarine), or firing in anger during the Falkland War as the Air Defence Battery

regular activity however; the busy airspace coupled with poor weather conditions slowed training. The volume of sorties and hours required to train the future Watchkeeper instructors and pilots required an assured flying location. Soldiers from the Regiment, 74 (Support) Battery and the Royal School of Artillery (RSA) deployed to Ascension

Pilots operating inside the Ground Control Station.

The Captain General’s Baton (South Africa) - the tour around the world as part of the UBIQUE 300 celebrations.

training expeditions as part of the Royal Artillery’s UBIQUE 300 celebrations - including sailing in the Caribbean, mountain biking in Malaysia and kayaking in South Africa. Sporting achievements have featured the football team reaching the finals of both the Southern League and Army Minor Units Cup finals, the hockey team qualifying for the Army Cup and the badminton team qualifying for the Army championships. Individual sporting achievements across Army, British and World level include cycling, snowboarding, mountain biking, Taekwondo, rowing and orienteering.

Island in the South Atlantic in early 2016 to conduct the live flying element of the Watchkeeper pilot training courses. The more favourable weather, availability of airspace and uncongested runway of Wideawake Airfield make Ascension Island an excellent environment to conduct pilot training. On 28 Mar 16, Watchkeeper made its maiden

and achieving seven confirmed kills of Argentinean aircraft. After several periods of suspended animation, the Battery returned on two occasions in the TUAS role and deployed to Afghanistan in support of Op HERRICK. The Battery were chosen to be the Watchkeeper trials unit for the Regiment and are now deployed in Ascension Island, supporting the training of the first instructors and pilots.

Thus far over 280 hours have been recorded, equating to 100+ sorties. At present, the first students are undergoing their live flying training, while the second course goes through training back in the UK. Launch and Recovery

courses are already underway in Ascension and the future personnel of Watchkeeper are relishing their new employment.

flight from the new flying location. The Army’s most experienced Watchkeeper instructor, WO1 Ruck and Mr James Aslam-Armitage, (a civilian Thales instructor who is supporting the programme), flew the first mission. There are now 7 instructors trained and delivering the courses with an aim to train a further 16 pilots by the end of 2016.

On 31st August 2016, the Regiment re-subordinated from 1st Intelligence and Surveillance Brigade to the Joint Helicopter Command.

31 (HeadquarTers) BaTTeryThe senior Battery within the Regiment initially formed in March 1755 under the authority of a Royal Warrant. The Battery has supported numerous operations spanning 250 years in the Field Artillery, Coastal Defence, Air Defence or UAS role. The Battery has served in wars in India, at Waterloo, the siege of Cambrai, in the Boer War, provided the protection of Malta throughout WW2, and more recently served in Op BANNER, the Gulf Wars, Kosovo and Op HERRICK. Today the Battery provides the life support and administration for the Regiment.

In recent years, the Regiment has continually adapted, and remained flexible to the constantly changing environment we operate in. In Watchkeeper 47 Regt have taken on a new challenge, and the officers and soldiers look forward to writing a new chapter in the Regiment’s remarkable and busy history.


HeadingCapaBiliTy

Written By: Maj (Retd) Lee Bower

Written By: WO G Barlow

Written By: Maj (Retd) Lee Bower

furTHer inforMaTion

Exercise Triton 11 is the biggest, live exercise of its kind ever held in the north west region of England, and tests how local authorities, emergency services and other parlners are equipped to tackle a major emergency together.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) requested military support for the exercise, which was staged across Stockport, Rochdale and Oldham over 14-15 July.

Joint helicopter command

participate in Biggets live major emergency exercise held in nw englandThe fliers of the Commando Helicopter Force and Support Helicopter Force were invited to help fire and rescue teams and civic authorities in the north west practise dealing with a major civilian emergency – such as the terrible floods which ravaged much of Cumbria, Lancashire and Yorkshire last Christmas.

The day-long Exercise Triton II was billed as the largest real-time work out of its kind ever

held in the region as three dozen military, civilian and emergency services and organisations came together to tackle with simulated severe flooding in Stockport and Oldham. Yeovilton-based 845 Naval Air Squadron sent one

Junglie Merlin north to Barton aerodrome on the western edge of Manchester, accompanied by an Oshkosh bowser and two crew to refuel the marines’ helicopter. A Chinook from RAF Odiham also took part in the Exercise.

The Merlin acted as troop carrier whilst the Chinook was used to lift high volume water pumping equipment from Mayer’s

Quarry in Mossley, Oldham, to nearby Dove Stone Reservoir.

The exercise saw soldiers from 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment build defences at an electricity sub-station in Heyrod, Stockport, to protect it from rising flood waters.

Troops and mountain rescue personnel were then flown by Merlin to help with a search and rescue exercise at Hollingworth Lake, Littleborough, before spending the rest of the day buzzing around Greater Manchester moving military and civilian personnel between the various hotspots such as the site of a bus crash into a river.

“For our part, it was a very rewarding day,” said Merlin pilot Lt Tom Burrows. “The tasking offered us some challenging flying and it was an added bonus to support the civilian emergency services, alongside soldiers from 42 Infantry Brigade.

“The exercise gave an insight as to our likely involvement in responding to a civil emergency, something the squadron can take forward to be well-prepared in the future.”

Paul Argyle, Manchester’s

8 issue 3, 2016 / lZdZ the Jhc delivering Joint success on operations

Deputy Fire Chief, who oversaw Triton II, said the “scale of the destruction and chaos in the exercise was deliberately designed to test the region at full stretch.

“We have to do this to ensure we are well prepared to deal with any future real-life event or disaster that might occur – and it is also invaluable that those taking part got the chance to practise essential response skills that would be used during a major incident like this.”

commando helicopter Force personnel participate in the

Inter Services Tug of War rivalry commenced when teams from the Royal Navy & Royal Marines, the Army and

the Royal Air Force competed in the 2016 Highland Games at the Braemar Gathering in front of Her Majesty the Queen.

Eight members, half of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines team were Royal Marines from the Commando Helicopter Force based at the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton,

Highland games Tug-of-War at the 2016 Braemar gathering

Tactical supply Wing raise money for local Charities during families day celebrations

The TSW annual Families Day event took place earlier this summer. Throughout the day

there was a range of activities in order to raise awareness and money for two local charities that TSW support. In total £1350 was raised. £850 was donated to The Donna Louise Children’s Trust which provides palliative care and support for children with life limiting conditions. The Donna Louise Children’s Trust also provides support to the families of these children. The remaining £500 was donated to the Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team; who are a highly skilled team of dedicated

volunteers that give up their own time to provide assistance to the emergency services and the

local community. Overall, the day was a resounding success and enjoyed by all who attended.

Competition

LZDZ is changing its name. This is your chance to decide the new name for the magazine of Joint Helicopter Command (JHC). JHC is made up of the following Forces:· Commando Helicopter Force· Attack Helicopter Force· Aviation Reconnaissance Force· Watchkeeper Force· Support Helicopter Force Please email name suggestions to Sqn Ldr Anna Burt [email protected]. The winning name will be selected by Commander JHC and the winner will receive a tub of celebration chocolates.

Time!

led by Captain Charlie Wilson RM. Representing the Royal Navy and Royal Marines in front of Her Majesty at such an incredible venue, and as part of such an historical and prestigious event has been a wonderful experience for the participants. An excellent video of the event can be found on the Commando Helicopter Force Facebook page.

lZdZ / issue 3, 2016 11

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batuk aviation support squadronb (bass) community engagement ..

The BASS is in Kenya conducting MEDEVAC and is constituted from

9 AAC personnel who have recently passed into command of 1 AAC. The second FET for BASS arrived in Kenya at the start of February.

Written By: Capt M Adams AAC

photography by SAC Shannon RAF and Capt Adams AAC O

n arriving in Kenya and seeing the poverty that people were living in, most

members of the Squadron voiced an immediate desire to assist wherever possible. This desire lead to BASS conducting outreach in order to find a suitable project. Although unforeseen circumstances prevented our assistance to the first project we found, Maj Woodhouse soon found an alternative. Through Wilson, a waiter at Barneys Restaurant, he had already begun interaction with a local school. After a quick visit it was obvious that they would greatly benefit from any assistance and so began

visit: www.lzdzonline.co.uk10 issue 3, 2016 / lZdZ the Jhc delivering Joint success on operations

Macharia schoolour work with Macharia School.

Even before the school had been identified, fund raising was well under way under the supervision of Sgt Raffermati. Collections, a charity darts night and a 24 hour cycle were organised in order to raise as much money as possible. The 24 hour cycle was completed by Maj Woodhouse, Sgt Raffermati and Capt Adams who, between them, cycled continuously for 24 hours on a spin bike. The darts night was also well received with most of the squadron getting involved and in total BASS raised over £500 for the school.

Once the money was raised we met with Ann Muriuki, the School’s head teacher to discuss what we could feasibly achieve. After reviewing her “Strategic Plan” (an A4 printed piece of paper with a list of what they needed) we started to find the materials to enable the work they desperately needed. The classrooms needed wind/waterproofing, desks and more importantly text books. Over half the money we raised was spent on text books they desperately

“effort ever”needed and even then it was only enough to buy one child a book each, in year 8 for only 6 subjects. Which although seemingly minor was more than they get from the government in 3 years.

BASS went to the school for a period of two days to handover the textbooks and start improvements on the most degraded school houses. However the biggest impact made on the children seemed to be the interaction with the members of BASS itself, whether it was playing sport or listening

to Sgt Lovett play his guitar. Over two days, wood and

plastic sheeting was used to line the inside of the worst of the classrooms to help with wind and waterproofing; unbelievably the children had found them cold. Sgt Cannings and Sgt Coetzer were both instrumental in the building work and had support from a local carpenter called Jacob, a father of one of the children.

Although the money we had only stretched so far, the OC had concurrently launched a social media campaign for children’s clothing. This had a huge and unexpected response, leading to a multitude of different sized boxes, full of clothing arriving at BASS. Then within BASS people were asked to purchase a desk for the school and although having donated generously already, numerous people purchased one. This meant a second visit to the school was arranged, this time to deliver clothes and desks.

As our time in Kenya draws to an end, BASS take great pride in having contributed in some small way to the lives of the children at Macharia School. We were humbled by the gracious and appreciative nature of the children and the teachers. However the impact was not all one sided; the interaction with the children has been a real highlight of our time in Kenya, for everyone involved. The endeavour we started will be continued by FET3 on their arrival, but BASS FET2 wish the school good luck in the future, remembering the school’s motto: “Effort Ever”.


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nijmegen

The 100th Nijmegen International Four Day Marches or ‘Vierdaagse’ (Dutch for ‘Four Days’) took place over the period 19 – 22 Jul 16 in the Netherlands.

Teams and individuals from all Services and Cadet Organizations took part to form the

British Military Contingent (BMC). Participants were required to march approximately 40 kms over different routes on each of the 4 consecutive marching days. The Marches are the largest event of their kind in the world attracting 45,000 participants, including 5,000 military from over 30 nations. The BMC was made up of 800 personnel making us the second biggest military contingent behind the Dutch.

The Army Air Corps Female team was made up of 11 serving personnel from different AAC Units within JHC, lead by WO2 Ally McIlroy. After completing

the qualification weekend in April at RAF Cosford, which saw us march 50 miles, we were nearly certain of a place within the BMC. The months leading up until Nijmegen were spent training, as and when people could fit in a few miles during the working day, or over the weekends. So after a final team briefing on the 15th July giving the ladies an insight of what to expect, and some pretty pictures of blistered feet from previous years, the realization had set in of the 167.6km we had laid before us!

The team left early on the 16th July from Middle Wallop for the long drive to Nijmegen via the Channel Tunnel. Our home for the week was Heumensoord Camp (HC) which is situated 3

miles south of Nijmegen in a nature reserve. HC is declared an official Dutch Military Barracks during the Nijmegen Marches and, with some 6000 personnel, it is the largest barracks in the Netherlands.

The following day was an acclimatisation day involving a 38km Arnhem Airborne cycle trip, which included, the historic Battlefield sites of Arnhem, visiting the John Frost bridge, named after Major General John Frost, who commanded the forces that reached and defended the bridge during the Battle of Arnhem, the Rescue Monument, Doorwerth Castle, the Airborne Monument at Heelsum and the Airborne War Cemetery where we paid our respects. Airtpr Pamela Gamble laid a wreath (1) on behalf of the team.

day 1We got get up at 0230hrs to get our admin done for a 0430hrs start; the initial 18km to the first rest stop came quickly. The support from the locals was fantastic with hundreds turning

out to wish us good luck. Some pulled their sofas out from their homes and played inspirational dance music through speakers. Children lined the March route, some just hoping for a high-five from a soldier, others patiently standing with bowls full of chewy sweets, marshmallows, fruit etc. to offer to weary marchers. The kms were very soon down to single figures and before we knew it we were marching back into the social tent at Heumensoord Camp. Our arrival caused a big cheer – our unique matching pink aviator glasses and synchronized curtsies certainly made our team stand-out! The weather on our first day topped 28 degrees with some heat rashes and sore feet amongst our team, although morale remained high. 45km complete, 122.6km to go.

day 2 We set off at 0405hrs, with some local people out on the streets (some from the night before) cheering us on. The temperatures reached 34 degrees with 80% humidity but our team coped

well by ensuring we were fed, hydrated, and reapplied sun cream at each rest stop.

At the town of Wijchen, there is a memorial for the 6 crew of a Lancaster Bomber LM325 that perished when their plane was shot down on 23 Jun 1943; we stopped here for a few minutes to pay our respects, before carrying on back to HC. 83km complete, 84.6km to go.

day 3 Renowned for being the toughest day of marching as it includes seven hills. However, in comparison to the hills in the UK that we had all been training on, the hills in Nijmegen were gentle inclines and the day passed by quickly, our bodies now adapting to the daily routine of long-distance marching. As usual the local people were out in force, cheering us along the entire route and giving us strength to finish. As we finished day three Mr Peter Williams (2) (Ex QM 3 Regiment Army Air Corps who played a major role in the transitional move to Wattisham airfield) greeted us with a cheer and bought us each a drink. The evening brought more excitement as we learnt we had been crowned the Best British Army Team 2016. With this fantastic news the ladies were on a high, and were determined to finish even though some had pretty nasty blisters. 122.5km compete, 45.1km to go.

day 4As to be a typical day in Northern Ireland (weather wise, 4 seasons in one day!) as we left the first rest stop we were informed by the march controllers that there was an imminent thunder storm. So no sooner than you say Garry Gortex, it was on top of us. So for the next 3 hrs we were heads

down, only looking up every so often to laugh and joke with other teams, with water sloshing around in our boots only adding to the sore feet and blisters already in place (3). By early afternoon the sun had emerged once again and we had the finish line in our sights. A quick stop to wring out the socks and re-apply tape to our feet, we were on the home straight to our last rest stop at Charlemagne Field. This is just 5km from the finish line, and it was here we received our hard earned medals to wear with pride during the victory parade into Nijmegen City. Both I and Capt McLeman were given a medal with a crown to show it was our second time completing the Nijmegen marches.

The last 5km march into Nijmegen City had a festival atmosphere to it, like nothing we had experienced before, with crowds of people 8 or 9 deep whooping, hollering, high-fiving and handing out gladioli as we passed. It was a true hero’s welcome with even King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands in attendance to take the final salute alongside Maj Gen Stanford MBE GOC Support Command and Brigadier Bell GOC HQ BFG.

Out of a total of 47,166 participants taking part in 2016, 4,609 marchers did not finish, dropping out with heat injuries and severely blistered feet. We can now look back and be proud of having overcome the major challenge presented by the Nijmegen marches. We had tested our physical and mental endurance but had showed teamwork, strength and perseverance throughout, with our team finishing complete and winning the Best British Army Team Award 2016(4).

Marches2016

Written By: WO2 Ally McIlroy JHC

Marching in the rain.

Airtpr Pamela Gamble laying a wreath at War memorial in Arnhem.

Team members with Mr Peter Williams.

Team with Nijmegen Medals and Best Team Award.

Written By: Lt Andy Charlton

Working with the Community

Members of 25 OCF Course from 846 NAS volunteered for the day at Bath

Cats and Dogs Home. After a welcome brief and introduction by the volunteer coordinator, the course was shown around the extensive site to view the accommodation and exercise areas for the multitude of dogs, cats and other animals at the home. The course was then split into two groups in order to conduct various volunteer activities around the site. One group were assigned the task of repainting a perimeter fence dressed as Ghostbusters in fetching white onesies. Finishing

this they were then let loose on the dog exercise areas to jet wash, weed and strim. The second group were given the glamorous task of weeding the entrance and car park of the home, as well as shovelling over a ton of woodchip approximately six feet. On completion of the various tasks, the course were given the opportunity to take two pairs of dogs out for a walk in the grounds surrounding the site, before returning to socialise with the feline residents. The home was incredibly grateful for the hard work put in by the course and are looking forward to more military groups visiting in the future.

846 nas oCf


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Merlin Mk3s prove their mettle in day-long

Deploying at short notice to locations across the globe is something all Commando Helicopter Force aircraft and personnel must be ready for.

One of Gibraltar’s famous Barbary apes keeps a watchful eye on a Merlin Mk3 as

one of Commando Helicopter Force’s squadrons returns to the Rock. Personnel from 846 NAS were in Gibraltar in January this year but you can never make too many trips to the Med. So they returned to the British Overseas Territory on the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula to enjoy some subtropical summer weather. Most of the Rock’s upper area is covered by a nature reserve, home to around 230 Barbary macaques, known as the famous apes of Gib.

These are the only wild apes or monkeys found in Europe and are red-listed as their population declines. But there was no monkeying around for the flying arm of the Royal Marines during Exercise Barbary Commando 16, the aim of which was to train students from the Operational Conversion Flight. Two of the Royal Navy green helicopters left their base at RNAS Yeovilton for the day-long journey to the Rock, via France, Spain and Portugal. “This has been yet another first for the Commando Merlin,” said Detachment Commander Lt Cdr Alex Hampson.

“We have proved the utility of range and speed available with Merlin by deploying at short notice to an airfield over 1,400 flying miles away with just two stops for fuel in a single day.” While on the Rock, the Junglie squadron also teamed up with the Gibraltar Boat Squadron for some winching training.

HMS Scimitar, her sister Sabre and three Pacific Rigid Inflatable Boats are crewed by 26 regular Royal Navy, Royal Marine and Royal Naval Reserve personnel. Together they make up the Royal Navy Gibraltar Squadron, tasked with protecting the seas surrounding Gibraltar and supporting exercises and operations in the area.

Commanding Officer of

gibraltar transitScimitar Lt James Bradshaw said: “Gibraltar Squadron regularly assist with the training of other units as they pass through Gibraltar’s waters, such as the arrival on the Rock of 846 Squadron. “We may be required at short notice to operate with helicopters and this exercise has proved invaluable, ensuring that we would be ready to do so.”

Lt Cdr Hampson added: “We

have been winch transfer training with the Gibraltar Patrol Boat Squadron to collectively increase our joint capabilities. “These opportunities don’t present themselves very often, it was a pleasure to operate with these RN vessels whilst hopefully assisting their mission.”

846’s aircrew and engineers only spent a few days in Gibraltar before completing the flight back to Somerset. Mainly crewed by students, the continental flights served as one of the final elements needed to become qualified Commando

Merlin pilots and aircrew. Instructor Lt Jon Moore said:

“This route is absolutely perfect – it gives the students two sea transits, multiple countries and a fair distance to comprehend in the lead-up planning and the flying.”

Newly-appointed Commanding Officer of 846 NAS Lt Col Will Penkman said: “Exercise Barbary Commando 16 has yet again proven the ability of Commando Merlin to deploy at range, with aircrew and engineers keen to support the contingent capability which continues to evolve within CHF.”


finally takes off On Wednesday 14th September, after more than

six months in the planning, the three centenary

scheme Chinooks finally came together for a one-

off celebratory flight; departing from RAF Odiham

for a photographic tour of southern England.

Before 2015 the Royal Air Force went more than 25 years without painting a special

commemorative scheme on a Chinook aircraft. Turn the clock forward by 18 months and the UK Chinook Force now has a trio of them; each celebrating 100 years of three key Squadrons.

It seems like just yesterday that the first of the three, the 18(B) Squadron Chinook, rolled out of the Serco paint shop and was presented to the media at RAF Odiham. It was back in May 2015 when the whole centenary project became a reality and since then it’s just got bigger and bigger; 27 Squadron quickly joined the team with ‘Nellie’ and then earlier this year, 28 Squadron at RAF Benson with their brightly coloured offering. All three specials were designed and painted by the

same team; Flt Lt Andy Donovan handled the design work and approvals process while the extremely talented team at Serco brought the designs to life.

As soon as the team knew

that there would be three special scheme Chinooks, plans were put in motion to get all of them together for a very special photographic flight to commemorate the occasion.

The initial flight was scheduled for late May but at very short notice the flight was scrubbed. The RAF Chinook fleet is in demand around the globe so it’s easy to understand that a flight of this nature might

fall to the bottom of the ‘to-do’ list. Flt Lt Donovan started to analyse Squadron diaries and the team worked as hard as they could to reschedule the flight as soon as possible but operational commitments and aircraft serviceability meant that the earliest it could all be rescheduled for was September 15th.

“We were determined that if this flight ever happened, we would

do this properly and we knew this would require lots of planning. We had to consider the potential for less than ideal weather in September and ensure we had a backup option if conditions weren’t favourable.” said Flt Lt Donovan, Our main focus was on developing an unrestricted profile so we could maximize opportunities if we got lucky. I began by analysing sun bearings and elevations in the week selected and then planned a route that hit some stunning UK landmarks whilst keeping us orientated correctly on each leg; ensuring illumination of both the aircraft and backdrops simultaneously. We operate in some of the most congested airspace in the world in southern England so all of this had to fit around that too.”

With less than a week to go everything was looking good but at the last minute the Met Office forecasts alluded to a possible front coming in on the day of the flight which would ultimately lead to less than ideal conditions. The team at RAF Odiham made the call to reschedule the flight for the Wednesday, a day that by the look of it was going to be wall-to-wall sunshine all day long. Good news; the engineers now had 24 hours less notice to deliver but everything was theoretically ready to go, including the Lynx AH.9 photo-ship that was kindly provided by 657 Squadron.

So finally, on Wednesday September 14th, after two

scrubbed flights and countless challenges in between, the three commemorative chinooks assembled at RAF Odiham and took off together for a very special centenary flight.

It was a memorable day for not only me personally but for the small team at Odiham Paintshop to finally see the three historic art work pieces displayed in all their glory; having been hand- crafted with many hours of blood, sweat and tears by such a small team” said James Littlejohn. To be finally recognised after over a year of waiting was a momentous occasion and was the final piece in our puzzle.”

Mr Ian Harding is a regular contributor to the UK military aviation press and, living locally to Odiham, was lucky enough to be invited to the launch. He later commented on the day’s preceedings:

“It is extremely difficult to sum up the historical importance of the events I witnessed on Wednesday both at RAF Odiham and later that evening at Everleigh Drop Zone on Salisbury Plain. Having spent almost 50 years following aviation in many guises, I can honestly say I have witnessed few events which match the sight of the three Odiham and Benson special painted Chinooks appearing from behind Sidbury Hill silhouetted against a descending but golden sun.

It was indeed a ‘wow’ moment

which heightened when all three aircraft returned with the sun now illuminating their anniversary markings like never before. During a week of national remembrance encapsulated by the ‘poppy’ at the head of the 18 Squadron cab, the formation`s slow initial descent was movingly poignant. Six months of preparation by so many people; senior officials, aircrew, engineers, media etcetera, and it had been nailed perfectly. Even the weather behaved!”

What helped make this event special and distinguish it from many is that the crews obviously made the call to route their formation to the Plain in the hope that photographers and walkers who visit Everleigh and the local area frequently would be around and hence have the opportunity to witness this brief moment of history. I can only imagine the positivity this generated in the air when they looked down to see people gazing at them. Everyone waited to see what the aircrew would do before sensibly positioning themselves having noticed by now that an RAF photographer was in attendance and positioned. Everyone behaved impeccably.

The sense of anticipation for us as each aircraft then shared the lead at the head of a ‘triangular’ formation; 28 Squadron, then 27 and finally 18, before finally stacking, was intense. It was

Written By: Tom Mercer

Centenary Flight

30 minutes of unbridled joy.” There was an emotional

and moving sense of occasion throughout which was enhanced by the history and relevance of each aircraft’s anniversary scheme. With the sun descending, each provided a glowing but appropriate tribute to 100 years of operational service from each squadron. Wednesday for all sorts of reasons, was the perfect way to bring them together and focus minds on this. Ultimately, a century of anything should be celebrated and it has been done well. Miss the opportunity…and it is lost forever. The image of these three Chinooks together will make people smile within military circles and outside for years to come. You cannot put a price on that! As the three aircraft departed Everleigh’s overhead for the final time, those fortunate to witness the formation simply looked to the sky and clapped, which summed the mood up perfectly.”

Having conducted a flight over some spectacular landmarks, the four-ship flight returned to base at just gone 1800 hours with the job well and truly completed. On this occasion everything paid off and as you can see from some of the work featured in this article, the photographic team at RAF Odiham captured some spectacular imagery; they really are a team to be reckoned with. Centenary flight done!

operaTions


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JHC aH safeTy & assuranCeCol James AndersonE: [email protected]: 01264 381257

JHC so1 air safeTyWg Cdr Russ Norman RAFE: [email protected]: 01264 383393

JHC so1 ground safeTyMr Brian BaileyE: [email protected]: 01264 383391

JHC so2 fligHT safeTyLt Cdr Stuart ‘Butch’ Cassidy RNE: [email protected] T: 01264 381534

JHC so2 safeTy poliCySqn Ldr Bob Higgins RAFE: [email protected]: 01264 381131

JHC so2 risk ManageMenTSqn Ldr Ben Coleman RAFE: [email protected]: 01264 381563

JHC so2 safeTy poliCy & regulaTionSqn Ldr Andy Gray RAFE: [email protected]: 01264 381514

JHC so3 risk ManageMenTLt ‘Bing’ Chandler RNE: [email protected]: 01264 381132

JHC so3 assuranCeCapt Gavin Bosher AACE: [email protected]: 01264 381151

JHC so3 analysisreCruiTingE: [email protected]: 01264 381563

Meet the Team

JHC so3 daeMsWO1 Ian FowlerE: [email protected]: 01264 784668

JHC so2 safeTy Case 1Ch47, Pu2, N3 & Aviation DH FacingMaj John Osborne ParaE: [email protected]: 01264 381135

JHC so2 safeTy Case 2Me, Lx & WCMaj Russ Bothwick R SignalsE: [email protected]: 01264 381515

JHC so2 safeTy Case 3AH, Isl/Def & GzMaj Jonathan Gilbert REMEE: [email protected]: 01264 381472

JHC so2 safeTy Case 4Sq, Bell 212, WK & UASMaj Ant Atkinson-Willes AGC ETSE: [email protected]: 01264 381486

JHC duTy offiCerOffice HoursT: 01264 381490Out of HoursT: 07717 451970

JHC air safeTy BranCH duTy pHone(Rota within Safety Team)Out of HoursT: 07990 550427

JHC air safeTy TeaM assisTanTsMaj Mishap AACChief Cause RNSgt Slip RAF

visit: www.lzdzonline.co.uk lZdZ / issue 3, 2016 1918 issue 3, 2016 / lZdZ the Jhc delivering Joint success on operations

safeTy

We all acknowledge that safety plays an extremely important role

throughout all facets of Defence and we at the JHC Safety Team strive to provide the best service we can to enable the safest environments possible for those not just on the Front line but all those parties that support it. From fighting fires, to vehicle incidents, or aircraft accidents, we must endeavour to reduce the risk to our people and equipment and to do this we need to both know how our people and equipment operate but also how they integrate together.

In this and the following edition we are going to highlight factors regarding the Human/Machine Interface, particularly pertinent with the considerable amount of transitions being conducted from older analogue configured aircraft to much more complex digital ones.

We have been supported by an extremely experienced aviator, who has provided a very relevant example of how things can go wrong and what we should learn from it. Although the case study is based on the Super Puma, there are lessons for us all!

HuMan/MaCHine inTerfaCe – suMBurgH super puMa aCCidenT parT 1As part of the introduction of Puma 2, I have been keeping an eye on the accidents and incidents from the North Sea and Oil/Gas Industry to see what we can learn from others. The reason for a Puma pilot to do so is simple. Puma 2 has an advanced digital Aircraft Flight Control System (AFCS) which, for a UK military helicopter, is a bit of a leap forward in technology. The AFCS is there in some form most of the time and requires a significant change in flying mentality.

It can be flown, and often is, manually in long-term attitude retention mode where all the basic concepts taught at DHFS and beyond still apply. Alternatively, it can be flown using upper modes such that the pilot input is to demand things and for the computers in the AFCS to make them happen. In this case, the pilot goes from a direct interaction

with the aircraft to a monitoring role in which the mantra is “is the aircraft doing what I demanded?” If the answer is no, then it is generally the pilot who has caused the error. To prevent this, a deeper understanding of how the system works, its logic and its levels of authority are needed. The biggest single concern is that crews should at no time believe the AFCS has sole control nor should they abdicate to it. The crew must remain “in the loop” and in control of the aircraft at all times even if not physically moving the flight controls themselves; the Human/Equipment Interface.

To illustrate where we can learn from industry, I will draw some lessons from a civil Super Puma accident which occurred on 23 Aug 13 just short of Sumburgh. In this tragic event, the crew were asked to carry an extra passenger back from an oil field 248 nm NE of Aberdeen. This simple change of plan required a fuel stop to be built into a trip that

had been planned without one. This would seem simple to JHC aircrew but the crew decided that they would divert to Sumburgh for their refuel even though the latest weather they had received showed conditions were deteriorating and by the time they commenced their approach the cloud was between 200-300 ft above ground and the visibility was less than 3km. As a result, they ended up conducting most of the transit, join and approach in Instrument Meteorological Conditions.

Indeed, the whole trip up to the Final Approach Fix was fairly routine with the crew holding to SOPs throughout and mostly the aircraft was operated in a 4-axis configuration. (A bit of jargon: in 3-axis control the aircraft is controlled by pitch, roll and yaw and, in 4-axis control, the collective is also utilised by the AFCS).

The duty runway at Sumburgh was 09 which gave the crew a non-precision LOC/DME approach with a Minimum Decent Altitude (MDA) of 300ft, therefore in cloud. The Captain, who was the pilot flying, elected to carryout a speed reducing approach in a 3-axis configuration using a fixed Rate of Descent (ROD) of 500 ft per min. This technique was routinely utilised in the N Sea though it was not the company SOP and has ROD controlled by the pitch axis. This configuration means that the pilot manually controls the airspeed through the collective. This configuration

is termed a “Mix-Mode” due to the abnormal sense of the flying controls. The approach commenced normally and all heights and ranges remained within tolerances to 1000 ft where the crew confirmed that they had achieved the stabilised criteria for the approach. The speed had also settled at 80 kts which was the briefed target from the Captain. However, he did not set sufficient Tq to maintain the desired airspeed, 80 kts, and commanded ROD. The AFCS simply did what it was commanded to and pulled the nose gently up to maintain the ROD. Probably due to the weather, both crew were so focused on the approach they failed to properly monitor the primary flight indications; even when they went through their MDA without the required references. The Crew Resource Management (CRM) of this aspect will be covered in the next edition. They had on two occasions noted that their airspeed was not what they briefed but on both occasions failed to make the correct positive correction. At 100 ft, the Captain applied 120% Tq but as the airspeed was below 30 kts and the ROD above 1000 ft per min the outcome was inevitable and the Aircraft Accident and Investigation Board (AAIB) stated entry into Vortex Ring as the cause of the accident.

There are several lessons here, some of which will be covered in the next edition, but having stated the importance of monitoring the AFCS at the start,

JHC safety Team

this event truly highlights the dangers of not paying attention. It is highly probable that, had the crew utilised a 4-axis technique, where vertical speed was controlled through the collective channel and airspeed through the pitch channel (the SOP incidentally), this accident would have probably not happened. Manufacturers were obviously alive to the issue though. Puma 2 shares its AFCS with the EC225 and EC725. In these variants and those after them, if the airspeed reduces below 65kts for 5 secs in 3-axis configuration, the AFCS deploys a protection mode immediately installing airspeed on the pitch channel and switches the vertical/Alt control to the collective.

It should be noted that the lesson here is applicable to simpler aircraft as well and is a cautionary reminder

of the importance of vigilance by both

the handling and non-handling pilots during the busiest phases of flight.

MaJor MisHap aaC


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Written By: Captain Geoff Brannigan, 1st Aviation Regiment, 16 Aviation Brigade, Australian Regular Army

long lookExchange Programme

Over the last four months I’ve had a great opportunity to work with the Air Manoeuvre Planning Training Advisory Team as part of the Exchange Programme Long Look.

The aim of the exchange has been to develop knowledge on UK military aviation – specifically

attack helicopter and amphibious operations – to take back and apply to our Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter squadrons back in Australia. Coming across in late May from my home base in Darwin, the Waterloo Lines in Warminster were a very different and welcome change. Unfortunately though, the trip did happen to coincide with the English rugby team’s successful tour of Australia – but we don’t talk about that!

After settling in with some range introductions to the SA-80 and Glock 17 it was clear that I should stick to what I know, so I was off to the AH familiarisation course at Middle Wallop. Covering off on AH systems and capabilities proved very beneficial and brought context for my next placement aboard HMS Ocean on the return leg from Ex BALTOPS. Meeting up with 656 Squadron in Kiel, Germany, I was welcomed aboard and was fortunate to spend a week learning first-hand about all aspects of embarked AH operations as we sailed back to the UK. I definitely have a greater appreciation for the effort that goes into working from a ship and will hopefully be able to apply some of the lessons learned as we undertake similar exercises in Australia, not least how to navigate bulkheads.

A quick turnaround on land and I was down to RAF St Mawgan

to participate in Ex Joint Venture. Over the course of the exercise I was able to work in SO3 Aviation roles, gaining an insight into JHF and 3 Div HQ operations as part of the Standing Joint Force HQ construct. Experiencing HQ operations on the exercise proved to be very interesting and I learned a great deal from all involved. Many of the operational challenges were very similar to those we experience back in Australia for equivalent exercises, so it was impressive to see the push towards integrating new and developing capabilities in preparation for their introduction to service.

Following Ex Joint Venture I was fortunate to visit the Commando Helicopter Force at RNAS Yeovilton. During the brief visit I was given a good insight into the work CHF does and the challenges they face through some useful Q&A with operations staff, all topped off with a flight in the Wildcat simulator. As the Australian Defence Force develops our own amphibious operations in the near future it’s clear we stand to learn a lot from organisations like CHF.

While the UK summer was putting on a belter I took a quick

break for a cultural campervan tour of Western Europe before returning to work in mid-August. The next placement had me accompanying the AMPTAT Judgemental Training Team in support of the AH Conversion to Role course on Ex Crimson Eagle in California. Observing the work of 653 Squadron along with all the support staff revealed the immense effort invested in creating quality AH pilots with a depth of aircrew training beyond any I had seen before. The value and effectiveness of such high standard judgemental training for aircrew development is a key lesson I will take home and look to improve within our own training continuum.

On return from California it was another quick turnaround to RAF St Mawgan, this time to attend the PR301 Joint Personnel Recovery Planning and Operations Course. Delivered by Defence

SERE Training Organisation staff, the PR 301 course provided a good insight into the requirements for effective personnel recovery operations and their growing importance in operational level planning, particularly across multinational environments.

At the completion of my exchange period there are a lot of people I would sincerely like to thank for making it such a great experience. All the staff from ATIL, 653 Sqn, 656 Sqn, CHF, 3 Div HQ, DSTO and the many others I’ve worked with in my time in the UK, you’ve all helped me learn a great deal and made it an excellent trip. Special thanks to AMPTAT, the training value created by your organisation cannot be understated and is something we strive towards achieving back home. I’m very grateful to all of you for your guidance and help during my time and I hope to be able to return the favour someday. Last but not least, many thanks to Maj Tom Jamieson for organising it all, you’ve consistently gone far beyond expectations to ensure the exchange covered as much as possible and I am very appreciative of all your efforts.

RAF Reserve Squadron

Marks 20 years of operational support606 (Chiltern) Squadron marked 20 years of support to helicopter operations around the globe today with a special ceremony at RAF Benson.

The Squadron was formed in 1996 as the Helicopter Support Squadron and was given the mantle

606 (Chiltern) Squadron three years later. Since its formation, the Squadron has seen hundreds of personnel deployed on operations and exercises around the world supporting Chinook, Puma, Merlin, Apache, Lynx, Gazelle and Sea King helicopters.

Flight Sergeant Andrew Scholey was one of the first to join the Squadron and has deployed many times over the past 20 years. He explained: “I was attested in September 1996 and I’ve been with the Squadron ever since, both as a part time volunteer reserve and as a full time reserve. I was one of the first squadron members to be called up back in 1999 and we went to Albania for 6 weeks. Since then I’ve worked with 33 Squadron, which included a couple of tours in Kosovo; then I went to Iraq where I did two tours and also two in Afghanistan. My favourite memories of the past 20 years include many from my overseas deployments such as tasking British helicopters in Iraq. I’ve also back-filled for the Duty Operations Controllers at RAF Odiham but the deployments

ended around three and a half years ago when I became a full time reservist. Now I look after all the training on the squadron, preparing everyone else for whatever roles they may need to do in the future.”

In the last two decades, Reservists from 606 Squadron have deployed on operations and exercises across the world including Iraq, Afghanistan, Morocco and the USA. From engineers to drivers, operations staff to regiment, the primarily ground-based personnel work alongside their Regular counterparts to reinforce the UK’s Support Helicopter Force. Boards in the Squadron Headquarters at RAF Benson proudly remember all the hours away from home, noting over 100 medals awarded for operations in Iraq, Kosovo, Bosnia and Afghanistan as well as Volunteer Reserve Service Medals, Lord Lieutenant’s Certificates and MBEs for squadron members.

The 20th anniversary event centred on a parade of over 50 Squadron personnel held in front of the Officers’ Mess, followed by an all ranks dinner. The parade was attended by numerous senior supporters of the Squadron, with the Air Officer Commanding No

22 (Training) Group, Air Vice-Marshal Andrew Turner acting as Reviewing Officer. The AOC has seen first-hand the achievements of 606 Squadron over the past 20 years in supporting the UK Support Helicopter Force; having flown on 19 operational tours and commanded various UK helicopter forces around the world.

Also in attendance at the parade were Air Vice-Marshal Lord Beaverbrook, the Commandant General of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force, Group Captain Gavin Hellard, Inspector of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force, Honorary Inspector Generals of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force, Air Marshal Ian Macfadyen and Air Vice-Marshal Barry Newton, as well as the Master and Clerk for the Worshipful Company of Lightmongers and representatives from the South East Reserve Forces and Cadets Association.

Squadron Leader Alex Redman, the Acting Officer Commanding 606 (Chiltern) Squadron, said: “We currently have over 140 personnel, including part-time volunteer reserves and permanent staff. We cater for 10 different trades: our main trades are MT, supply, chef, engineers, regiment and operations and we have ranks from Aircraftman up to Squadron Leader. It’s a diverse squadron, from direct entrants to retired Regulars, who all bring something different to the table to make us the effective unit that we are today.”

He continued: “Over the past 20 years the Squadron has deployed anywhere that the support helicopter force goes; any operation that the helicopter squadrons have been on in the last 20 years have been supported by 606 Squadron in a variety of roles. This year alone we have had personnel deploy to Afghanistan, the Falkland Islands and Cyprus, so we’re maintaining our support to the Support Helicopter fleet worldwide whether on operations or exercise.”

The next deployment for the majority of the Squadron will be to the Falkland Islands in October, where they will integrate with their Regular counterparts in a variety of roles during Exercise AUTUMN KITE.



Heading HeadingTrainingaWards

The Awards ceremony for the Royal Air Force Photographic Competition took

place at the RAF Club on 16 September. Judged over 12 separate categories, it is intended to showcase the impressive talent that RAF Photographers demonstrate in supporting operations and telling the Royal Air Force Story.

ACAS, AVM Rich Knighton, presented the trophies and the RAF Support Helicopter Force did extremely well, picking up awards in the following categories:

The Photographic Section at RAF Odiham has worked really hard over the last 12 months to update their portfolio... and their efforts paid off!!

In addition, RAF Photographer SAC Nicholas Egan came 2nd place in the Image of the Year 2016 People’s Choice category with his image ‘Money In The Bank’. This

category is open to public a vote and there was only a couple of hundred votes between 1st and 2nd place from 18,000 votes overall. There were a total of nine images showing a variety of aspects across the Royal Air Force with Nick’s image of a Mk4 Chinook operating over the Solent demonstrating the immense capability of the Chinook helicopter and the professionalism in our commitment to UK Defence.

The Peoples’ Choice winner was announced on the day to a very tense audience and SAC Egan’s image did exceptionally well to come 2nd behind the Red Arrows picture. Well done, Nick!!

Picture shows ‘Money in the Bank’ – 2nd place for SAC Egan in the Peoples’ Choice category

An RAF Chinook makes a hard bank over the Solent during an Aircraft Handling Exercise to assess the development of new Pilots and Aircrew. Operating the RAF Mk4 Chinook, the crews participated in several scenarios, including confined spaces landing, flying over the sea, low level flight and under-slung loads. These sorties incorporated formation flying, which enabled Service photographers the opportunity to gain air-to-air photography experience.


Category position name station

Section Portfolio

Highly Commended

TEAM RAF Odiham

Video 1st Cpl Rob Travis RAF Odiham

Equipment 1st 2nd Highly Commended

Sgt Dave Rose SAC Nicholas Egan Cpl Rob Travis

RAF Odiham

Open Image 1st Cpl Neil Chapman RAF Benson

Judges’ Choice 3rd SAC Nicholas Egan RAF Odiham

Peoples’ Choice 2nd SAC Nicholas Egan RAF Odiham

RAF Support Helicopter

Force Photographers

scoop Top prizes at the

raf photographic

Competition 2016


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the egiment royal aartilleryrmy’s watchkeeper · 2016-10-14 · 4 issue 3, 2016 / lzdz foreword...

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