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T H E J H C D E L I V E R I N G J O I N T S U C C E S S O N O P E R A T I O N S
Celebrating
RAF100
J O U R N A L O F T H E J O I N T H E L I C O P T E R C O M M A N D
CONTENTS
Contents Issue 3, 2018
COVER STORY 19
RAF 100 Celebrations at RAF
Andover, RAF Benson and RAF
Odiham...................................... 08
HONOURS & AWARDS

Wings Presentation to 28
Commando Merlin Course........ 06
LESSONS CORNER
Using DLIMS.............................. 14
10
OPERATIONS
RAF Ensign Over Army HQ....... 07
661 Sqn – Support to Op 25
CABRIT ‘The story so far’.......... 26
CAPABILITY
The Commando Merlin MK4
Has Arrived................................ 16
Designing A Display
Masterpiece............................... 19
Joint Helicopter Support
Squadron (JHSS)
– RAF Benson............................ 20
Jeanne D’Arc Deployment
– A Snapshot from the Pacific... 24 20
PEOPLE
Chinook Support to
Poppy Appeal............................ 05
RAF 100 Baton Relay................. 12
RAF 100 at RAF Stafford........... 25
Queen’s Birthday Honours
List 2018..................................... 31
SAFETY
JHC Safety Team, Hang gliding
and Paragliding......................... 28
16
EDITORIAL SUBMISSION DATE…
MONDAY 3 SEPTEMBER 2018

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

FOREWORD
Foreword MeettheTeam
EDITORIAL
Editor: Lt Col Al Bambridge
E: Allan.Bambridge507@mod.gov.uk
T: 01264 382 086
–
SALES
Sales Manager: Laurence Rowe
E: laurence@lancepublishing.co.uk
T: 01536 526 678
–
DESIGNER
Designer: Holly Daniels
E: holly@lancepublishing.co.uk
T: 01536 526 671
–
PUBLISHER
This issue of LZDZ marks the Reconnaissance Teaming (ART), proving Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor,
zenith of RAF 100 celebrations and the concept of laser target designation, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering,
my congratulations go to all RAF we must ensure we continue to master the Northants NN16 8NL
basics and empower our junior personnel. T: 01536 512 624
I
personnel for this achievement.
This will promote leadership and prepare E: mike@lancepublishing.co.uk
t has been a busy period across the JHC to our people for the challenging environments W: www.lancepublishing.co.uk
support this milestone, from dinner nights they will encounter in the future. Company Registration No. 3253372
to charity events, and it culminated in the Change and budgetary constraints will –
RAF 100 flypast and parade in London continue for the foreseeable future. The PRINTER
where JHC helicopters and personnel took Modernising Defence Programme (MDP) Lance Print Ltd, 29/30 Stapledon Road,
pride of place at the head of the impressive continues and we are not likely to see the Orton Southgate, Peterborough PE2 6TD
array of RAF aircraft both past and present. outcomes or decisions until later this year. T: 01733 390 564
Life around the Command has continued Tied to MDP is the Rotary Wing Basing E: lanceprint@lanceprint.co.uk
at pace. 661 Sqn AAC has completed a Optimisation study which I know from my W: www.lanceprint.co.uk
very successful deployment in support of unit visits is a cause for concern for some –
Op CABRIT in Estonia, a first operational of you. I will ensure that as soon as any FURTHER INFORMATION
deployment for Army Wildcat. Puma continues decisions are made you will be informed. W: w ww.mod.uk/defenceinternet/
to support Op TORAL and as we go to press The Autumn period will continue to be aboutdefence/whatwedo/
3 Chinooks from RAF Odiham have achieved busy and will see JHC play an integral part airsafetyandaviation/jhc
IOC on an 18-month operational deployment in the largest Defence overseas exercise
to Mali on Op NEWCOMBE, in support of in recent years taking place in Oman, a
French operations in the Sahel. In addition to fantastic opportunity to consolidate skills and
the operational deployments, multinational training. As we approach the Summer leave
interoperability exercises have continued period, I urge you all to take some time to
with helicopters and personnel from CHF, recharge and reenergise and where you can
AHF, ARF and SHF working closely with our spend time with your family and loved ones.
NATO and coalition allies across the globe. For those who remain deployed over the
As we continue to hone our war fighting summer, keep safe and keep delivering.
skills, be it conducting complex deep
strike at scale exercises as seen recently Rear Admiral Jon Pentreath OBE RN
during Ex TALON GRAVIS, or Attack Commander JHC
PLEASE TURN TO PAGE 08 FOR THE COVER STORY

RAF 100 CELEBRATIONS
L Z DZ M a g a z i n e i s a l s o o n l i n e a n d c a n b e f o u n d a t : w w w. l z d z o n l i n e . c o . u k
4 ISSUE 3, 2018 / LZDZ THE JHC DELIVERING JOINT SUCCESS ON OPERATIONS

PEOPLE
Chinook Support to Poppy Appeal
O
n a very sunny excitedly, awaiting the Chinook.
May afternoon, Word soon came through that
the RAF Odiham the helicopter had lifted and
Engagements and was on its way, so the children
Media Team, along with the held hands and tried not to look
SWO went to Buryfields School up, which was quite difficult
in Odiham village to oversee for them. Flt Lt Stu Kynaston
the taking of a photograph. This brought all his display pilot
was no ordinary photograph skills to bear, so as not to blow
however; this particular snap any hats off and SAC Pippa
would be taken from the back Fowles, from the photographic
of a hovering Chinook. section, took the shots. After
The combined children of only ten minutes, the helicopter
Buryfields and Mayhill Schools departed to complete its tasking
would form a huge poppy shape and left behind some 400 very
on the Buryfields playing field, excited children (and teachers).
wearing black or red tops and The school will be using the
hats to colour the poppy. The images on cards, posters and
detailed organisation by Mrs calendars to raise money for two
Emma Flynn from Buryfields very well-deserving charities;
School, using coloured bean SSAFA and the Royal British
bags to show the children Legion. So, if you happen to see
exactly where to sit, meant them on sale in the village, put
that they found their places your hand in your pocket and
very quickly and sat chatting support these great causes.

AWARDS
Wings Presentation to 28
Commando Merlin Course
Rear Admiral J Pentreath Commanding Officer Joint helicopter Command was 846 Naval Air squadron’s
guest of honour at 28 Commando Wings Parade held at RNAS Yeovilton. 846 Naval Air Squadron
is the Commando Helicopter Force’s (CHF) training squadron, which trains new helicopter pilots or
converts existing helicopter pilots to fly the Merlin helicopter in CHF. It also trains existing Royal Navy
and Royal Marines personnel to become Aircrewmen in CHF’s Merlin and Wildcat helicopters.
Commando Pilot To be awarded their wings, operations; all of which same syllabus as the pilots,
Training – Merlin Pilots complete an extremely culminates in an exercise in demanding a high degree
After graduating from demanding course using field conditions with real time of knowledge and crew
Britannia Royal Naval College an advanced simulator facility tasking and an cooperation. Aircrewmen are
at Dartmouth, Fleet Air at RAF Benson and flying operational overlay. instrumental in the role of
Arm Student Pilots are the real aircraft from the Commando Merlin Mk3
trained initially on light RNAS Yeovilton. 846 Naval Commando Aircrewmen for undertaking operational
fixed-wing aircraft at RAF Air Squadron (NAS) provides Training – Merlin capabilities such as Load
Barkston Heath. They then a tailored course that Student Commando Lifting, Winching, Fast Roping
complete their Basic Flying results in a graduate being Aircrewmen in the Royal Navy/ and Confined Areas.
Training at RAF Shawbury able to competently operate Royal Marines can either
flying the single-engine Squirrel as part of a front line crew transfer across from other Future
helicopter. On completion with minimal further training. specialisations of mainstream From today the graduates
of the course Fleet After learning the handling RN/RM service or join will move to the frontline
Air Arm students are skills required to safely as direct entrants. After where they can expect
streamed to Wildcat or Merlin conduct flying by day, night basic training on the Squirrel to be involved in worldwide
Operational Conversion and when in cloud, they move helicopter, students complete operations in support of UK
Flights. Commando Merlin on to undertake all the the Joint Aircrewman Course Government Defence
Mk3 candidates remain at disciplines required on on the twin-engined Griffin Policy. The Commando Merlin
Shawbury, flying the twin operations. This involves low at RAF Shawbury. On Aircrew will join either 845
engined Griffin helicopter level navigation, Night Vision completion of the course NAS or 846 NAS, the
before continuing their training Goggle (NVG) flying, load students join the Operational two front line Commando
on the Merlin at RNAS lifting, mountain flying, Conversion Flight at 846 Merlin Squadrons at Yeovilton,
Yeovilton. formation and embarked NAS. The course follows the where they will be at 5

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

Aircrewman LH Emil Conway receiving his Flying Badge 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
days notice to deploy anywhere Those presented awards were:

around the world. The
origins of the Commando RECIPIENTS OF
Helicopter Force lie in the FLYING BADGES
Naval ship to shore helicopter
operations in the jungles Pilots
associated with the 1963 Lt Ben Lilley RN
Malayan Conflict. As a result Lt Micheal Plant RN
members of the Force are
known as “Junglies” and Aircrewmen
have built a proud heritage LH Emil Conway
since that time. With the LH Nathan Dennis
current geopolitical instability LH Tom Doyle
around the world and the LH Sam Geere
introduction of the new Sgt Dean Haddow RM
Aircraft Carriers, course Sgt Ben Chamley
members will find themselves
using their professional RECIPIENTS OF MERLIN
expertise, ‘Junglie cunning’ CONVERSION QUALIFICATION
and flexibility, not only over
the next few months but Pilots
for the rest of their Capt Steven Bishop AAC
Naval Careers. Lt Gareth Wardle RN

RAF 100
PEOPLE
CELEBRATIONS
at RAF Andover, RAF Benson and RAF Odiham
H
Q JHC played host Military unit to be equipped
to distinguished and with helicopters. It was in 2009
honourable guests the former airfield changed its
at RAF Andover’s name to Marlborough lines and Top Table: Top row: Gp Capt H Cormack, Gp Capt J Appleton,
Officers Mess for one night only. became home to Army HQ. Air Cdr A Smith, Gp Capt L Turner. Bottom row: Brig M
On 15 March 2018 the Officers With an abundance of parent Keating, AM S Atha, R Adm J Pentreath, AVM D Cooper.
Mess at RAF Andover was reborn Service guests in attendance
in recognition of the RAF’s the RAF 100 Dinner was both a of the critics. All made possible who seamlessly performed iconic
centennial birthday on 1 April privilege and fitting occasion to with the insightful creativity of Flt RAF Anthems to accompany
2018. The 100-year experiment recognise the humble beginnings Lt Rich Green and the enthusiastic dinner and the kind generosity
was placed under fashionable of the world’s first independent tri-service actors and contributions of the Old Sarum Aviation
scrutiny for guests to enjoy, mock Air Force and acknowledge within HQ JHC including the Museum for loaning several
and banter in true interservice the combined effort and input cameo role from DComd JHC. museum artefacts for the event
spirit and humour. The occasion from both the Royal Navy and Credit is due to the The Band to capture atmosphere and bring
was graced and honoured to the British Army to create the of the Corps of Royal Engineers a marker in history alive.
host two senior RAF guests; RAF as we know it today.
AM Atha and AVM Cooper. Three timely vignettes were
RAF Andover was a former interspersed throughout the
RFC unit and housed many RAF evening to bring to life the RAF’s
units between wars. During inception, notable operations,
World War II it was used by evolution through to what may
several operational flying have been, had the 100-year
units as well as the first British experiment played into the hands

2
018 marks the centenary the current Air Force and the
of the Royal Air Force, quite professionalism shown
and in addition to the by all who work here. 100
RAF’s comprehensive portraits were released over
schedule of events to mark the 100 days leading up to the
the occasion, RAF Benson centenary on 1st April 2018, Tile Competition for Secondary the opportunity re-engineer
has numerous plans to with the Station Commander’s School Art Students. The winners new Rocket Cars based off
celebrate through several local portrait concluding the project. of these 2 projects will win a visit the analysis of their previous
programmes. All of which we plan Gaining huge reach across to RAF Benson for the Day. cars performance. While it was
to deliver as well as managing Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, In addition to these main clear that each car was unique
the operational demands we it has also been featured in the events we have hosted an RAF and brilliant in its own way,
are faced with; as such, the RAF British Institute of Professional 100 inspired Cadet Easter more importantly, the students
100 team have worked hard to Photography magazine. Camp, a STEM Race for the Line were ecstatic witnessing their
develop a programme of events As well as our extensive School competition, and will soon run a creations speeding along the
that meets both intentions. Engagement Programme, our CAMO day with our local schools. race track in the Hangar.
Many key events will mark Families’ Day, Youth Muster and One of the most important Ultimately, Race for Line
Benson’s celebrations, including a CO’s Cup Sports Day will all things we can do for young encourages the next generation
our already successful 100 have a dedicated RAF100 theme. children is to teach them how to to pursue a career within Science,
Faces developed by our 3 very The School Engagement think and not what to think. A Technology, Engineering or
talented RAF Photographers. The Programme will involve visits competition that fits in seamlessly Mathematics (STEM), whether
project has aimed to highlight to several schools to increase with the RAF 100 themes; it be in the military or industry.
individuals, show diversity, awareness of the RAF, setting a Commemorate, Celebrate Foremost, the most essential
inspire future generations, but poem competition for Primary and Inspire, Race for the Line part about Race for the Line is
more importantly, to celebrate School Children and a Paint-a- Season 3 was an opportunity that it provided RAF Benson with
for RAF Benson to encourage an opportunity to give back and
children to be imaginative, engage with our local community
innovative and creative. through such a historical year.
Volunteers from RAF Benson 2018 has proven to be and
visited 7 schools in our local still promises to be an eventful
community to race the Rocket year so far, and RAF Benson is a
Cars the students had engineered unit worth celebrating - we look
from a block of foam, with some forward to your involvement,
reaching speeds as high as support and enjoyment
30.7 ms-1 (68.7 mph) and some over the next year!
as low as 7.6 ms-1 (17 mph).
With the Regional Final held
CONTINUED >>>
at RAF Benson, students had

PEOPLE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9
W
ith RAF100 fast So when they invited the
approaching back station to celebrate RAF100
in September with them it was a wonderful
2017, many opportunity to show the people
requests were being made for of Basingstoke how much their
events in the local community. support over the years has been
One of the most important appreciated and to fully involve
came from the Mayor’s Office them in the RAF100 occasion.
in Basingstoke. Basingstoke has Along with the Basingstoke
lived with the Chinook Force Branch of the Royal Air Forces
on its doorstep for many years Association, it quickly became
and has become extremely clear that as far as the town
proud of their association was concerned, they were
with the Chinook Force and a blank canvas, willing to
RAF Odiham as a whole. support our celebrations in
>>>
any way that they could. The final practice was observed
Plans were soon drawn up for by the Station Commander
a parade through London Road, and the SWO, both of whom
ending at War Memorial Park for were impressed by the
a ceremony to commemorate standard of drill achieved.
this grand occasion. A fly past The one factor that caused
was organised from 18 (B) everyone to hold their breath
Sqn and the icing on the cake was, of course, the weather.
was when we were told that Fortunately, the Met Office
the Central Band of the Royal pulled a few strings and ensured
Air Force Regiment would a glorious sunny day for us.
be able to attend – a really The parade consisted of RAF
exciting addition considering Odiham personnel, as well as
their extremely busy schedule a flight of veterans (showing
this particular year! that drill is a skill you never
Parade practices were soon lose completely), as well as
underway under the watchful the Air Cadets to represent
eye of the Parade Marshal, the future of the RAF. After
FS Palmer, and Odiham’s two setting off at 10:40 from the
qualified Drill Instructors, Sgt bottom end of London Road,
Williams and Cpl Farrington. the parade arrived in War

Memorial Park precisely on time and the Mayor of Basingstoke.
where they were greeted by Once the parade and
a crowd of approximately 500 ceremony were complete, the
people. A wonderful turnout public had the opportunity to
from Basingstoke to show their then engage up close with some
appreciation for the event. of our personnel by way of some
The ceremony started with a demonstration stands that had
perfectly timed flypast and been set up in the park itself.
then the commemoration of An early morning working party
RAF100 began under the proud had toiled through the morning
and watchful eye of numerous to setup the area before the
dignitaries, including the Lord- ceremony began and gave various areas of the modern RAF out and show that RAF100 is not
Lieutenant of Hampshire, Air the public the chance to see including the latest flying safety only about celebrating those in
Marshal Sir Roger Austin (Rtd) some of the equipment used in equipment and various weapons uniform, but also the families
in use by the RAF Regiment. who support us along the way.
>>>
Towards the end of the The day was a great success,
afternoon, the RAF Odiham with the public showing
Military Wives Choir provided their deep appreciation for
their vocals to sing the occasion RAF100 and for RAF Odiham
in particular. It was a day that
the station can look back on
with immense pride.

RAF 100
PEOPLE
BATON RELAY
Starting at the Royal Courts of using materials that symbolise Team on 8th April 2018. Despite
Justice and lasting 100 days, aircraft construction through the rainy weather, there was a
the relay featured people from the ages. Each baton carrier had great turn out from local families
across the RAF, the communities just a start and end point but the who gathered to support the
we serve and past members. method of transportation was left cyclists as they arrived with the
The baton, which features the down to each individual or team. baton. All those present had the
RAF crest and RAF100 logo, was The Baton was delivered to opportunity to have pictures
designed by young RAF recruits RAF Odiham by the RAF Cycling with the baton to commemorate
>>>
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.

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.

HEADINGCORNER
LESSONS
Lessons on DLIMS
– the Defence Lessons Identified
Management System
W
elcome once have in common is that they are • JHC has its own domain dlims.ahe.r.mil.uk/webpages/
again to lessons both ‘management systems.’ on DLIMS. This has been in parentview.aspx. (must be
corner, this edition A couple of key facts place for over 7 years and opened via Google Chrome).
focusses on DLIMS regarding DLIMS that as a result we now have
– the Defence Lessons Identified everyone should be aware: a corporate knowledge USING DLIMS AS A
Management System. Many of the • It is the tool used by the base / library of over 2300 SEARCH TOOL
readers of LZDZ will be familiar whole of Defence for the lessons and observations. One of the most useful functions
with ASIMS and the DASOR management of lessons. • It’s simple to use – all of DLIMS is its utility as a search
process, likely using it on a regular • It isn’t particularly well members of JHC (anyone tool, the search tool can be
basis, well DLIMS has no relation supported – the annual with a Dii / MODNET used by anyone (at the website
to ASIMS at all..! In fact is nothing budget to maintain / update account) can access it at the address above) as shown in
like it and the only thing that they the system is around £20,000. following address: https:// the following screenshots:
EVERYONE WITH AN ACCOUNT HAS THE SAME HOME SCREEN:
THE ‘ADVANCED SEARCH’ FACILITY IS LOCATED TOP LEFT OF THE HOME SCREEN:

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:
OTHER USES FOR DLIMS / exercise report / presentation). discussed. Every item raised where any actions carried out /
Of course, DLIMS isn’t just DLIMs guidance is contained from every exercise / operation changes introduced to resolve a
a library that can be used within J7/CI/05 which states that will be entered onto DLIMs lesson are logged and tracked.
for conducting searches. To the JHC DLIMS domain is “used by the HQ JHC Lessons staff
enable greater functionality to record the development / – creating additional records JHC LESSONS / USE OF
for the user and to add / edit progress of all JHC lessons.” for the corporate library. But DLIMS GOING FORWARD
/ update lessons a DLIMS In practice, on completion importantly, any lessons that The HQ JHC Lessons staff are
account is required – accounts of every major exercise or are adopted at the MJP will be continually striving to improve
can be granted through the operation the commanding JHC worked to resolution through our lessons process and broaden
HQ JHC Lessons Staff and unit / Avn TF should submit a the use of DLIMS – individuals the understanding and use
requests should be made PxR / PoR (in accordance with who are responsible for making of DLIMS amongst forces. If
through Lt Col Stephen J7/CI/030), a post exercise / changes / completing actions you have any questions at all
James (JHC SO1 Doctrine). operation presentation and need to track and update regarding DLIMS or JHC Lessons
Regular readers of lessons Military Judgement Panel (MJP) progress via DLIMS, thus please direct them to the HQ
corner will be familiar with the will follow up to 8 weeks after making DLIMS the information JHC Lessons staff, we will be in
two JHC Command Instructions the exercise / operation has management tool from which an touch with force and unit HQs
that detail our lessons process taken place. At the MJP, all of issue raised from an operation or in the near future to discuss
(J7/CI/05: Lessons management the LIs / observations raised exercise is worked / developed our lessons process going
and exploitation, J7/CI/030: within the PxR/PoR and detailed and ultimately resolved. In simple forward so don’t be surprised
Guidance on JHC post operation during the presentation will be terms, DLIMS becomes the area if you hear from us first.

“
CAPABILITY
The Commando Merlin of troops, providing underslung

load lifts and the other vertical
replenishment capability we
MK4 Has Arrived

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
AND SO SAID GUTO BEBB The aircraft is fully optimised for HMS Queen Elizabeth. clear the MTG needed Support
MINISTER FOR DEFENCE ship operations with features Each of CHF’s Merlin Helicopters (SH) to support them
PROCUREMENT WHEN that include automatic main squadrons has a defined role. internally within the task group
HE VISITED CHF AT RNAS rotor blade and tail folding, 845 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) and between the task group
YEOVILTON ON THE 24TH MAY. uprated undercarriage and and 846 NAS will both use the and shore because the MTG
He announced the delivery of the enhanced avionics and cockpit Cdo Me MK4 for amphibious will spend a lot time away from
first of a fleet of new helicopters features which were developed transport of troops and supplies shore because of force protection
designed for Royal Marines for the Royal Navy’s Merlin HM2 for 3 Commando Brigade. issues; avoiding aggressor missile
aircraft carrier operations. The helicopter. Folded, four Cdo Me 845 NAS is CHF’s High systems etcetera. They need an
Commando Merlin (Cdo Me) will sit in the footprint of one Readiness Squadron for aircraft with endurance which the
Mk4, has been upgraded to a Chinook helicopter. The aircraft contingency. This key role Merlin has with over 3.5 hours
modernised, marinised, faster and additionally features an upgraded is necessary to support the of fuel (standard range without
more powerful aircraft than its self-protection system, tactical Maritime Task Group (MTG) external tanks is 576 miles (927
predecessor. The Minister said: processor, and is fitted capable going forward following the kms)). The Cdo Me HC4 is a
“This new version of the Merlin of full instrument procedures to introduction of the UK’s new tactical aircraft, fully marinised
will provide an essential bridge allow global self-deployments generation of aircraft carriers. and it is strategic in that CO CHF
between sea and land for our through controlled airspace. CHF has assessed what the can self-deploy the aircraft from
Marines operating from ships, The aircraft has received the future operating environment is Somerset in Yeovilton to Cyprus
including our brand-new aircraft latest generation Defensive and where the threats are likely in less than 36 hours. The Cdo
carriers. This fleet will deliver Aids System which can identify to come from and have tied that Me can also be loaded into the
troops and supplies to the centre hostile weapons systems rapidly in with the future Commando back of a C-17 in approximately
of the action, be that a conflict and can initiate appropriate forces and the new carriers 18 hours, and can then be
zone or the site of a humanitarian tactics and countermeasures. that are coming into service. In flown anywhere in the world.
disaster, as well as providing The modifications are designed addition to the tactical movement
search and rescue cover”. to ensure it can now operate
The event saw the unveiling from sea including on the
of the first Cdo Me MK4 in a UK’s new aircraft carrier,
blaze of light, smoke and sound
whilst Royal Marines Commandos
exited the rear ramp before
the head and tail folded.
Background
CHF’s Merlin HC3/3A fleet
is currently in the process of
upgrade under the Merlin Life
Sustainment Programme (MLSP).
This will see all 25 aircraft
upgraded to HC4/4A standard.

“
environment or a fast jet pilot has flying environment. There are also
to eject, there is a requirement systems on board that are secure,
for some methodology for can direction find enabling crews
The Commando Merlin (Cdo Me) Mk4, recovery and CHF has a Joint to pick up personnel from precise
has been upgraded to a modernised, Personnel Recovery (JPR) ground locations. Going forward
marinised, faster and more powerful capability which it is training CHF will integrate with F-35s and
”
for. The Merlin is an exceptional other fixed wing assets that are
aircraft than its predecessor. aircraft for this role with its ramp, in the overhead protecting us.
three light General Purpose It is essential that CHF maintain
Much attention has been operation. CHF continue to Machine Guns (GPMG), ballistic force protection in this combined
focussed on the aircraft carrier work up packages to support protection, advanced Defensive operational environment. That
and the F-35Bs operating from both entities in the future. If for Aids Suite (DAS), tactical threat is very real and in the past
their decks with scant thought example the unfortunate happens processors, speeds in excess the UK has had to use USAF
for the integral part that CHF and a rotary or fixed wing aircraft of 160 knots and highly trained Combat Search and Rescue
Cdo Me HC4s will play in their goes down ashore in a threat crews specialised in the low level (CSAR) for the tactical recovery
IMAGES
courtesy of Mark
Bryan, Kevin Willis,
Simon Prior (Leonardo) CONTINUED >>>

CAPABILITY
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17
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.

CAPABILITY
Designing A Display
“As and ex-RAF serviceman, to
be involved in such a significant
Masterpiece
milestone as the RAF100 display
has been a real honour. This
project was one of the biggest
challenges I’ve undertaken
to-date, due to the size and
intricacy of the task. However
I could see right from the start
that this was going to be very
upgraded helmets now arriving rewarding for me personally. I’ve
in service at Odiham, there was always relished being challenged
an excess stock of the older type and to work along side Flight
which enabled the project. Lieutenant Andy Donovan again,
RAF Odiham’s Station who has led us to produce four
Commander, Group Captain huge paint designs on Odiham-
Lee Turner, has been incredibly based aircraft in recent years, I
supportive of the display team knew it was a team to make this
since he and 27 Squadron selected a memorable event. The icing on
the crew late last year. When the cake was being asked to carry
shown the design for the helmets out such a special design on his
he gave the project his backing crew’s helmets for each member
and that paved the way for 27’s of the prestigious display team!”
safety equipment specialists – Mr James Littlejohn
to start stripping down the The helmet was designed by
electronics from redundant Mk4 team co-pilot Flt Lt Andy Donovan
helmets ready for the paint bay and incorporates the eagle from
to begin their work. Luckily, with the Royal Air Force crest as it’s
upgraded helmets now arriving biggest feature. Amazingly, when
Helmets adorned with custom designs are a relatively in service at Odiham, there was you stand close to it you realise
common thing to behold in the world of military an excess stock of the older type that it’s white details are further
aviation, especially in the display world, but few come which enabled the project. embellished with black shadows
in as elaborate a form as the 2018 Chinook Display Leading the paint bay team at behind which is quite beautiful
helmets and even less are replicated seven times! Odiham is Mr James Littlejohn, but must have been incredibly
who learned his trade in the days fiddly to do once, let alone seven
T
he Chinook Display directing what markings were to when the RAF had its own painters times! So why seven? As we know
crews have for many be applied to a Chinook airframe and finishers. Now contracted out there are three pilots and three
years flown with painted for RAF100 the team turned their to Serco, the facility at Odiham is crewmen qualified on the display
helmets but these have attention towards celebrating with a busy one so James agreed to routine but another helmet has
tended to be simple in nature and their helmets…and what a result! assist the team in his own spare been painstakingly crafted for
consisting of stripes of the British RAF Odiham’s Station time. It was December 2017 when this year’s display manager; the
National or Squadron colours. For Commander, Group Captain the helmets arrived into the bay, intent being that it will be made
the RAF100 season the team felt Lee Turner, has been incredibly making it a 6-month project from available for people to view at air
that the time was right to produce supportive of the display team start to finish! Asking James shows whenever the team is able
something quite staggering, not since he and 27 Squadron selected about the RAF100 year, he was to achieve a ground footprint.
“
only to celebrate the milestone the crew late last year. When clearly keen to play his part. Flt Lt Donovan
but also to showcase the talents shown the design for the helmets
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 he gave the project his backing

delivering projects of this nature. and that paved the way for 27’s
The Station has abundant amounts safety equipment specialists
of experience in the field of to start stripping down the
decorating aircraft to celebrate electronics from redundant Mk4
big anniversaries in recent years helmets ready for the paint bay
but with an off-Station committee to begin their work. Luckily, with
THE JHC DELIVERING JOINT SUCCESS ON OPERATIONS LZDZ ISSUE 3, 2018 / 19

CAPABILITY
Joint Helicopter Support

Squadron (JHSS) – RAF Benson
THE JOINT HELICOPTER
SUPPORT SQUADRON CH47 lifting the 105 Light JHSS Loading a CH47 with supplies
CONTINUES TO OPERATE Gun in West Freugh for those isolated by snow in Cumbria
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 Op BOOMSTER and RAF personnel assisted the
landing sites, in order to maintain In early March the UK Royal Marines in the delivery
JHC operational capability. The experienced the most of these supplies, liaising with
Sqn has also supported the Joint significant spell of snow and low local police and the stranded
Expeditionary Force (JEF) LIVEX a National Standby team which temperatures since December villagers to ensure everyone
on Salisbury Plain Training Area, deployed on Op BOOMSTER 2010, rending some villages in remained safe during the storm.
which culminated in a capability in Carlisle loading CH47s from Cumbria isolated and short of
display in front of the secretary Odiham with essentials including food and fuel. On March 4th the BFSAI
of State for Defence, Chief of the fuel and food, before assisting JHSS National Standby team (sat JHSS has been integral in the
General Staff and other assorted the Police with liaison between at 2hrs NTM) was mobilised and UK Armed Forces commitment
dignitaries form both the UK the isolated locals and the Royal met the RAF Odiham Chinooks in the South Atlantic. At a
and abroad. Within the UK the Marines deployed to deliver at Carlisle Airport to load landowners request, the military
Sqn has continued to maintain the supplies on the ground. essential supplies. Both Army 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
CH47 lifting Jackal 2 in was completed with alacrity
Keevil Airfield on the JEF LIVEX and with no adverse effects
on operational output.

day, and JHSS supported this Commendations
by briefing VVIPs in London, Airtpr Scrivens received his
marshalling them to the waiting Advanced Apprenticeship in
aircraft and receiving them on Aviation Operations on the
the other end in SPTA where Ground from the Chief of Staff
they managed the HLS. Wing Commander Tandy this
month, a culmination of his hard
Op CABRIT work. To achieve this level 3
Op CABRIT is the NATO qualification he demonstrated
enhanced Forward Presence both practical competence and
in Estonia, and in April Wildcat technical knowledge in his trade
helicopters from 1 Regt AAC within the Corps. Additionally,
deployed as the first UK aviation LCpl Bodle received the award
asset in the area. JHSS were for the best graduate of the
requested to deploy one MAOT-L apprenticeship programme from
in order to create a HLS Directory across the AAC, winning an iPad.
to ensure safe operation across This award is a demonstration
the country. Flt Lt Armstrong of his dedication to his role
joined 661 Squadron AAC and as a JNCO, as he not only
worked with their groundcrew worked tirelessly to complete
and pilots to select and ratify his own apprenticeship but
HLSs in direct support of both then proceeded to use his
UK and NATO operations. experience to mentor and
develop junior Airtroopers.
RAF 100 Support Even whilst working in a busy
JHSS supported the Puma operational environment he took
force’s RAF 100 outreach by time to help others, guiding
Berlin Airshow Training, working tirelessly to reconnoitring local schools them and checking their work
The Squadron supported 27 deliver support to aviation tasks. and managing the HLSs as before it was submitted to the
Squadron’s role demonstration Pumas landed. This community Babcock, the apprenticeship
at the Berlin Airshow at short Joint Expeditionary Force engagement was at the provider. He is an excellent
notice, deploying a team to rig Live Exercise 2018 forefront of the station’s RAF ambassador and champion for
specialist loads and allow the The Joint Expeditionary Force 100 celebrations, and JHSS the scheme, and has earned this
CH47 to show off its triple hook (JEF) Live Exercise is a multi- were proud to be involved prize. Both are congratulated
capability. Cpl Goral led his team national, tri-service exercise as part of Team Benson. wholeheartedly.
to achieve a shining performance that takes place across the UK.
in front of an eager crowd and 3 Commando Brigade and 16
successfully demonstrated Air Assault Brigade commanded
the CH47s capabilities. the UK forces, whilst troops
from Denmark, Latvia, Lithuania,
Ex IMPERIAL ZEPHYR Sweden and Estonia were
Two JHSS MAOT-Ls deployed as embedded within the brigades.
part of the JHC advance party JHSS deployed in support of
to in order to ratify the HLS the Aviation Task Forces, with
directory for Southern California one team each led by a MAOT-L
and Arizona. All flying training embedding with each brigade,
makes use of land which falls operating with Apache, Chinook,
within USMC ranges or belongs Puma and Wildcat helicopters. WgCdr Tandy presenting AirTpr Scrivens
to the US Bureau of Land The teams were integral in with his Aviation Apprenticeship Award
Management. Before the aircraft moving stores to the exercising
begin flying it is necessary to troops and facilitating troop
liaise with the US authorities to movements for assaults. Of note,
ensure that sites are still available Cpl K Wakeham and his team
before visiting each site to ensure rigged engineering bridging
that they are suitable and safe. equipment for 33 Sqn to lift,
Many of the sites are easily proving the Pumas capability
accessible by air, but due to the to lift over 1.8 tonnes and fly it
nature of the desert they can be forward to ensure natural features
very difficult to access over land do not impede the advancing
this can make the ratification troops. MAOT-Ls were employed
process rather time consuming. in their recce role, siting HLSs
In addition to the MAOT-Ls, a for aviation assaults and areas
Heli Handling Team continues for FOBs to move to when the WgCdr Tandy presenting LCpl Bodle
to be instrumental to the Puma scenario dictated. The exercise with his AAC Apprenticeship Award
Force Desert Environmental ended with a demonstration

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CAPABILITY
847 NAS - Jeanne D’Arc Deployment - May 18

A Snapshot from the Pacific
“
from Lt Olly Leisk RN
F
It was my first time operating with the
S DIXMUDE departed
British detachment. It was interesting
the port of Darwin on 19
May just before midday
to work alongside their procedures
en route to its next which I believe worked well. It was also
destination. 847 NAS remain on very interesting to have two aircraft
board having just completed of two very different generations
the pre-planned changeover
of personnel. This includes a
flying together. The Alouette I fly is
new Detachment Commander, 53 years old and the first flight of
Maj Rich Moore and a new Ops
Commando Wildcat over the the Alouette 3 was in 1959. A good
officer, Lt Dan Burnett. Maj
northern Australian plain as contrast of the old and the very new.
Brett Collins USMC is also on
– LV Henri, Alouette Pilot
”
seen from the French Alouette
board as the detachment XO.
on board FS DIXMUDE
Darwin Navigation Exercise Paul Melling and Lt Oliver Leisk
Once back at sea, 847 wasted no with POACMN Kieron Lovett as
time in getting back into flying the aircrewman. The formation
operations. The first evolution NAVEX was a great opportunity
was a NAVEX over the outback for the Royal Navy crews to
Testing the
of Australia’s Northern Territory work together with the sole
Wildcat’s
in formation with the Alouette 3 French aviation asset on board.
EO sensor
helicopter from FS DIXMUDE. 847
to ID
NAS aircrew have been briefing Winch Training/Vertrep
some local
“
with and operating alongside The new aircrew on board hit
wildlife!
the Alouette crews for the past the ground running with the
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 Load team
with the French Alouette. It also allowed waits as
us to practice some recce pilot skills the Wildcat
positions
on the local crocodile population. over the
– Lt Paul Melling, Detachment
”
ammunition
Training Officer load.
few months however, this is the main priority being to get them
first time they have operated all qualified to operate from
together. The Commando Wildcat the FS DIXMUDE as well as a number of VERTREP, winching, was not a technique that they
led the formation flown by Lt provide SAR cover. To this end, boat transfers, SAR and Hi Lines use – they were impressed.
training sorties were conducted As soon as the 847 NAS
with the DIXMUDE and her escort aircrew were qualified, their
frigate, FS SURCOUF. Hi Lines is a services were required in an
Commando
specific skill that prepares crews ammunition VERTREP from the
Wildcat
to rescue stranded sailors from FS DIXMUDE to the FS SURCOUF
lifting with
small vessels, which they could not on Friday 25 May. The sortie was
the Alouette
safely winch to – such as yachts planned to take three hours to
3 from FS
or oil rigs with unusable helipads. carry 16 loads of 500kg loads of
DIXMUDE
The French Alouette crew found ammunition between the two
this technique interesting as it ships. The task was completed

PEOPLE
RAF 100 AT
in less than two hours with all had two members swimming at
loads transported as requested. one time. They would complete
The French command were very two 50m lengths of the well
RAF STAFFORD
appreciative of the help from deck and then tap in the next
847 NAS as well as the efficiency two from their team. However,
with which it was carried out. This the next two-person team
allowed them to minimize any could not start swimming until
headway that would have been both from the previous team
lost by following a flying course. had finished their swim. This
Load team
positioning
to lift a
second
load after
dropping
off another.
Swimming Competition made the competition as much
T
Wednesday 23 May marked of a team exercise as well as
the French ‘Navy Day’. This is a competitive one. 847 NAS o mark RAF 100 RAF Stafford itself was founded
similar to the British military’s finished a commendable third celebrations, Tactical in September 1939; just as war
Armed Forces Day. Across out of five departments – coming Supply Wing (TSW) was declared, when the treasury
the French fleet, all crews only 4-5 meters behind the based at MOD Stafford authorised the purchase of
participate in some form of team that took second place. Beacon Barracks, arranged for 362 acres of land just outside
sporting competition. This year Everyone in the detachment got the tail of the Hawker Siddeley the town of Stafford. No 16
FS DIXMUDE held a swimming involved, with many volunteering Harrier GR3 gate guard to be Maintenance Support Unit was
competition in their well deck. to do multiple swims after the repainted with an RAF 100 and formed on 1 December 1939
847 NAS bolstered the ranks of aviation department struggled TSW crest themed livery. amidst strong pressure to bring
the aviation department. Teams to fill the whole team sheet. It is important to remember RAF Stafford to operational
that the Harrier stood proudly status quickly. It was then not
as gate guard for RAF Stafford until 1952 that RAF Stafford
from 1993 until 31 March 2006 was granted its Unit Badge.
when RAF Stafford became TSW which was formed at
MOD Stafford. Tail number XZ RAF Stafford in 1970, became
987 itself came into service on operational in 1971 and remains
9 September 1981 with 3 sqn at the only RAF unit at MOD
RAF Gutersloh, Germany. It was Stafford. The Harrier’s bright
then sent to Belize on 27 July red tail bearing TSWs’ crest is a
1990. In 1992 XZ 987 suffered a fitting tribute as part of RAF 100
Ship’s company receives a brief on the rules for the wheels up landing in Belize and celebrations and to remember
swimming competition. The aviation department, subsequently made its way back the Station’s RAF heritage.
including 847, can be seen just to the left of Spot 5. to the UK for repairs. Deemed
irreparable it was sent to RAF Plt Off Rosalind Charles
Stafford to become a gate guard. – TSW Holding Officer
The race begins!

OPERATIONS
661 Sqn – Support to Op CABRIT

‘The story so far’ squadron for its deployment.
This saw a comprehensive
arrival in Estonia and excitement
surrounding the capability itself.
I
programme of flying and ground With preparations complete,
t has been said that one of towards the end of 2017. As a training serials which culminated the squadron started to deploy in
the greatest challenges of squadron that had very recently in Exercise MAPLE STRIKE. early April. An advance party of
leadership is when you are been held at high readiness and Deploying to Kirkudbright training enablers were shortly followed by
required to take people on a made preparations for, but not area and subsequently West the main elements of manpower
journey to a destination that is not deployed on, Op RUMEN (support Freugh, the squadron was able to by air and equipment by sea to
entirely known, via a route that to disaster relief in the Caribbean), complete air to ground gunnery, establish the foothold at Amari
has not been travelled before. The the squadron was well placed to tactical flying in simulated high Air Base. A small road party of
deployment of 661 Sqn in support be able to plan and deliver the Op threat environments and mission REME engineers and essential
of Op CABRIT has been one such CABRIT deployment. The priority specific training. Meanwhile maintenance equipment set off
challenge. This was to be the first was to understand the nature the engineering and logistical a day ahead of the air party to
operational deployment of the of the task and the environment preparations were relentless provide support en route. On 11
Army’s Wildcat Reconnaissance that we would be operating in. A in the face of tight timelines April the air party consisting of 4
Helicopters (RH) and the first UK small recce party from ARF HQ but, with the support of the Wildcat RH and crews departed
aviation deployed in the region and 1AAC were dispatched to Regiment as the main effort, RNAS Yeovilton bound for the
drawing direct comparisons Estonia in January to brave the the requirements were met Baltics. Despite a blanket of low
with the reconnaissance ethos -20 degree wind chill and bring both in the UK and in Theatre. cloud across southern England
of exploration associated with back the information required A key aspect to 661 Squadron’s the aircraft made it across the
the platform itself. Op CABRIT to set the wheels in motion for preparations was addressing Channel but then had to divert
is the NATO Enhanced Forward the deployment. This was made the conceptual component of due to weather into Gilze-Rijen,
Presence (eFP) mission in all the more easy by the eFP HQ deploying to Estonia in support a Dutch military air base. The
Estonia which was established in country and the extremely of the eFP mission. There is no relief at getting out of the UK
following the NATO Summit accommodating Estonian Air historical precedent or doctrinal in a window of opportunity was
in Warsaw in July 2016. This Force whose representative, Capt parallel that is a neat fit but what tempered by the fact we found
has seen the deployment of a Armin Mau, had completed flying was clear is that this seemingly ourselves alongside Dutch
multinational eFP Battlegroup training at Middle Wallop and small scale contribution had helicopter crews sitting out the
(BG) to provide a proportionate, served in 9 Regt Army Air Corps strategic ripples’ well beyond bad weather. However, we were
defensive and combat capable prior to returning to Estonia. its physical boundaries. With hugely supported by the Dutch
force to deter any potential Options identified, the process of this in mind the squadron made military who serviced all of our
hostile activity in the region. It delivering the preferred solution every effort to immerse itself needs, only too happy to help
was to support this commitment was initiated: this was to see the in the more cerebral aspects a fellow NATO military in need.
that in November 2017 it was squadron based out of Amari Air of preparation which included This would be a common theme
agreed that Wildcat RH would Base with a Forward Operating numerous briefs on Estonian of all the NATO bases that we
be deployed to Estonia in 2018. Base (FOB) in Tapa alongside the history, operating in the Baltics routed through. The following
Preparations began in earnest eFP Battlegroup. Back in the UK and exposure to internet and day saw the aircraft lift for their
for the deployment as we hurtled the focus was on preparing the print media on current issues in onward journey to Holzdorf in
the region. A Permanent Joint Germany whilst the engineers,
Headquarters (PJHQ) led all having stopped in Holland, had
ranks briefing day served to to push on to the next stop by
provide the most up to date road to marry up with the aircraft.
thinking and was made all the That night all elements had
more realistic by the ‘beast from made it to the ex-Red Army base
the east’ snow storm that had approximately an hour from Berlin.
descended on central Somerset. Arriving a day later than planned,
One aspect that served to focus there was significant pressure
the mind on the deployment to get out of the base before it
was the increasing importance closed behind us for 3 days. It was
being placed on strategic to be the longest day which saw
communications and in particular us fly through Poland, Lithuania
the messaging surrounding the and into Latvia for our next stop
deployment of Wildcat RH to at Lielvarde air base. With one
support Op CABRIT. From an aircraft suffering a technical
article in Soldier Magazine to problem we had to remain for 48
interviews and articles pushed hours to await a spare to be driven
661 Sqn Wildcat Helicopters lined up at out through social media, the down from Estonia. This gave us
Amari Airbase, Estonia - ready for another coverage for the deployment was the time to meet with the 1st US
gaining significant momentum Air Cavalry based at Lielvarde
day of tasking in support of Op CABRIT both in anticipation of the aircraft with 5 UH-60 Blackhawks and to

south of the country to simulate Exercise SIIL proved to be a
projecting towards the front line, truly unique experience for
the squadron provided the full all of the squadron elements
spectrum of Strike, Coordination and an immense test and
and reconnaissance (SCaR) and vindication of the RH capability.
command missions in support Returning to Amari Air Base,
of the troops on the ground in the squadron has had little
a complex and contested air time to reconstitute in the face
environment. Working alongside of a busy tasking programme.
the Estonian Air Force and US Supporting training activity
Army Aviation, we conducted joint with Estonian and NATO troops
missions into an intensely kinetic and air forces, in addition to
and fast moving battle space – integration with our own British
the learning curve was steep but Military units in the form of the
the rewards were tangible. In eFP BG has generated a complex
addition, the high profile of the schedule of varied tasking.
aircraft being in theatre meant Further significant exercise
that the squadron had the honour opportunities are programmed
of flying the Estonian President, for later in the deployment and
Wildcats in formation flying a mission in Prime Minister and Head of these continue to be developed
Estonia as part of the NATO Battlegroup on Defence all of whom praised and and shaped to maximise the
publicised personally, through potential for appropriate Wildcat
Ex SIIL (Estonian for ‘Hedgehog’), a large social media, the outstanding RH support. The opportunities
multinational exercise with over 15000 troops. support being provided. The are immense and 661 Sqn will
exercise culminated with the continue to explore routes
conduct joint planning for later in visits and capability briefings Head of Defence airborne using not travelled before towards a
the deployment. With this brief there was a very pressing need a Wildcat RH to direct the final destination that, whilst still not
interlude complete the aircraft to engage with the Estonians and battle to take Valga, a town entirely known, is becoming
completed their 1400NM journey, our other NATO counterparts with a population of c.14,000. clearer as time goes on.
flying the short hop into Estonia on the first major serial of the
to join the rest of the squadron. deployment – Exercise SIIL.
The squadron was quick to Literally translated as
establish itself with all elements HEDGEHOG, SIIL is a major
setting up their technical, working NATO exercise simulating a
and domestic areas and routines state incursion into Estonia
swiftly. The aircrew conducted which leads to the triggering of
their Theatre Familiarisation the Estonian national defence
package whilst the ground crew plan as the first step on the road
generated the Forward Refuel towards full NATO Article 5
Point (FRP) capability at Tapa intervention. In Estonian terms,
barracks alongside the eFP BG. the hedgehog analogy is quite
Ahead of schedule by 5 days, intentional – representing a small
the squadron was declared fully spiny mammal that is vulnerable
operational and able to deliver but which, if attacked, is able to
its first tasks in support of leave its predator with a painful
Exercise FURIOUS HAMMER; a taste in its mouth. This exercise
1st Estonian Brigade and NATO saw over 18,000 troops consisting
eFP BG live fire exercise in Latvia. of Estonian military and a dozen
Meanwhile, the interest in the NATO countries participating
arrival of British helicopters from in a total mobilisation scenario
both media and Senior Officials leading to Brigade on Brigade
was significant. In the first week war fighting played out across a
the squadron had a personal visit third of the country. Taking place
from Her Majesty’s Ambassador amongst the Estonian population,
to Estonia accompanied by the amount of military hardware
Comd Op CABRIT and we hosted on display was truly impressive.
journalists from the leading media Towns became battlegrounds
outlets of Estonia. It was clear and highways were given over
from the outset that the focus to obstacles whilst tanks cleared
on the squadron deployment major urban centres in a total war
was going to be far more than scenario. It was against this back
on the training and integration drop that 661 Sqn had its first
conducted with our NATO real opportunity to deliver RH 661 Sqn supporting Estonian forces conducting
counterparts. Despite the frenetic capability in a near-operational
pace of tasking dispersed with context. Deploying to Tartu in the
FIBUA (fighting in built up areas training).

JHC Safety Team
SAFETY
MEET THE TEAM

JHC AH SAFETY Hang gliding and Paragliding – Lessons Learned? governing body for Hang Gliding
Col James Anderson and Paragliding in the UK and their
T
E: James.Anderson754@ he article below is a feet are routinely achieved by website can be accessed through
mod.gov.uk ‘throwback’ article from experienced pilots, who circle in the following link: http://www.bhpa.
T: 01264 381488 LZDZ in 2014. Critically thermal lift up to cloudbase and co.uk/clubs/clubs.php?region=uk
acclaimed by the RAF can travel hundreds of kilometres . This will provide a linked list of
JHC SO1 AIR SAFETY Safety Centre and representatives across country. The UK height gain BHPA recreational clubs covering
Wg Cdr Tony Lett RAF of the BHPA, it was widely record for a hang glider is 12000ft the whole of the UK. It also provides
E: Tony.Lett108@mod.gov.uk publicised. It featured in Issue 15 above takeoff (ATO) in wave a map showing their geographical
T: 01264 381220 of Airclues and elements have meteorological conditions, and the locations. The clubs relevant to
been incorporated to the JHC flash duration record stands at just over 8 the intended flight route can then
JHC SO1 GROUND SAFETY magazine as it contains key safety hours! However, these achievements be identified and their websites
Mr David Atkins critical messages. JHC is proud that are exceptional and flights of accessed. For example, if intending
E: David.Atkins107@mod.gov.uk it was written by one of its own; Maj around 2-3hrs with height gains to fly near the South Downs the
T: 01264 381562 Jonathan Gilbert REME, a safety of up to 5000ft ATO, if cloudbase Southern Hang Gliding Club website
case officer and key member of the permits, are more the norm for most should be visited and their Site
JHC SO2 FLIGHT SAFETY JHC Air Safety Team. It serves as experienced cross country pilots. Guide accessed. On doing so, a
Lt Cdr Owen Camplisson a timely reminder that increasingly Most Hang Glider and Paraglider compass rose will appear indicating
E: Owen.Camplisson339@ we are not alone in uncontrolled flying is initiated through foot the range of launch wind directions
mod.gov.uk airspace and a little knowledge launching from steep sided applicable to each club site. The
T: 01264 381591 may be our only safeguard. hills or ridges that face into the well-known site ‘Devils Dyke’ is
‘The peak in sport and leisure prevailing wind. Although winch suitable for launching when the
JHC SO2 SAFETY POLICY aviation activity across the UK and microlight tug launches from wind direction is anywhere between
Gapped during the summer months is airfields are also undertaken, WNW and N. Accessing this site link
E: such that it should become a most pilots prefer the freedom, will reveal considerably more detail,
T: major consideration during the independence and low cost but most significantly it specifies the
planning process of any flight associated with foot launching from best launch wind direction (NW) – a
JHC SO2 RISK MANAGEMENT through uncontrolled airspace; the a hill or terrain feature. Furthermore, clear indication as to when the site
Sqn Ldr Adam Foley RAF key concern being maintenance the thermal activity that is will be at its busiest! Additionally,
E: Adam.foley681@mod.gov.uk of adequate separation. sought by pilots is more readily accessing the site guide provides
T: 01264 381554 Since Hang Gliders and triggered by undulating terrain. a useful means of checking for all
Paragliders do not carry radio or Most foot launch flying sites are sites that may be on, or close to,
JHC SO2 SAFETY POLICY transponders, good lookout in the clearly marked on military aviation the route planned. Some of these
& REGULATION vicinity of known launch sites tends 1:50,000 maps and are also listed sites, particularly the smaller ones,
Gapped to be the primary means of glider in the Low Flying Handbook. They might not be marked on the maps
E: avoidance. However, this alone is can therefore be readily identified yet they may become quite busy
T: insufficient; an understanding of for flight planning purposes. when conditions are favourable.
gliding techniques and practices, However, whether or not the sites
JHC SO2 UNMANNED together with an appreciation of will be in use on the day depends Wind Strength
AIR SYSTEMS the weather conditions in which the predominantly on the prevailing Paragliders favour lighter surface
Maj Tania Reay Royal Artillery activity is usually conducted are weather conditions and seasonal site winds up to about 10kts, but Hang
E: Tania.Reay222@mod.gov.uk essential to minimise the chances restrictions, as described below: Gliders can launch quite comfortably
T: 01264 381526 of an air proximity incident. in surface winds up to around 25kts.
Firstly, it is important to dispel Wind Direction Thus, in surface winds of 25kts or
JHC SO3 ASSURANCE the commonly held misconception Attempting to foot launch a glider of below, activity on the into wind sites
WO1 Chris Lay AAC that foot launched gliding is purely any type in crosswind or downwind should be expected. Paragliders
E: Christopher.Lay115@ a glorified sledge ride, involving conditions is very hazardous and greatly outnumber Hang Gliders
mod.gov.uk nothing more than leaping off the therefore as a rule launches will and therefore sites will be at their
T: 01264 381473 top of a hill and gliding down to only take place directly into wind. busiest in lighter wind conditions.
the bottom! The aim of the activity In most cases the primary wind Most of the gliders will fly in the
JHC SO3 ANALYSIS is in fact to gain as much height as direction applicable to a marked ridge-lift-band on the windward side
Gapped possible above the takeoff point foot launch site is obvious from the of the hill and therefore are unlikely
E: using ridge lift and thermals, and topographical features shown on the to rise much higher than 1000ft
T: then head off across country chart. (eg. a northerly facing ridge ATO. However, there will always be a
seeking new thermals will be used when the surface wind cadre of more experienced pilots in
and staying is northerly etc). This will provide their midst who will rise considerably
Hey! Remember airborne as a general indication as to whether higher if conditions permit and then
that it’s a northwesterly long as the site will be in use at the time head off cross country. More often
wind today guys so that possible. but further research is necessary than not their cross country routes
local glider site might Height to establish the full range of wind will be downwind of the launch site.
be active. Its good gains directions suitable for launching. Triangular flights to prearranged
soaring conditions of several The British Hang Gliding and waypoints are perfectly feasible,
today…eyes out! thousand Paragliding Association (BHPA) is the particularly in competition flying.

Cloudbase/Cloudcover the risk of air Proximity incidents workload, working with a JTAC
Hang Gliders and Paragliders with foot launched gliders, it is conducting a simulated ground MEET THE TEAM
are essentially ‘VFR only’ aircraft, recommended that the following attack and under an ATS from JHC SO3 DAEMS
mainly due their inability to carry action is undertaken prior to Boscombe Down. It was stated WO1 Ian Fowler
Attitude Indicator/Artificial Horizon any flight through uncontrolled during a pre-flight telebriefing with E: Ian.Fowler477@mod.gov.uk
instrumentation. Thus, they do airspace in day VFR conditions: SPTA Ops that possible gliding sites T: 01264 781752
not as a rule fly in cloud. However, Visit the BHPA website http:// and microlight sites were nearby
they may well inadvertently enter www.bhpa.co.uk/clubs/clubs. but not within the confines of the JHC SO3 FIRE SAFETY
cloud whilst working thermal lift. php?region=uk and check which danger area. During positioning for WO David Price
Similarly, on broken cloud cover clubs operate in the areas to be over the attack run the Hawk flew through E: David.Price107@mod.gov.uk
days they may well rise higher than flown. Access the relevant Club Site a package of paragliders with an T: 01264 381458
some clouds whilst still maintaining Guides and check which sites may estimated separation of around 100’
VFR flight. Cloudbase therefore be active in the prevailing surface vertically and horizontally; too close JHC SO2 SAFETY CASE 1
only acts as a height limitation wind conditions. Where unable to in anyone’s book! The Hawk pilot CH47, PU2, N3 &
when the cloud cover is significant. avoid the sites, plan to fly upwind of aborted his attack run and called AVIATION DH FACING
Additionally, low cloud will not the windward side of the hill/ridge Boscombe and SPTA Ops who had Maj John Osborne Para
necessarily prevent gliding activity maintaining as much horizontal and no visibility of the Paragliders. E: John.Osborne900@
unless it either obscures or is only vertical separation as possible. This case generated a lot of mod.gov.uk
marginally above the launch point. Although this may seem like discussion within the board which T: 01264 381525
an unwelcome, additional flight ranged from command and control,
Precipitation/Visibility planning burden much of the gliding close to danger areas, map JHC SO2 SAFETY CASE 2
Precipitation has an adverse effect research can be done in slow marking, activation of glider sites, ME, WC
on the aerodynamic characteristics time, well in advance of the club liaison with SPTA Ops and Maj Russ Bothwick Royal Artillery
of foot launched gliders. Rain will intended flights; particularly where NOTAM issue to name but a few. A E: Russ.Bothwick790@
retard the airflow over a Hang Glider routes or areas to be over flown NOTAM may have made all units, mod.gov.uk
wing; resulting in a much higher stall are routine or predictable. including the JTAC, aware of the T: 01264 381464
speed and thus greatly reduced Lastly, keep a good lookout site activity but under current regs
stall margin. Launches will therefore throughout your flight from the there is no requirement to do so. JHC SO2 SAFETY CASE 3
not take place in precipitation surface all the way up to cloud base. Would it have been prudent for AH, ISL/DEF & GZ
conditions. Gliders can frequently Gliders are constantly seeking lift the Club to contact SPTA Ops and Maj Jonathan Gilbert REME
get caught in precipitation in flight, (rising air) in order to stay airborne. inform them of planned activity – E: Jonathan.Gilbert864@
particularly in light shower or To the casual observer they may possibly. Did the pilot know that mod.gov.uk
intermittent rain conditions. As a appear to fly together in ‘gaggles’, the site was going to be active with T: 01264 381830
rule precipitation will only prevent whereas in fact they are merely using that wind direction – who knows?
gliding activity when it is frequent, the same thermal. The company of JHC SO2 SAFETY CASE 4
constant or heavy. In the case of other gliders is not their goal – rather New SERA Rules BELL 212, WK & UAS
visibility, the limitations specified in it is staying airborne by gaining This report also provides us Maj Ant Atkinson-Willes AGC ETS
the Air Navigation Order in terms as much altitude as possible from with a Segway to discuss other E: Anthony.Atkinson-
of maintaining VFR, are equally whatever lift is available. Where Class G users operating out of Willes863@mod.gov.uk
applicable to foot launch gliders, as one glider is observed circling in minor aerodromes. In congested T: 01264 381531
they are to all other forms of aviation. thermal lift there are likely to be unclassified airspace, military low
several others working the same level routing is often troublesome JHC DUTY OFFICER
Seasonal Activity/Site Limitations lift, at varying altitudes above and around some of the well-known Office Hours
Comparatively little Hang Gliding below. Remember there may well bottlenecks near ATZs or on the T: 01264 381490
or Paragliding takes place in the UK be foot launch gliders flying cross boundaries of controlled airspace. Out of Hours
during the winter months largely due country by “hopping” from one This can lead to the decision to T: 07717 451 970
to short daylight hours, adverse and thermal to the next, particularly ‘sail close to the wind’ near minor
unpredictable weather conditions downwind of active sites.’ aerodromes or even directly overfly JHC AIR SAFETY TEAM
and greatly reduced thermal activity. and employ the see and avoid ASSISTANTS
Any flying that does take place So What? philosophy as happened in another Maj Mishap AAC
is likely to be confined to ridge Whilst some of us may argue that UK Airprox Board assessed incident Chief Cause RN
soaring a few hundred feet above as professional aviators ‘we knew (Herc formation vs MotorGlider Sgt Slip RAF
the windward side of a hill or top most of that!’ we are still prone - Airprox report No 2018005).
to bottom training flights (cross to the pressures and errors which Aviators be warned; if you do this
country flying is unlikely). Many sites may culminate in missing that you will potentially have
are closed during these periods key piece of information which failed to ‘conform Think twice before
© Excess / Shutterstock
due to seasonal activities such as could lead to a potential airprox with or avoid the planning to fly close to
pheasant/grouse shooting, lambing with another airspace user. pattern of traffic that minor aerodrome.
and crop sowing. Site operating At a recent UK Airprox Board formed by other Have you checked
periods and limitations (such as no fly Meeting, Airprox Report No 201812 aircraft in operation’ the LFHB? It could
areas) will be clearly specified in the studied a near miss between a - SERA.3225 Operation be busier than
relevant Club Site Guides, accessible Military Hawk T1 and a group of on and in the Vicinity of you think!
through the BHPA website (see paragliders at a site near Westbury an Aerodrome. There will
‘Wind Direction’ paragraph above). just outside Salisbury Plain Danger be more to follow on this
In summary, in order to minimise Area. The pilot was under a high hot topic in the next

OPERATIONS
RAF 100 BREEZES IN DURING

skills Seafarers had taught us and
were starting to feel like properly
able crewmen. We docked at
Ex POSEIDON STORM
Sivota that night, ready for a short
sail the next day. That night Flt Lt
Carney, prepared for the group
Written by Fg Off Stephen Swart a Fish Stir-Fry. This was, possibly,
Tactical Supply Wing AT - Fri 23rd Mar – Sun 1st Apr 2018 the most anticipated moment of
O
the trip and one worth waiting
n a cold, wet and breakfast and the news that the calm seas the water was warm for. All would agree this was the
windy Staffordshire boats were not here, but a 4 hour and then the feeling of adventure most well planned meal of the
morning 7 personnel drive away in Lefkada. Meeting us truly arrived. We left the bay, back trip and it paid off. Delicious!
from Tactical Supply there were the 2 skippers provided into the surf to sail to Ithkada Friday morning came with a
Wing based at MOD Stafford by Seafarers; Georgios and Becky. where we docked for the night. gentle swell and the now familiar
gathered at 0300 in the MT yard The boats (Stepping Stone and Already miles behind schedule sound of waves lapping against the
ready to depart on an experience Captain John), were assigned their due to the poor weather we had sides of our respective boats. We
of a lifetime. Upon arriving at skippers and crew, and an induction a decision to make. That night made our final journey to Lefkada
Stanstead we met our 8th member followed where we were quite we decided that our route had where we arrived and had our
of the trip, SAC Duke from RAF literally ‘shown the ropes’. That to change; we would sail around final brief from the staff. We were
Odiham. The Ryanair flight passed evening the group bought food the Islands close to us rather than all awarded the Competent Crew
without incident, however an for the journey, which was topped to Corinth, as this was too far qualification, meaning that in the
honourable mention must be given up along the route most nights, away for the time we had left. future we can take part in sailing
to Flt Lt Carney who led TSW then met up for dinner together. With this new plan in mind, the expeditions and work towards our
onto the plane first by taking pole The initial plan was to sail the third day of sailing was sufficiently Day Skipper qualification. We all
position in the boarding queue. boats back to Corinth, so on day more relaxed than the others had went out on the town that night, led
Touching down in Athens was 1 of sailing, we set off onto the been. The sea was calm, and we by our local guide Georgios, which
welcomed by the taller contingent waves; it was a true baptism of could really start to focus more on turned out to be a rather late one.
of the group; Fg Off Swart’s and fire. The sea was very rough, so out sailing skills. We learnt more We woke on Saturday morning
SAC Carter’s legs returning to rough the skippers took control of knots, turns and started on other with sore heads and tired eyes.
more relaxed, uncrushed state. the boats and got the sails away. drills like man-overboard. We Saying our goodbyes to Becky,
We were welcomed in at Arrivals Lunch was attempted to be served pulled up into a small bay for lunch, Georgios, Capt. John and
by a minibus and taxi laid on by on Stepping Stone, however this which was duly followed by a swim Stepping Stone, we headed onto
Seafarers to take us to Corinth, our was quickly abandoned due to sea in the calm waters. The marine life our transport that would take us
first destination, where the boats sickness below decks. Thankfully in this bay was a sight to behold. to Athens – the final part of the
should have been to meet us. the only calls were ‘man down’ We sailed on to Kafelonia where trip. We arrived in Athens early in
After an hour on a beautiful and not ‘man overboard’! We put we stayed the night. Spaghetti the afternoon and checked into
brand new EU-funded motorway the motor on instead, and in the Bolognaise was the order of the hotel. Like the first night, it
passing what used to be Greek interests of safety made for the the night with Chef SAC Carter was most comfortable and we
light industry along the roadside, port for the night at Meganisi Vathi. providing us with a filling meal. settled in before the group split –
we arrived at the hotel for the first That night a humongous Spaghetti Another morning, another some for a nap, others to explore
night. The Kalamaki Beach Hotel Carbonara went some way in intensive Phys session run by Cpl the city. We all reconvened for
was an oasis of calm along the raising our slightly dampened McGuire. Who in his (self-assigned) dinner in the hotel restaurant
Ionian, after settling in to our rooms spirits. All slept very well that role as Ex-PTI encouraged all to before heading out into Athens
and acquainting ourselves with night, safe in the knowledge take part on a daily basis, albeit to a couple of bars to enjoy the
the panoramic views and sea-side we had made it through the 40 with a mixed response from the Greek ambiance and reminisce
swimming pool we all had dinner knot winds and choppy waters. crew! From our port we sailed to about the good times of the trip,
together and FS McGuire delivered Day two started in much the Fiskado on the Wednesday, and it memories we had made and at
a brief detailing the weeks Key same vein as the first; high winds was upon this day that a mythical midnight, the 100 year anniversary
Learning Points, and what we were and treacherous conditions for partnership was born. The 3X of the RAF. Suffice to say, it was a
to expect. A small contingent of the sailing. However by this point the McGuires; FS, Cpl and SAC formed memorable night for all involved.
group later ventured into Corinth crews had gotten used to the a bond so strong that it developed Sunday morning came around
were they set about establishing boat racing along at a near 90 a ‘secret’ sign and name. The too quickly, and with it the
international relations with the degree angle, and sea sickness world is not yet ready for ‘Tri-Gui’. knowledge that the trip had come
locals. They returned quietly to tablet use was in full force! It is fair In honour of the new group, SAC to an end. We packed up our bags,
the hotel later that evening. to say that the conditions were McGuire prepared a sweet and headed to the airport and prepared
Saturday morning started not like any of the team had been sour chicken which cemented to feel the squeeze again of the 4
with a group PT session, a hearty expecting. After lunch the seas the importance of Tri-Gui in hour flight back to the UK. A long
calmed and we found a bay in the minds of all present. journey entailed back to Stafford,
which to drop anchor for a while Waking up on the Thursday for which we must thank TSW MT
and swim around the boat. In the morning we all became very for picking us up at Stanstead
aware of how quickly the trip where we said goodbye to SAC
was going. We carried on sailing Duke, whisking us back up North
with our final port coming ever arriving around 2200 after what
closer. By this time we had all had been a truly amazing, testing
become comfortable with the and fulfilling experience.

PEOPLE
Queen’s
STATE, MSMS AND COMMENDATIONS
Award Rank Name Force
Companion of the British Empire (CBE)
Birthday Honours
CBE Brig Keating JHC HQ
Member of the British Empire (MBE)
List Results 2018

MBE MAC Bradley R & S Wing
Meritorious Service Medals (MSM)
MSM WO2 Wesson AACen
MSM WO1 Meekey AAvn Stds JHC COMD JHC COMMENDATIONS
MSM MACr Holmes RAF Odiham Rank Name Force
1st Sea Lord’s Greenwich Hospital Prize Lt Longia CHF
1SL GHP Lt Cdr Hill CHF Lt Cdr Holloway CHF
1SL GHP Lt Cdr Westley CHF CPO Elder CHF
Chief of the General Staff Commendation (CGS) Sgt Higgins AHF
CGS Maj Howard AACen Sgt White AHF
CGS Maj McCollum AAvn Stds JHC Sgt Bailey ARF
Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) SAC(T) Hayes RAF Benson
CAS Sgt Mowforth RAF Benson CT Larkin RAF Benson
Deputy Commanders’ Commendation (DCOMs’) FS Lundy RAF Benson
DCOM’s Sgt Kehoe RAF Odiham SAC(T) Evans RAF Benson
Air Officer Commanding 2 Group Commendation (AOC 2 Gp) Cpl Turner RAF Odiham
AOC 2 Gp WO T Stead RAF Benson Sgt Evans TSW
AOC 2 Gp FS E H V Wood RAF Odiham Cpl Procter TSW
AOC 2 Gp Sgt S Jones RAF Benson Cpl Evans TSW
AOC 2 Gp Sgt M A Robertshaw RAF Benson Sgt Sabella TSW
AOC 2 Gp Cpl S A Bryan FTRS RAF Odiham COMD JHC TEAM COMMENDATIONS
AOC 2 Gp SAC M Vassallo Grant RAF Benson 1710 NAS, RAF Benson 1710 NAS
Regional Non Destructive
AOC 2 Gp Team Project HESTIA RAF Odiham Testing Team (RNDTT)
Commendation Pay-as-You-Dine
Mobilisation Team AH Display Team AHF
© Shaun Jeffers / shutterstock

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Contents Issue 3, 2018

HONOURS & AWARDS

EDITORIAL SUBMISSION DATE…

MONDAY 3 SEPTEMBER 2018

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

PLEASE TURN TO PAGE 08 FOR THE COVER STORY

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

Chinook Support to Poppy Appeal

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 5

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

The simple but meaningful act

Pilot Capt Steven Bishop AAC receiving his award for

days notice to deploy anywhere Those presented awards were:

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

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

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 9

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

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

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 11

ON 1ST APRIL, ONE

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

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 13

EVERYONE WITH AN ACCOUNT HAS THE SAME HOME SCREEN:

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

BE AS SPECIFIC AS POSSIBLE, FOR EXAMPLE I ENTERED A SIMPLE SEARCH

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 15

The Commando Merlin of troops, providing underslung

MK4 Has Arrived

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

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 17

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

of personnel and aircraft. CHF

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

They certainly look impressive in photos

of RAF Odiham personnel in he gave the project his backing

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

Joint Helicopter Support

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

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 21

To book accommodation please contact Judith Hall on 01536 711884

847 NAS - Jeanne D’Arc Deployment - May 18

The NAVEX was a fantastic opportunity

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

Swimming Competition made the competition as much

The race begins!

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 25

661 Sqn – Support to Op CABRIT

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

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 27

MEET THE TEAM

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

VISIT: WWW.LZDZONLINE.CO.UK LZDZ / ISSUE 3, 2018 29

RAF 100 BREEZES IN DURING

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

Award Rank Name Force

Companion of the British Empire (CBE)

Member of the British Empire (MBE)

List Results 2018

Meritorious Service Medals (MSM)

MSM WO2 Wesson AACen

MSM WO1 Meekey AAvn Stds JHC COMD JHC COMMENDATIONS

MSM MACr Holmes RAF Odiham Rank Name Force