Introduction

The Royal Air Force Odiham contribution to the Support Helicopter Force comprises the three Chinook squadrons complete with supporting personnel and equipment. All units of the Chinook force are capable of rapid mobilisation for deployment to operational theatres ranging from the arctic to the desert. Once established in theatre, a large coordinated movement of troops and equipment is possible over moderate distances in a short time, possibly across unfriendly territory. These operations must be able to be carried out in most weather conditions, and of course, by day or by night.

Peacetime

In peacetime, as well as a requirement to train for war, there are other roles designated for the support helicopters of the RAF.

Falkland Islands.

A number of our service personnel ranging from cooks to firemen are detached to the islands, leaving their posts here vacant while they are away.

National Standby.

Overlaid on all other tasks is the need to maintain one Chinook on short notice standby 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for national contingencies.

Contingency Operations.

Another requirement is to maintain a capability to be used for contingency operations both inside and outside the NATO area. Whilst these tasks usually employ the skills that we regularly train for, it is possible that we may be involved in operations in environments other than those we are used to.

Operations.

Typically, all our Chinook squadrons and the Lynx squadron have been, or are, involved in operations working alongside various other units in the following areas.

Former Republic of Yugoslavia

The Former Republic of Yugoslavia when they were deployed with 24 Air Mobile Brigade in support of the United Nations Protection Force (UNPROFOR)during 1995

Bosnia and Croatia

Bosnia and Croatia as part of the NATO Implementation Force (IFOR) designed to bring peace to the area. And then, as part of the NATO Stabilisation Force (SFOR) which continues to monitor the situation.

Kosovo

Kosovo in support of the NATO Kosovo Force (KFOR). Chinooks were heavily involved in the initial occupation of Kosovo. They were involved in troop moves, resupply and logistic moves for the early months of the occupation.

Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone. Four Chinooks self-ferried 3,800 miles (6,115km) to Sierra Leone, and began by ferrying members of 1 Para from Lunghi airport to the capital Freetown and evacuating local entitled civilians. Later, they were heavily involved with troop moves 'up-country' and with operations throughout the country.

Afghanistan and Iraq

And latterly, in Afghanistan and Iraq, in support of the coalition against terrorism working with 45 Commando, Royal Marines, the Americans and various other nationalities.