This week, a Royal Air Force Atlas aircraft completed a 9-hour round trip mission from the UK to conduct air drop re-supply in support of a UK Army training Exercise in Estonia.
Launching from the home of the Air Mobility Force, RAF Brize Norton, the aircraft crewed by members of 24, 30, 70 and 47(AD) Squadrons flew more than 1,000 miles to Nurmsi drop zone, Estonia, where they dropped six bundles of stores to resupply UK troops taking part on Exercise Dirt Track.
The aim was to conduct air-land integration with forces deployed on Operation CABRIT, while demonstrating the long-range insertion capabilities of Atlas as well as providing essential training to frontline Atlas crews newly qualified in this discipline. The mission highlighted the reach and payload of Atlas.
"It is a fantastic privilege to be part of this mission and to see first-hand what Atlas and its crews are capable of. I am extremely grateful to our Estonian partners for working with us to make this happen. It is an incredibly exciting time to be part of the team charged to deliver the tactical capabilities of Atlas on operations; I am hugely excited about the opportunities that await as we enhance the scope and scale of such activities."
Flight Lieutenant 'JJ' Jackson
Aircraft Captain, 30 Squadron
"The delivery of long-range resupply by frontline crews is a major milestone for Atlas. The ability of this aircraft to deliver precision resupply at significant range from the UK - and to return home afterwards - offers enhanced and resilient force sustainment capabilities at a critical time for UK Defence. This has been a whole force effort that has been built on the professionalism and determination of those across the Atlas Force. Nevertheless, I am particularly proud that 30 Squadron – the world’s first aerial delivery Squadron - has been able to reopen its account in support of this Exercise."
Wing Commander Patton
Officer Commanding 30 Squadron
"When deployed forwards, integration between the land and air space is vital to equip personnel with supplies and essentials on the ground as quickly as possible. This Exercise provided a unique opportunity for soldiers currently deployed to Estonia, enhancing their ability to train alongside air assets in a challenging winter environment."
Lieutenant Mason
Platoon Commander, C Company 1st Battalion The Royal Welsh
