847 NAS, Lynx Mk9A – This week, the Lynx main effort has been to provide armed escort for other JHF(A) Support Helicopters, transferring personnel completing the RiP at various Patrol Bases around Helmand, along with assisting ground forces as a Close Air Support platform. In addition, there has been a marked increase in intelligence and surveillance tasking, with the flexibility of the aircraft and its optical capabilities proving invaluable.

845/6 NAS, Sea King 4+ – The Sea King Mk4’s continue to ferry RiP personnel and a large amount of freight around the AO, operating close to their payload limits in exceptionally challenging dusty and windy conditions.

Photography:RAF/MOD Crown Copyright 2011