OPERATION HERRICK

This week has demonstrated again the utility of the Hercules element of 904 EAW as it performed several of its roles. Tactical Air Transport is a key capability to support the effort of the International Security and Assistance Force (ISAF) to restore and maintain security in the region, also to its contribution to improving governance, partnering with and mentoring developing Afghan authorities. One hundred Afghan National Police graduates from training supported by the Coalition were transported by Hercules to various locations across the region. Over 2000 other passengers and 250 tonnes of freight were also transported this week, despite the poor weather conditions. Several aeromedical evacuation sorties were flown, including four to evacuate critically injured casualties. Delivery of essential stores to ground troops from the air is another area in which the crews of the Hercules aircraft excel. This has been tested again this week when over 250 tonnes of a wide range of essential stores were delivered successfully to their ground Drop Zones. The challenges involved with delivering stores accurately from an aircraft in conditions of variable wind to exacting Drop Zones are very demanding and rely on the hours of demanding training to hone the required skills.

Operational Tempo for the Harriers of 904 EAW remained high. The wide spectrum of sorties required to deliver positive outcomes on the ground needed close coordination with several agencies. The requirements for support are driven by the requirements of the situation on the ground, the crews will often receive short-notice changes when already airborne. This can include remaining in the air for much longer than planned, which is where the pilots’ air-to-air refuelling skills come into their own. This week, the crews have been involved with Close Air Support missions, including an accurate delivery of ordnance through cloud. They were also involved with the speedy location of targets of interest on the ground, using some of the hi-tech capability on the aircraft. They then guided ground forces onto these assets whilst simultaneously providing them with air cover. Concurrently, ‘Shows of Force’ continue to be used to good effect, providing essential air cover for extracting ground forces.

A combination of poor weather in their Area of Operation and some aircraft unserviceability meant that the Nimrod MR2 of 902 EAW achieved somewhat fewer sorties than last week. However, their key contribution to integrating the efforts of many Coalition forces continues to provide an essential capability in support of troops on the ground. This capability allows Coalition ground troops the freedom to conduct operations on the ground, strengthening the drive for improved regional stability and security.

The Tristar tanker has also been operating successfully in support of Coalition aircraft, off-loading some 80 tonnes of fuel in air-to-air refuelling operations to a wide range of receiver aircraft.

OPERATION TELIC

The unseasonable weather across the region affected aircraft operations and indeed has hampered somewhat the efforts of the Tornados of 901 EAW recently. Nevertheless, this week they have delivered both Close Air Support and reconnaissance missions where required. The multi-functional Tornado GR4 has the ability to prosecute sorties with a variety of differing profiles. Very versatile, it is frequently re-tasked in the air. Such was the case this week, with missions planned as Shows of Force being re-tasked into Close Air Support, then continuing as a reconnaissance mission before returning to base. As with other Fast Air assets, confirmation of weapon effect is very important. The Tornado GR4 crews are highly skilled in this exercise and, through the good use of this capability on the aircraft, confirm that successful delivery of ordnance has taken place.

The VC10s of 901 EAW had a particularly eventful week, being called upon to operate further afield than of late, and succeeded in dispensing fuel to aircraft of 904 EAW employed on Operation HERRICK, enabling them to extend their mission providing support to ground forces. This is a fine example of the reach of air power, with Royal Air Force assets assigned to operations over Iraq able to operate over Afghanistan with little notice.

Agility and adaptability remained the theme with most crews this week and none more so than those of the Hercules Force on 901 EAW, who received some tasking at very short notice, involving several agencies. Rapid re-tasking saw the C-130 crews of 901 EAW playing host unexpectedly to the UK Foreign Secretary this week, as they successfully ensured his smooth and timely arrival at his destination for some key meetings in the region. Also this week, a technical problem caused a C-130 of 901 EAW to change its planned itinerary, resulting in its passengers being landed far from their intended destination. The situation was resolved following a coordinated effort with other Coalition crews and aircraft, providing another fine example of close co-operation between allies in an operational theatre. Situations like these are reminiscent of scenarios encountered in training, which are often considered unrealistic at the time. However, real life usually provides many more unpredictable and demanding situations to keep personnel on their toes, particularly when on operations overseas!

Transition planning continues apace at 903 EAW as the dates for Transfer of Authority to US forces approach. After a highly successful tour, 51 Squadron Royal Air Force Regiment recently departed theatre for some well-deserved leave following their operational deployment to Al Basrah. Before their departure, some Squadron members were presented with commendations for their efforts whilst on operations. Their contribution to winning the peace in the region cannot be under-estimated and, through some exemplary leadership and dedication, they have had significant influence in the local area. Of particular note is the work they carried out with some high-impact projects for local villages and schools. In particular, they have refurbished classrooms, donated school equipment and wheelchairs, whilst forming crucial key relationships with local leaders. To show their gratitude for the Squadron’s work, 25 local tribal elders held a feast in their honour, the 51 Squadron Ashura Feast; this was hailed as a truly remarkable event. 15 Squadron Royal Air Force Regiment has arrived to continue reinforcement of peace and stability through close engagement with the local population.

Photographer: Cpl Scott Robertson, RAF

Image 1: RAF Movers with a large heavy load

Image 2: Nimrod MR2 is being prepared

Image 3: Tornado GR4 on the runway

Image 4: Commendation from AOC Air Commodore Tony Barmby to Flight Sergeant Michael Kennedy from 51 Sqn RAF Regiment for his strength of character and unparralled devotion to duty during Op Telic.

For more images view this weeks Operational Gallery