OPERATION HERRICK

904 EAW Hercules aircraft continue to deliver essential air-dropped stores as well as transporting passengers and evacuating casualties. As ever, ongoing training for Aerial Delivery of stores means this exacting mission-essential capability continues to realise benefits, especially when alternative parachute Drop Zones are requested at short notice, as was the case this week. Some 20 tonnes of air-delivered stores were delivered to their Drop Zones accurately, allowing troops on the ground to continue their operations unabated. 2,000 passengers were also transported with over 250 tonnes of freight being delivered throughout the theatre this week.

For the Harriers of 904 EAW, air operations continued at a very busy pace this week, with additional tasking being undertaken in support of Land Commanders’ ground operations. Dynamic re-tasking in the air was used to deliver further success on the ground, with simultaneous close coordination from other air assets, allowing all Close-Air-Support missions to be completed successfully.

This week the Nimrod MR2 of 902 EAW delivered significant support to ground operations, before undergoing some essential maintenance. Amongst tasks achieved this week, the Nimrod provided concurrently key communication linkages, tracking of objectives on the ground and essential imagery. This allowed the rapid insertion of Coalition Forces on the ground into areas of high enemy force activity much sooner than could have been achieved, realising quick mission success.

In air-to-air refuelling operations, the Tristar tanker aircraft delivered over 200 tonnes of fuel to a wide range of Coalition aircraft. The Tristar’s flexibility and reach continues to provide Coalition air forces with the essential ability to persist on task over Afghanistan.

OPERATION TELIC

Reconnaissance, coupled with Close-Air-Support missions, provided the bulk of activity for the Tornado GR4s of 901 EAW. Given their capability, the GR4s continued to deliver their mission support successfully, despite increasingly dusty conditions within their areas of operation. Night-time activity also increased this week, as the aircraft played a vital role in countering enemy activity on the ground. Despite the ongoing high operational tempo, the Tornado aircraft engineers continue to maintain an excellent level of fleet serviceability, allowing 100% mission success.

Working closely in support of the Tornados, the VC10 aircraft of 901 EAW are performing very well with all planned missions being flown this week and additional tasking requested in support of Coalition aircraft.

Much in-depth planning goes into maintaining sufficient resources in theatre to produce the effectiveness required. As a result, the C-130 aircraft of 901 EAW have maintained an excellent work rate, upholding their commitments to their theatre of operation despite fulfilling a variety of roles.

Considerable effort is continuing at 903 EAW to ensure a smooth Transfer of Authority to US forces as the UK mission comes to an end and the new US mission begins. Commensurate with this commercial agencies are also engaged in the transition process with the airport development, delivering positive change to the people of Iraq and interacting well with coalition and Iraqi agencies.

After replacing 51 Squadron RAF Regiment, 15 Squadron has worked through its transition period rapidly and is delivering good operational continuity. This is always a difficult period for any unit, but that Unit is enhancing airfield security in the true traditions of the RAF Regiment.

Photographs: RAF/MOD

Image 1: 101 Squadron Aircrew.

Image 2: Coalition Ground Crew.

Image 3: Air Traffic Control.

Image 4: RAF Police.

For more images view this weeks Operational Gallery