OPERATIONAL SUMMARY – WEEK ENDING 1 JUN 2008

The Tornado GR4 squadron in support of Op TELIC has rotated this week, with 14 Squadron returning to RAF Lossiemouth, replaced by 12 Squadron. As 14 Squadron prepared to return to the UK their tasking has continued, mainly covering Baghdad and Southeast Iraq. In addition, 100s of images have been successfully captured by the Tornado GR4s in their reconnaissance role.

The C130Js main tasking has continued to be the RIP – Relief In Place, replacing 4 Mech Brigade with 7 Arm Brigade. The fleet has transported a total of over 3000 passengers and 500 tonnes of freight. The UK VC10 and TriStar tanker have supported UK and Coalition aircraft in the Air-to-Air refuelling role. And, on the 31 May 08, the Communications Fleet received the BAe 146 aircraft, increasing the number of passengers they can move.

OP HERRICK

Of great value this week have been missions flown by the Harrier Force in support of the Afghan National Army, contributing to an increase in morale and fighting spirit when the Afghan National Security Force know that Air is overhead and on call. Air Power is also giving the Afghan National Police and their mentors the decisive advantage. 1 (Fighter) Squadron has been a part of this, conducting shows of force this week in support of a series of skirmishes around the region. In its reconnaissance role, the Harrier Force has captured around 100 images.

The C130 Detachment completed 4 airdrops over 2 days this week. The C130 continues to conduct routine re-supply and movement of passengers, including delivering mail to personnel deployed in remote locations and casualty evacuation. Earlier in the week, the C130, with a medical team on board, recovered Royal Marine casualties from Camp Bastion to meet a C17 Globemaster III that then transferred them direct to Birmingham. In addition, throughout the week, the UK Combined Service Entertainment show was transported around theatre, boosting morale in various locations.

At Camp Bastion, during the week the Afghan National Army conducted a ramp ceremony for 2 of their personnel killed in action, with members of 904 EAW in attendance.

Early in the week 904 EAW held their first farewell and medal presentation ceremony. This was a short assembly to say farewell to those completing their tours, give them their ISAF medal and an overview on what has been achieved in their four months in theatre, and to say thank you.

Reaper has flown all if its planned missions this week, often tasked to sweep for Enemy Forces. Having a platform with such extensive capability, protecting our forces on the ground and on our airfields, protecting hour after hour after hour is very reassuring for our own people; it should be disconcerting for those who threaten the Government of Afghanistan, UK and Coalition forces.

This week, No 1 Air Control Centre (1 ACC) has provided that essential ability to manage highly complex airspace safely and efficiently.

Images

One - A Tornado GR4 Engine Change on Op TELIC
Two - Hercules C130s in the Middle East
Three - An RAF Harrier in Afghanistan