ISTAR tasking formed the basis of 617 Sqn’s contribution to Coalition operations this week. Further support to Op GHUMBESA offered an opportunity to demonstrate the Tornado GR4’s flexibility, by using the night capability of its LITENING III imaging and targeting pod to detect and report insurgent activity on the ground. Additionally, TorDet were able to provide a timely and effective Show of Force, including the use of flares, to support ground troops that had come under small arms fire from insurgents.

Photography: RAF/MOD Crown Copyright 2011.