More about this squadron

606 Squadron was formed in 1996 as the helicopter support squadron, with the Queen granting it its existing number and title three years later. We have 180 Reservists working in diverse areas such as logistics and flight operations.

It is the only RAF Reserves unit that operates with the Joint Helicopter Command. It has a particularly close relationship with the flying squadrons at RAF Benson: 28 (AC) and 78 (B) Squadron (flying Merlin helicopters), and 33 and 230 Squadron (flying the Puma helicopter). Our Reservists are often employed around the world supporting RAF Benson assets on operations, training for operations or on other exercises.

Roles and specialist skills

Wherever helicopters from the UK Armed Forces are used, it is possible that they are being supported by our Reservists. All of our roles focus on providing first-class back-up to those flying the missions. Many are also trained to operate as helicopter underslung load teams.

Logistics Drivers and Suppliers are, in addition to their main role, trained in providing fuel to helicopters at remote locations.

Flight operations staff are trained in the specifics of helicopter requirements, allowing them to operate under the most extreme weather conditions. Those employed in engineering and RAF Regiment flights are also shown how the needs of rotary aircraft can be different to those of fixed-wing aircraft.

Regardless of your role, you will work alongside your regular counterparts supporting Joint Helicopter Command aviation assets such as the Chinook, Merlin, Puma, Apache, Gazelle, Lynx and Sea King helicopters.

Recent deployments

In the last decade, our Reservists have been deployed with the Joint Helicopter Command and the RAF on operations in Iraq, the Balkans, Kuwait, Afghanistan and the Falkland Islands. Our exercises have taken people overseas to Belize, Germany, Jordan, Kenya, Morocco, Norway and the USA.

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