For safety to be maintained, units need to maintain constant communication, access information as and when required, and coordinate with NATO allies. But how is that achieved?
"Due to the current situation, it is vital 617 Squadron has uninterrupted comms," says Air Specialist (Class 1) Oliver of 90 Signals Unit (SU), as he details the importance of his role.
Building a Battlefield Network
90 SU uses satellites, radio and data networks to create tactical communication pipelines between parties. These are paired with deployable IT infrastructure to create secure networks and servers, enabling the sharing of Secret information between units, regional partners and NATO allies.
Demands are dynamic, and the threats in the Middle East are not limited to drones alone — 90 SU must ensure communication channels are secure from cyber-attacks and digital warfare tactics more broadly. The unit must therefore be agile and adaptable, with kit that is scalable from small mobile outposts to full-scale HQ communications departments. To operate effectively, the unit must know its equipment inside and out.
As AS1 Oliver explains, back in the UK you spend your time "preparing kit and admin so we are ready for any deployment." By maintaining personnel and equipment operational readiness, 90 SU has achieved a seamless integration into RAF Akrotiri.
When Silence is Not an Option
Much like a train network, operational fluidity and effectiveness can only be maintained if there is a seamless flow of information between stakeholders. This need has grown as the number of NATO allies involved continues to increase. As AS1 Ryan puts it: "Our output is essential for the ground team to effectively communicate on the island and back to the UK."
Keeping Secrets Safe
90 SU must not only keep communication pipelines open — they must ensure they are completely secure. Mission planning regularly involves the sharing of Secret information between a wide range of parties, including NATO allies, teams on the ground at RAF Akrotiri, teams on Mount Olympus and units back in the UK.
Providing the capability to share information at the highest classification level, as AS1 Jack outlines, "allows 617 Squadron to communicate with NATO allies and access Secret classification information, ensuring effective mission planning and output for the F-35Bs."
With the threat of drones, AS1 Oliver is clear on the stakes: "It is vital 617 Squadron has uninterrupted comms to fulfil their mission — any lack of comms during an operation could be critical to safety…."
That is a timely reminder of what is at play. 90 SU may not be in the cockpit, but without them the squadrons could not function. They are the connective tissue that binds the entire operation together.
