RAF Brize Norton News

XXIV Squadron Complete Week of Intense Air Mobility Force Training

In early January 2021, XXIV Squadron personnel enabled the training requirements of the Air Mobility Force through advanced flying and ground training serials on Exercise Brize Spirit.

Pictured, a C-130J Hercules Pilot during one of the many flying serials on Exercise Brize Spirit
Pictured, a C-130J Hercules pilot during one of the many flying serials on Exercise Brize Spirit.

This exercise would usually be conducted at a deployed location, however due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the deployment of the C-130J Hercules Force was adapted to run from RAF Brize Norton. Mounting multiple daily serials whilst embracing proven COVID-19 procedures, using enhanced social distancing measures, remote briefings and minimum personnel, crews were able to complete all essential training requirements.

Wing Commander Andy McIntyre, Officer Commanding XXIV Squadron said:

“The ability of XXIX Squadron to generate and sustain the C-130J front Line requirements within the complex backdrop that COVID-19 provides is vital but continues to test us all. Despite being unable to deploy on this occasion we achieved all modified objectives. I am pleased to say that the hard work and perseverance of the many teams that deliver the exercise has prepared C-130J crews for the continuous demand of operations that they will face on the front line.”

Wing Commander Andy McIntyre
Officer Commanding XXIV Squadron

The C-130J Hercules pictured over the sea during one of the sorties
The C-130J Hercules pictured over the sea during one of the sorties

XXIV Squadron instructors delivered training to crews from 47 Squadron, 47 Air Dispatch Squadron Royal Logistic Corps, and No. 1 Air Mobility Wing (1AMW) in essential military skills such as Low-level resupply, formation flying, Night Vision Goggle flying, in addition to ground training serials such as Engine Running Off/On load training serials.

Flight Sergeant Gav Livingstone, Deputy Chief Air Loadmaster Instructor, XXIV Squadron said:

“Carrying out loading duties whilst the Engines remain running (ERO) is an operational skillset that allows crews in the Air Mobility Force to complete missions efficiently and effectively. The process relies on the close teamwork of multiple agencies including 1AMW and aircrew. By adopting a collaborative approach to training and including these support agencies this ensures this vital operational discipline remains safe. Critically, all levels of experience are able to benefit from the training given, whether that’s personnel who are employing this discipline for the first time, or more experienced personnel who are deploying on operations.”

Flight Sergeant Gav Livingstone
Deputy Chief Air Loadmaster Instructor
XXIV Squadron

Engine Running Off/On load training serials were also conducted during Exercise Brize Spirit
Engine Running Off/On load training serials were also conducted during Exercise Brize Spirit

The ability to transport vital personnel and lifesaving equipment around the globe in support of operations has never been more vital than it is today. In order to help prepare the Air Mobility Force and RAF Brize Norton for this mission, XXIV Squadron regularly deploy crews to simulate operations in a deployed location.

Flight Lieutenant Paul Dunkley, Officer Commanding Hercules Flight, XXIV Squadron said:

“Despite the last-minute change of location and rapid re-planning by XXIV Squadron, Exercise Brize Spirit was entirely successful. With almost 90 hours of C-130J tactical flying training conducted during the week, multiple qualifications were completed in the most esoteric disciplines that the Air Mobility Force provides. This exercise has once again shown its critical status in delivering operationally focused training to C-130J crews and enabling units in support of Defence.”

Flight Lieutenant Paul Dunkley
Officer Commanding Hercules Flight
XXIV Squadron

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