Throughout the month of September, RAF Odiham hosted elements of the US 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment SOAR (Airborne), taking part in an interoperability exercise codenamed Ex DARK LIGHTNING.
RAF Odiham, part of Joint Aviation Command, operates the legendary Chinook airframe like our American colleagues. Ex DARK LIGHTNING presents a unique opportunity to train and operate together, learning and developing the best ways of working. These vital experiences help galvanise and enhance this special relationship, critical for the security and prosperity of both nations.
The Exercise began with an eye-catching formation through the London Heli-Lanes, two SOAR Chinooks accompanied by one from RAF Odiham. Following a fortnight of interoperability serials, the Exercise culminated in the UK’s first overland Air-to-Air refueling mission, with an MC-130J from RAF Mildenhall supporting as the donor aircraft.
Ex DARK LIGHTNING concluded with a visit to RAF Odiham from senior leaders of both the Royal Air Force and United States Army highlighting the importance of the Exercise for future joint endeavours.
“The Chinook Force has been delighted to work alongside our friends from the US Army over the last month. The drawing together of capabilities, and the sharing of ideas, will be critical in enhancing the operational readiness of both nations. We look forward to further interoperability opportunities to strengthen the relationship between the UK and US Chinook Forces.”
Group Captain Matt Roberts
Chinook Force Commander, RAF Odiham
