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View Full Version : RAF Merlins fly first Afghan sortie

Lyneham Lad
30th Nov 2009, 17:38
From Flight International:-

The UK Royal Air Force's AgustaWestland Merlin HC3 transport helicopters have begun supporting coalition operations in Afghanistan. The type flew its first mission in the theatre on 27 November.
Drawn from 78 Sqn at RAF Benson, Oxfordshire, the recently deployed Merlins are assigned to 1419 Flt at Camp Bastion, Helmand province. The first sortie involved moving troops and supplies between forward operating bases in the Helmand Valley, the Ministry of Defence says.

Full article/pics (http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/11/30/335603/pictures-raf-merlins-fly-first-afghan-sortie.html)

Well done to all involved and good luck, come back safe.
Runaway Gun
30th Nov 2009, 19:21
Whilst not especially mentioned, they've already been featured during Afghan related clips on the news. :ok:
Could be the last?
1st Dec 2009, 17:33
Good to see the guys getting stuck in:ok:

Thread creep...........

However, thinking further ahead - How does the RN/CHF intend to crew the ac when they are donated by the RAF under the 20/20 vision for SH?

More importantly, what are the implications for the RAF NCA cadre? Think about it!:confused:
minigundiplomat
1st Dec 2009, 17:53
More importantly, what are the implications for the RAF NCA cadre? Think about it!http://images.ibsrv.net/ibsrv/res/src:www.pprune.org/get/images/smilies/confused.gif


They will be busy manning the additional 22 CH47 being purchased. Part of the same initiative that sees the Merlin going to the RN.
Could be the last?
1st Dec 2009, 17:59
MGD,

Think about what rank currently undertakes CHF cmn duties and the implication for the RAF........
St Johns Wort
1st Dec 2009, 18:00
JHC aspiations are one thing.........


God Speed to the Merlin chaps and safe home.....
minigundiplomat
1st Dec 2009, 18:27
Think about what rank currently undertakes CHF cmn duties and the implication for the RAF........


Dont see the problem if I'm honest, RN can do whatever they like on the Merlin, RAF can do what they have always done. I think you may be worrying about things that may never happen. Lifes too short, if it happens, there is nothing we can do about it anyway.


God Speed to the Merlin chaps and safe home.....


Amen. Along with all the rest of the guys in theatre.
Seldomfitforpurpose
1st Dec 2009, 19:35
JHC aspiations are one thing.........


God Speed to the Merlin chaps and safe home.....

Missed you on Friday young man :confused: