847 Naval Air Squadron has taken to Twitter to highlight their crucial role in the UK’s amphibious operations.
“Working with Commando Forces as the UK’s Amphibious Operations aviation experts, we fly low over the sea to insert troops into the objective area. Exercising these skills off the South Coast we ensure we are always ready to fight,” the Squadron tweeted.
Equipped with the Wildcat AH1 combat helicopter, 847 Naval Air Squadron provides reconnaissance, air support and anti-armour capabilities to 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines.
Working with Commando Forces as the UK’s Amphibious Operations aviation experts, we fly low over the sea to insert troops into the objective area. Exercising these skills off the South Coast we ensure we are always ready to fight.#RoyalNavy #RoyalMarines #Aviation #FleetAirArm pic.twitter.com/6tapVKoaLd
— 847 Naval Air Squadron (@847NAS) July 9, 2024
All personnel in 847 are trained in specialised fieldcraft and survival techniques that allow them to operate in extreme environments, from icy tundra to desert conditions. It is one of the smallest in the Royal Navy, with fewer than 100 personnel.
As the only Commando Helicopter Force squadron to use the Wildcat AH1 helicopter, 847 more than lives up to its motto: Ex Alto Concutimus (‘We Strike From On High’).
Yep, the Sqns assets are drawn from the mere 34 that were provided to the Army to replace legacy Lynx.
‘Anti Armour Capabilities’. What is that capability exactly I think I’ve missed something?
Martlet missiles, up to 20 can be carried. 5 mile range, 6.6lb warhead. Lynx/Super Lynx that preceded the Wildcat also had CRV7 & TOW.
I don’t think Martlet is carried by AAC Wildcat, which this is.
Does 847 Naval air squadron operate commando Wildcats or ASW/surface strike Wildcats? Just checked & indeed they operate AH1 commando Wildcats, in which case what is the “anti-armour” capability the article says?-beyond the ability of the door mounted 0.5″ HMG which can pierce light APC armour? I thought TOW capability went when the Lynx/Super Lynx was retired.
Yes Frank, as I mentioned top of thread, they use some of the 34 AAC Wildcats that are pooled in 1 Regiment AAC.
TOW is long, ling gone.
Anti armour, no clue, the Army Wildcats are recc assets in support of Apache, and I assume these are the same as they come from the same pool.
If I was flying a Wildcat to spot for Apaches or just on general recce, I’d want at least a couple of ATGW or similar to protect the aircraft & crew. You never know how far away an Apache may be when you need one.