Commando helicopters build desert experience in U.S.

The air and ground crews of 847 Naval Air Squadron are undertaking essential desert training as part of Exercise Emerald Warrior at Naval Air Facility El Centro, California.

According to a news release, the deployment, located about 100 miles east of San Diego, is designed to prepare the squadron’s personnel and their AH1 Wildcat helicopters for operations in extreme environments.

This follows the squadron’s recent arctic training in Norway, demonstrating their ability to operate in both cold and hot climates.

847 NAS, based at RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset, provides vital support to the Royal Marines with its Wildcats, including reconnaissance, top cover, artillery spotting, and transport of troops and personnel.

During this exercise, the squadron is refining its air-to-air combat and air-to-ground operations in challenging desert conditions. According to Lieutenant James Parker, a pilot with the squadron quoted in the news release, “Operating in the desert environment is crucial for Commando Helicopter Force aviators,” as it prepares them for the harsh conditions they may encounter during real-world missions.

In addition to flying, the deployment also involves survival training for all personnel, with a focus on handling extreme temperatures, maintaining hydration, and navigating the risks posed by local wildlife such as scorpions and snakes. This training is designed to mirror the Arctic survival training the squadron undergoes in Norway.

Personnel have been learning to adapt to the desert environment, including practising techniques for sourcing food in remote locations. “Operating in the 48-degree (118°F) heat of the Sonoran Desert requires hard work and mental resilience from all involved,” said Lt Parker.

The squadron will remain at El Centro for several more weeks as they continue to build their skills in desert operations, further ensuring their readiness to support ground forces in a variety of environments.

The Wildcat helicopter

Replacing the older Lynx MK8, the Wildcat is equipped with more powerful engines, allowing it to perform in extreme weather conditions, making it a highly capable asset in both arctic and desert environments. The helicopter can fulfil a wide range of roles, including anti-surface warfare, force protection, and counter-piracy operations. In addition, the Wildcat is equipped to take on an anti-submarine role, further enhancing its versatility in maritime operations.

The Wildcat features advanced technology, including a digital glass cockpit with four multi-function displays that improve situational awareness and communications. It is also equipped with a nose-mounted MX-15 Wescam Electro Optical Device (EOD), which allows the helicopter to detect targets at long ranges, day or night, and in adverse weather conditions.

The Wildcat’s firepower includes Sting Ray torpedoes, a 12.7mm M3M machine gun, and Martlet and Sea Venom missiles, making it a valuable asset for a variety of missions. Its flexibility also extends to maritime lift tasks, search and rescue, and humanitarian operations, providing critical support in diverse scenarios.