The Royal Navy’s 845 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) has been awarded the Boyd Trophy for their outstanding achievements in aviation over the past year.
According to a recent update from the Royal Navy, the Merlin Mk4 helicopter squadron has been recognised for their extensive efforts to support front-line operations in various challenging environments.
The Boyd Trophy, established after the Second World War, is presented annually to individuals, crews, flights, or entire squadrons within the Fleet Air Arm for demonstrating the “finest feat of aviation” over the preceding 12 months. The award highlights achievements ranging from combat operations to introducing new aircraft or technologies into service.
During the period covered by the award, from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, 845 NAS was heavily committed across multiple global theatres. At one point, seven of the squadron’s ten Merlins and all personnel were deployed simultaneously across five locations in Europe and the Middle East.
The squadron’s most notable mission was during Operation Chambray, part of the UK’s response to the Israel-Gaza crisis. Three Merlin Mk4s were embarked on RFA Argus and prepared for operations in a contested environment within 38 hours, including the installation of full ballistic protection and defensive aid suites. Once operational, two of the Merlins were always available, accumulating 270 flying hours in support of training and operations.
Rear Admiral Rimington, Director Force Generation and Rear Admiral Fleet Air Arm, presented the trophy to the squadron’s outgoing Commanding Officer, Commander Ben McGreal, at RNAS Yeovilton. He praised the squadron’s dedication to maintaining operational readiness in diverse and harsh conditions.
The citation for the Boyd Trophy noted that the squadron had achieved a “significantly increased operational capability”, underpinned by successful Arctic training, desert operations in the Middle East, counter-terrorism support in the UK, and participation in major exercises like Cobra Warrior and Wessex Storm.
