The Royal Air Force’s Tactical Medical Wing has successfully concluded the demanding two-week Exercise Athena Phoenix, held at Leuchars Station and Strensall Barracks, according to a news update.
This high-intensity event was designed to test the RAF’s medical readiness and operational skills under challenging and unpredictable conditions.
The exercise pushed the Air Staging Unit to its limits, testing its ability to manage complex medical scenarios and handle patient transport and care in high-pressure environments.
The event also saw cooperation between different branches of the UK military, with the British Army conducting their own training under Exercise Jorvik Storm simultaneously.
Throughout the exercise, RAF medics worked alongside their counterparts from the United States Air Force’s 911th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron. The exercise focused on refining skills and fostering teamwork, ensuring the RAF’s ability to operate effectively in critical medical situations.
Wing Commander Smith, Officer Commanding Tactical Medical Wing, highlighted the collaborative aspect, stating, “Exercise Athena Phoenix has been a great opportunity to deliver collective training and capability assurance. It has also enabled us to showcase interoperability within the Defence Medical Services, collaborate with Global Enablement forces, and engage with a strategic partner nation.”
The exercise also involved regular and reservist personnel from across Defence Medical Services, supported by 90 Signals Unit and 1 Air Mobility Wing, providing specialist communications and rapid-deployment capabilities. Flight Lieutenant Nevin reflected on the experience, saying, “Athena Phoenix has been a fantastic experience. It’s been a great opportunity to work with a team that had such vast knowledge and willingness to share.”
Overall, Athena Phoenix demonstrated the RAF’s ability to deliver high-quality medical care and seamless coordination in a variety of scenarios.
