A Royal Navy Wildcat helicopter has been delivered to the Middle East by a Royal Air Force C-17 Globemaster, supporting the ongoing deployment of HMS Lancaster as part of Operation Kipion, according to an update from the RAF.
The C-17, operated by 99 Squadron from RAF Brize Norton, flew the AW159 Wildcat helicopter from 815 Naval Air Squadron directly from the UK. Once in theatre, the new Wildcat replaced the ship’s previous aircraft, which was then flown back to the UK for deep maintenance at RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset.
In addition to the aircraft swap, the RAF delivered essential supplies to sustain HMS Lancaster’s extended deployment. The Type 23 frigate remains based in the Middle East under the long-running maritime security operation.
The mission was coordinated by 902 Expeditionary Air Wing, one of the RAF’s forward-deployed units. Squadron Leader Becca McNeillie, Officer Commanding 902 EAW, was quoted as saying it was “a great example of a successful joint operation between the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy.” She added that the effort “required planning between both services and partner nations,” and noted the team were “delighted to be able to play our part in supporting HMS Lancaster and her crew.”
The Wildcat plays a vital role in maritime operations, including surveillance, anti-surface warfare, and counter-piracy. The helicopter deployed aboard Lancaster has already supported major operational outcomes, including a large drug seizure—one of the Royal Navy’s most significant in the region in recent years.
Lieutenant Commander Rob Guest, the embarked 815 NAS Flight Commander, was quoted as saying: “The support provided by the RAF has enabled not only continued aviation operations from HMS Lancaster in the form of a new aircraft, but also the regeneration of the replaced aircraft now back at 815 NAS, providing increased Wildcat Maritime Force resilience for the future.”
The operation underlines the UK’s ability to conduct strategic airlift missions globally and reflects the close cooperation between the Royal Navy and RAF in sustaining deployed forces abroad.
A classic example of why strategic air lift capability is so important.
I am making a good salary from home $4580-$5240/week , which is amazing under a year ago I was jobless in a horrible economy. I thank God every day I was blessed with these instructions and now its my duty to pay it forward and share it with Everyone,
Here is I started_______ 𝐖𝐖𝐖.𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐊𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝟏.𝐂𝐎𝐌
Stuff & personnel needs to be brought home from time to time. Cheaper and easier than bringing the ship home probably.