During Exercise CLOCKWORK in Norway, the UK’s Commando Helicopter Force Wildcat helicopters guided air and ground assets in a ground-attack role—honing specialist capabilities and developing new tactics alongside the Future Commando Force.
All images are Crown Copyright and were taken by Photographer POPhot Lee Blease
According to a statement, the Wildcats worked with ground troops and F-35As from the Norwegian Airforce to achieve the mission.
“During operation CLOCKWORK in Norway Wildcat Helicopters from 847 NAS Squadron conduct a flying training sortie carrying out a ground attack role by guiding air assets and ground troops on to targets.
Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) which is part of Joint Helicopter Command (JHC) are currently deployed in Norway on Exercise CLOCKWORK to maintain their specialist capabilities and develop new tactics alongside the Future Commando Force.
The UK has conducted cold-weather training in Norway for over 50 years and is a committed and capable partner in the High North. The UK is one of only a small number of nations capable of operating in this demanding environment.”
The Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) is a specialised unit within the United Kingdom’s Joint Helicopter Command (JHC), tasked with delivering agile and robust air support to the Royal Marines and other combat arms.
Operating a fleet that includes advanced rotary-wing aircraft such as the AgustaWestland Merlin and the Westland Wildcat, CHF is equipped to perform rapid troop insertions, medical evacuations, and logistical support in both maritime and land-based operations.
Personnel within the Commando Helicopter Force undergo rigorous, continuous training to master the sophisticated skills required for operating in challenging and hostile environments. Their expertise in advanced navigation, aerial tactics, and coordinated manoeuvres is complemented by the outstanding performance of both the Merlin and the Wildcat.
These aircraft not only enhance the force’s operational flexibility but also ensure interoperability with other branches of the British Armed Forces.
Indeed, stunning pics – but now that we have lost Albion and Bulwark how are we going to get a large force of RM to Norway in an emergency? Apparently the Norwegian government is unhappy about the situation
If we control the ports are not Argus, the Bays and Point class sufficient? I see they have restored the Point class contract from 4 back to 6. I’ve not seen any announcement on the design of MRSS. I wonder if this isn’t an indication of the direction MRSS might take – US style commercial conversions like MV Ocean Trader?