Chinook helicopter crews from the British Bases say they are ready to support Cyprus during the summer firefighting season, following last week’s joint exercise with Republic of Cyprus forces.
The Chinook crew from RAF Akrotiri’s 1310 Flight completed their training on 1 May and used exercise Ifestos, coordinated by the Republic of Cyprus, to put that training into practice alongside their Cypriot counterparts.
Squadron Leader Joel Babbage, officer commanding 1310 Flight, said the exercise “proved to be a highly valuable training event, particularly in strengthening interoperability with Republic of Cyprus assets,” providing a realistic environment to integrate procedures, communications and tactical coordination with partner forces.
He said working alongside Republic of Cyprus units enhanced understanding of their capabilities and operating methods, enabling more effective joint planning and execution.
Heading into fire season, the Bases will keep one Chinook always ready to get airborne. Babbage described the aircraft as ideally suited to aerial firefighting, calling it “one of, if not the most, capable heavy-lift helicopters in the world.”
He said its power performance allows it to operate effectively in high temperatures and demanding terrain whilst carrying significant loads, with crews bringing extensive operational experience in precision flying, load management and situational awareness from their primary battlefield support role.