Ex Greyhound Thunder: Soldiers and aircrew go through realistic mission scenarios

Personnel have taken part in an exercise designed to build operational experience and improve the readiness of both aircrew and soldiers.

In Exercise Greyhound Thunder, 18 Squadron, 27 Squadron and 3 Para undertook a progressive training programme that increased in realism and complexity at RAF Odiham airfield, challenging personnel to adapt to developing operational scenarios. 

The exercise culminated in several realistic day and night missions that examined planning, coordination, command and control, and force integration, meaning that the units could enhance their resilience. 

• F-35 Lightning? Lightning II? Hold on, just how many times does Lightning strike?
• Combat Archer: US Air Force's premier fighter weapons evaluation exercise in Europe
• Survive, evade, resist: How the Armed Forces are taught to return them to the fight

The personnel and an 'aggressor squadron' conducted training on the airfield during the day and moved to the Longmoor Training Area at night. 

The training reflected the realities of modern conflict, including tactical flying, formation combat assault drills and operations in a simulated threat environment. 

RAF Odiham in Hampshire is a frontline support helicopter base working within the Joint Aviation Command, providing critical and rapid support for UK military operations globally. 

It is home to the UK Chinook Force, and it operates three Chinook squadrons.