Royal Navy Merlins Swoop Over Las Vegas

After spending several weeks supporting 1000 Royal Marines in the harsh conditions of California's Mojave desert during Exercise Black Alligator, Royal Navy Merlin helicopters have flown to Nevada to train with their US counterparts.

Exercise United Action took place at the iconic Nellis Air Force Base (AFB), near the 'sin city' of Las Vegas.

Focusing on 'Joint Personnel Recovery' the aircraft from the Commando Helicopter Force of 845 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) flew alongside HH60 'Pavehawks' of the USAF 66th (Jolly Greens) Rescue Squadron.

The Jolly Greens were created following the Korean War to be able to recover American airmen from any environment and against any threat.

The Exercise culminated with a 4-ship mission with two Royal Navy Merlins and two Pavehawks performing a simulated rescue.

Flt Lt Tim Thorogood from 845 NAS said: "The introduction of new tactics gave a fresh way of viewing JPR, and of course the opportunity to establish interoperability with our Allies was invaluable."

"With Nellis adjacent to Las Vegas, flying the helicopters over the famous bright lights of the 'Vegas Strip' is something I'll never forget."

The Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) are formed from four Naval Air Squadrons flying Sea King, Merlin and Wildcat helicopters. Nicknamed the 'Junglies' after their exploits in Borneo in the 1960s they're now based at RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset.