Operation Clockwork: Merlins, Wildcats and Apaches navigate 'hardest environment on earth'
Commando Helicopter Force's Merlins and Wildcats have been working together, along with Apaches, in the Norwegian mountains – where the tundra and environment can be just as deadly as any potential enemy force.
The training provided on Operation Clockwork is "absolutely essential", Lieutenant Larry Lambert, 1 Lt Op Clockwork, Commando Helicopter Force, told Forces News.
"It's probably the hardest environment on earth we actually operate aircraft in. It's vital to provide the defence of the northern flank that we are tasked to do by defence," he added.
Operation Clockwork is based out of Bardufoss Air Station of the Royal Norwegian Air Force.
The training the operation provides to personnel from the Commando Helicopter Force (CHF) means they can be held ready to operate in the High North at just a few days' notice.
In Norway, CHF operates the Merlin Mk 4s from 845 Naval Air Squadron – where the primary role is to transfer equipment or UK Commando Force personnel to and from wherever they need to be.
Additionally, the Wildcats of 847 Naval Air Squadron provide overwatch, ensuring the Merlins' safe passage anytime and anywhere.
The Wildcats have been using general-purpose machine-guns for target training in the mountains.
It is all in preparation for Exercise Nordic Response which involves military personnel from 13 Nato allies and partners in the High North, the territories of Nordic countries located throughout the Arctic beyond the Polar Circle.
CHF is carrying out live firing training along with the Mk1 Apaches from 656 Squadron.
The attack helicopter is on standby to provide aviation strike capability to the UK Commando Force should it be required.
However, the aim is not to come under attack and remain as undetected as possible when moving Royal Marine strike companies or vital equipment and stores.
The Commando Mobile Air Operations Team provides advanced force reconnaissance, making sure helicopter landing sites are safe and clear of any potential adversaries or geographical hazards.
Once both squadrons have completed Clockwork, they will remain in northern Norway to support Nato's largest military exercise since the Cold War, Steadfast Defender.
Operation Clockwork has been training personnel from Joint Helicopter Command in this environment for decades, as the British military, along with Nato allies, works to protect the Nordic region.
And with the current complex security challenges in Europe since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the training is even more pertinent.
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