Plymouth's Black Knight blazes a trail in Middle East
A ROYAL Naval helicopter is proving itself as the long-range eyes, ears and claws of warship HMS Monmouth on maritime policing patrol.
The Plymouth-based warship, known as the Black Duke, on patrol in the Middle East deterring smugglers and pirates, is being given a huge advantage over the criminals by flying an armed helicopter known as the Black Knight.
The Lynx maritime attack helicopter of 215 Flight from 815 Naval Air Squadron is armed by a Royal Marines sniper team, missiles and while airborne can 'see' for many miles beyond the ship.
"Leading a small group of men on such an important task is a great privilege and I'm proud of what 215 Flight has achieved so far," said the Fight Commander, Lieutenant Barham.
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"The engineers have worked tirelessly to ensure that we are able to provide the command with the highest level of capability," he added.
The Royal Naval helicopter is embarked for the deployment, and consists of a small, autonomous group of aircrew and engineers, led by the Flight Commander and Observer Lieutenant Ed Barham.
His team consists of pilot, Lieutenant Rob Dixon and an engineering team of eight technicians keeping the aircraft ready for flying at a few minutes notice.
Lt Dixon said: "Frequent training in all our roles is essential in order to be ready for any tasking that may emerge.
"Flying the only single pilot helicopter in the Royal Navy is a job all pilots on 815 Naval Air Squadron are rightly proud of.
"In this hot environment, it becomes an even greater challenge to get the most out of the aircraft."
Comments
by CharlieDodd
Monday, January 28 2013, 11:58AM
“..'The Black Duke and helicopter, on patrol deterring smugglers and pirates'..
Blow off a few heads lads, that'll deter the rest..:)”