Defence

Dambusters prepare for Afghanistan deployment and final tour with Tornado GR4

Posted 7 October 2013

Seventy years after their most famous mission, the Dambusters of 617 Squadron are off to Afghanistan for their final tour with the Tornado GR4.

Above: A 617 Squadron RAF Tornado GR4 flies over a dam.
Picture: Copyright Jamie Hunter 2013

Aircrews have been honing their air combat skills in Scotland before flying out for what will be their last tour of duty in Afghanistan later this month.

Months of training culminated in a mission rehearsal exercise (MRX) at RAF Lossiemouth, where the squadron faced a series of challenges designed to ensure they are fully prepared for their detachment at Kandahar Airfield.

Above: Members of 617 Squadron tend to a 'casualty' during a mission rehearsal exercise in Scotland.
Picture: Senior Aircraftwoman Tracey Dobson, Crown copyright

Officer Commanding 617 Squadron, Wing Commander David Arthurton, said: "The MRX has been a fitting culmination to the squadron training programme and gives me absolute confidence that we are prepared to face the challenges that lie ahead for us in Afghanistan.

Run by the Expeditionary Air Wing Training Team, scenarios included simulated rocket attacks, aircraft scrambles and accidents. Senior Engineering Officer Squadron Leader Mike Beesley said: "It’s been a long process of preparation over a period of 6 months culminating in this exercise. I’ve been really impressed with the level of preparation of the team.

Above: A 617 Squadron RAF Tornado GR4 during a mission rehearsal exercise in Scotland.
Picture: Senior Aircraftwoman Tracey Dobson, Crown copyright

Leading the Training Team was Squadron Leader Simon Reade, who said: "The MRX has gone very well, it’s a brilliant opportunity for the Dambusters to demonstrate their skills and potential prior to their final operational deployment.

"No matter what we’ve confronted them with, 617 have successfully coped with every scenario and they are now properly prepared for the rigours of Afghanistan."

The four-month deployment supporting International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan will be a swan song for the squadron’s role with the Tornado.

Above: An RAF Tornado GR4 with 617 Squadron's 70th anniversary tail artwork clearly visible.
Picture: Senior Aircraftwoman Tracey Dobson, Crown copyright

After the deployment the squadron will disband, but will reform equipped with the F-35 Lightning II (below) in 2016. The squadron will operate from RAF Marham as the first front line unit to operate the next-generation stealth fighter, alongside Royal Navy personnel.