RAF Odiham crews prepare for modern conflict
The base has allowed the media in to watch them train alongside the Army
Personnel from RAF Odiham have been taking part in a 48-hour exercise to prepare for the realities of modern conflict.
The exercise, called Greyhound Thunder, conducted from RAF Odiham by day and within the Longmoor Training Area by night, brought together CH-47 Chinook crews from 18 Squadron and 27 Squadron alongside troops from A Company, 3 PARA. The activity focused on the planning and execution of a simulated airfield assault in a contested environment, testing tactics, decision-making and teamwork against a range of threats.
During the exercise, Chinooks were tasked with transporting platoons from A Company, 3 PARA, onto a simulated objective protected by a variety of threats. A dedicated Red Force from RAF Spadeadam utilised a modern threat emulator that replicates the risk presented by shoulder launched anti-aircraft missiles, creating a realistic operational environment for aircrew to train against.
To counter these threats, Chinook crews practised a range of battlefield survivability techniques, including low-level tactical flying, formation operations, defensive manoeuvres and the employment of aircraft protection systems. The exercise also explored ultra-low-level flying as a means of reducing exposure to detection and engagement, all while operating under minimal communications.
A White Force team, comprising Air Traffic Control personnel, Intelligence Officers and threat experts, maintained oversight of the activity throughout. Acting as referees, they monitored operations, assessed the actions of all participants and delivered honest, evidence-based debriefs to maximise learning opportunities across the force.
While the Chinook is often recognised for its distinctive sound and appearance, its heavy-lift capability makes it a versatile support helicopter. It plays a critical role in inserting troops into battle, sustaining supply lines, evacuating casualties and extracting troops when required. Exercise GREYHOUND THUNDER provided an opportunity to demonstrate these capabilities while reinforcing the close integration between air and ground forces.
Organiser of the Exercise, Squadron Leader Tim Griffiths, said:
"The threat environment we train for today is very different from that of previous generations. As threats evolve, we must evolve too, constantly developing new tactics and techniques to ensure we retain our operational advantage. Exercise GREYHOUND THUNDER allowed us to challenge ourselves against representative threats and explore how air and ground forces can continue to operate effectively in contested environments.
“The real strength of the exercise was our people. The professionalism demonstrated by aircrew, paratroopers, planners and evaluators throughout was exceptional. Their ability to adapt, learn lessons quickly and work seamlessly as a team adds real value to Defence and ensures we remain ready for the challenges of future operations."
Exercise GREYHOUND THUNDER highlighted the importance of realistic training in preparing personnel for future operations. By combining advanced technology, representative threats and rigorous assessment, RAF Odiham and its partners continue to develop agile, adaptable forces ready to meet the challenges of an evolving operational environment.