In the Air

With more than 100 years of aviation experience, maritime air power operating from sea or on land remains as vital today as when it was first conceived.

Helicopters operating from the decks of ships extend the operational footprint of a Task Group at sea and allow submarines and surface ship threats to be dealt with.

Naval aviation assets are fully integrated in warfare at sea but can also fight with the Army and Air Force.

Maritime-based aviation plays a vital role in power projection ashore; the ability to operate aircraft from amphibious capable shipping offshore means that military action can be taken at a time and place of our choice.

Skilled aviators, deck-team and engineers, all experienced in the discipline of conducting intense flying operations from ships, are able to coordinate and rapidly deploy forces ashore and support them from the sea.

Continuing the reputation for innovation and ‘can do attitude’, the Sea King ASACS is a real success story on how maritime assets can contribute to a joint campaign ashore. Developed from the Airborne Early Warning Version, it has been upgraded and now operates as a highly capable surveillance platform and it is equally comfortable finding insurgents in Afghanistan and detecting low-flying missiles threatening a task force.

Fixed-wing aircraft have also played vital roles and the distinguished service of the Harrier in the Falklands and Afghanistan in the modern era resonates with Battles such as Taranto and Mediterranean in the past.

The introduction of the Queen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers and the F35 aircraft will provide a world-leading capability that will allow the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm to continue to protect our nation’s interests across the globe.