Afghanistan

UK aims to bring about a stable, secure and self-sustainable Afghanistan with a democratic government that can maintain the rule of law, with a sustainable security environment where the population is free from coercion, a viable legitimate market economy that is increasingly able to support basic social needs.

Land locked Afghanistan lies hundreds of miles from the nearest coast. Much of the international rebuilding strategy relies on patrols by troops, visibly enforcing the sense that the security is in place for community life to return to normal after the harsh Taleban regime. Air support is vital, ferrying the military and their kit from strongholds such as Camp Bastion, hub of operations in Helmand, to the forward operating bases and patrol bases. Logistic support ensures the military machine works smoothly, and when things go wrong top notch medical facilities will save lives.

Good intelligence will help avoid bloodshed, both by monitoring insurgency and by sensitivity towards and awareness of culture and customs.

So what has this got to do with the Royal Navy?

Everything because the Naval Service will be undertaking all these roles until the end of 2011. In fact, it is estimated that 60 per cent of the UK effort in Afghanistan will be Royal Navy and Royal Marines, as in 2008.

Operation Herrick 14 is led by 3 Commando Brigade with two of its constituents, 42 and 45 Commandos the tip of the spear, but just as adept in winning the trust of the locals as winning a firefight with Taleban forces.

Transporting troops, flying 'hot and high', will be the Junglie Sea Kings of 845, 846 and 847 Naval Air Squadrons, while the 'baggers' of 854 and 857 Airborne Surveillance and Control (ASAC) Sea Kings scour the area with powerful radar. RN and RM medics, many Reservists, work alongside UK and international compatriots in facilities which equal that of any UK hospital, while supplies to the front line are the responsibility of the Royal Marines' Commando Logistic Regiment. Helping engage with the locals will be the 30 Cdo Information Exploitation Group Royal Marines.