845 Naval Air Squadron return to Yeovilton

Three Mk4 Merlins flew in formation over England’s westernmost county as they made their way home to Yeovilton, their mission complete.

Four Commando-carrying helicopters from 845 Naval Air Squadron returned to base after four months away in the USA – mostly at sea with HMS Queen Elizabeth, plus some time ashore working with the US Marine Corps.

The helicopters from Commando Helicopter Force were embarked on the carrier to conduct numerous missions: Search-and-rescue duties should an F-35 Lightning ditch, practise troop carrying duties for Royal Marines, and hone skills extracting aircrew shot down/crashed behind enemy lines, making use of the US Marines’ huge base at Quantico.