Fleet Air Arm Boys Volume Three: Helicopters - True Tales From royal Navy Men and Women Air and Ground Crew

Helicopters have been used by the Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm for over 70 years, initially for SAR duties and later for anti-submarine and anti-ship attack roles. The 1956 Suez campaign saw the first operational use of Whirlwind helicopters, and the Commando helicopter force became known as the "Junglies" during the 1960s Indonesian Confrontation. Helicopters were instrumental in the Falklands War, performing tasks such as inserting Special Forces behind enemy lines, protecting the Task Force from missile attack, and recovering wounded troops. At home, SAR efforts have saved lives against the odds. The helicopter has proven itself to be a vital asset, with the Fleet Air Arm's operational force being entirely rotary-wing until the arrival of the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers. Today's Merlins and Wildcats continue to demonstrate the helicopter's importance.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 31 July 2022
Publisher: Grub Street Publishing

For over 70 years, helicopters have been a crucial component of the Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm, playing a vital role in sea operations. Initially employed for search and rescue (SAR) missions from aircraft carriers, their rapid development and extensive service experience led to their expansion into critical anti-submarine and anti-ship attack roles.

The 1956 Suez campaign marked a significant milestone when Whirlwind helicopters were first utilized for the air insertion of troops into a combat zone. This capability was further enhanced with the introduction of helicopters like the Wessex, Sea King, and the modern Merlin. The Commando helicopter force, particularly during the 1960s Indonesian Confrontation, earned the nickname "Junglies," a name that they still hold today.

It is widely acknowledged that the loss of either of the 1982 Task Force aircraft carriers during the Falklands War would have significantly hindered the British victory. Similarly, the absence of helicopters would have had a profound impact. Their indispensable tasks, including the insertion of Special Forces behind enemy lines, protecting the Task Force from Exocet missile attacks, and recovering wounded troops amidst enemy fire, are widely recognized as instrumental in securing the success of the conflict.

Domestically, the SAR efforts by both the Royal Navy and their RAF counterparts have yielded remarkable stories of individuals being saved in challenging circumstances. Royal Navy destroyers and frigates have also long benefited from having their own helicopter Flight aboard, enabling them to operate in extreme weather conditions and providing a versatile and efficient means of transportation.

Once considered a novelty, helicopters have proven their worth over time. In the decade preceding the arrival of the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers, helicopters played a pivotal role in naval operations. Their adaptability, reliability, and ability to perform critical tasks at sea have solidified their position as an indispensable asset in modern naval warfare.

Weight: 964g
Dimension: 165 x 240 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911667278