RAF IX (B) Squadron show their force in Kandahar
4 Feb 10
Since arriving at Kandahar Airfield last month, the Tornados of the RAF's IX (Bomber) Squadron have conducted several 'shows of force' in support of ground forces and also been involved in some kinetic activity against insurgents.
A Tornado GR4 taxis out for a RAPTOR reconnaissance sortie
[Picture: Crown Copyright/MOD 2010]
The squadron's crews have been flying scheduled close air support missions, have scrambled their ground alert aircraft and have also conducted numerous reconnaissance missions using the acclaimed RAPTOR pod.
The Reconnaissance Airborne Pod for Tornado (RAPTOR) is one of the most advanced reconnaissance sensors in the world today. It can download real-time, long-range, oblique photography to ground stations during a sortie.
The ground crew have also maintained aircraft serviceability at the highest level in the dry and dusty conditions of Kandahar.
IX (B) Squadron, who are based at RAF Marham in Norfolk, took over from 31 Squadron, also from Marham, in Kandahar at the start of January 2010.
Wing Commander Nick Hay, Officer Commanding IX (B) Squadron, said:
"All on IX (B) Squadron have worked extremely hard to ensure we are ready to provide air support to the ISAF and Afghan forces striving to ensure security and facilitate development in Afghanistan.
Flight Lieutenant Stu Phillips debriefs Corporal Ed Wright of on the results of their sortie with the RAPTOR pod, whilst Corporal Paul Smith and Sergeant Chris Everett, who maintain the pod, listen in
[Picture: Cpl Steve Bain RAF ABIPP, Crown Copyright/MOD 2010]
"While we obviously possess a potent offensive capability that is both precise and discriminate, the crews are fully aware of the implications of a kinetic strike among the local populace and I have been impressed with their performance to date, at times in particularly testing situations.
"The RAPTOR reconnaissance pod continues to provide excellent imagery for the land forces and the team from TIW [Tactical Imagery-Intelligence Wing] continue to demonstrate an eye for detail - they are key players in the fight against improvised explosive devices."
The Tactical Imagery-Intelligence Wing specialises in the exploitation of electro-optical and infra-red imagery, from a range of sensors, including the RAPTOR, producing intelligence in direct support of deployed operations.
The Wing is also engaged in the exploitation of full-motion imagery collected by the ever-growing number of unmanned aerial vehicles deployed on operations.
Wing Commander Hay continued:
"Obviously, while we all have a job to do in maintaining and sustaining the current pace of operations, our thoughts are with our families and friends and we thank them for their ever-present support and for their constant influx of letters, e-mails and thoughts.
"Finally, our thanks go to all on 31 Squadron for an excellent handover and I hope they are enjoying a well-earned break after a job well done."
IX (Bomber) Squadron will complete a three-month tour on Operation HERRICK before handing over to II (AC) Squadron in the spring.