The workout was the latest demonstration of how nations flying the F 35B can operate the aircraft from partner carriers. Earlier in the Highmast deployment the UK group trained alongside US and Japanese F 35Bs. Jets from 617 Squadron and 809 Naval Air Squadron joined Cavour, which is about half the size of HMS Prince of Wales and carries up to ten F 35s with a dozen AW101 helicopters.
“It was an awesome opportunity and privilege to be welcomed aboard and operate UK jets from the Cavour,” said Commander Nick Smith, 809’s Commanding Officer. He added that shared procedures and tactics allow F 35 partners to “effortlessly operate together from one another’s platforms” and that the activity “sounds a powerful message of NATO’s capability to project fifth-generation combat air power at a time and place of its choosing, whether that be a land base or a range of maritime platforms operated by member states.”
His views were echoed by Lieutenant Colonel Mike Carty RM, Commanding Officer of 617 Squadron. “This is a powerful demonstration of how seamlessly NATO forces can operate as one team, proving that when we work together, we present a capable, credible, and united front against any threat,” he said. “This sends a clear message to any would-be aggressor about our unity and resolve.”
A British F 35B pilot served as Landing Signal Officer on Cavour, guiding returning jets to the deck. “‘The language of controlling aircraft in the carrier environment is equal, the procedures and practices are aligned and an Italian Landing Signal Officer could just as easily control F-35s aboard HMS Prince of Wales as I can control aircraft aboard an Italian carrier,” ‘Paddles’ explained. He added that “with European militaries shrinking and the ever increasing threat from our adversaries, the interoperability between NATO allies is more crucial than ever.”
When airborne, the jets were directed by fighter controllers known as Freddies, who manage fifth generation aircraft and act as the link to the carrier group. Freddies are based both on the flagship and on HMS Dauntless, which has delivered air defence throughout the eight month deployment.
The exercise included UK, US Marine Corps and Italian F 35s, Italian AV8 B Harriers, air to air refuelling and airborne early warning aircraft, all set against a detailed real world scenario. Lieutenant Jack Hammond, Fighter Controller 2 on Dauntless, said the F 35B and Type 45 were an effective pairing. “Falcon Strike 25 was an invaluable opportunity to work with NATO allies whilst demonstrating the superior capability and interoperability of fifth-generation aircraft with Daring-class destroyers,” he said.
HMS Dauntless followed the exercise with diplomatic activity, hosting a defence industry day to promote cooperation between UK and Italian industry and armed forces. The ship also demonstrated key capabilities and held a reception for 150 VIPs, including the UK’s Ambassador to Rome and diplomatic representatives from across Italy.
Lieutenant Commander Andrew Barley, Dauntless’ Logistics Officer, praised the outcome of the events. “This was a fantastic opportunity for the Royal Navy to showcase the close relationship between Italy and United Kingdom,” he said. “HMS Dauntless delivered with absolute precision and absolute style, with the flawless execution of the catering services team being at the heart of such success.”
Source: Royal Navy.
