Brize Squadrons Handover Tanking Responsibilities In The Middle East

(RAF) After 22 years of almost continuous operations in the Middle East, the crews of 101 Squadron handed over their duties to the incoming 216 Squadron.

The VC10s and crews from Brize Norton have been providing air-to-air tanking since the first Gulf crisis in August 1990. Apart from a very short spell back home, they have refuelled aircraft in support of both Gulf wars, northern and southern no-fly zones, and more recently in support of OP HERRICK. They have operated from bases at Incirlik, Bahrain, and Al Udeid, before moving to their present location with 902 Expeditionary Air Wing.

The handover forms part of the planned drawdown of the VC10 fleet, which will culminate in an out of service date sometime next year.

Meanwhile the VC10 will continue to provide support for the UK’s Quick Reaction Alert force and to the Falkland Islands.

CO 101 Squadron, Wing Commander Kevin Brookes said: ‘Having had such a long history supporting operations in the region, it’s always sad when it comes to an end. However, I’d like to wish 216 Squadron all the best for their tour of duty’.

Operationally, the handover went seamlessly, with the Tristar and crews successfully carrying out their first sortie on day one. Just one day later the VC10 left for home.

The Tristar brings a bigger payload and greater range than its Brize Norton counterpart, thus further enhancing support to coalition air forces engaged in OP HERRICK.

Air-to-air refuelling is an essential component in the fight against the insurgents and the transition to a self-sustaining Afghan security force. The tankers are a ‘Force Multiplier’, enabling coalition to get more out of their existing aircraft.

Squadron Leader Phil McConnell, the incoming 216 Squadron detachment commander said: ‘We are immensely proud to be here in support of coalition forces. We’ve been looking forward to this tour of duty for some time now, and we’ve been training hard to ensure that we have a successful detachment.

101 Squadron did a great job and we have started strongly too, with 100% mission success in the first week, refuelling a range of coalition aircraft. We have received great support from all the guys and girls on 902 Expeditionary Air Wing. They have made us feel so welcome.’

RAF press release

Editor: Sqn Ldr Duncan Arnold

Photograph Tristar: Cpl Neil Bryden

Photograph VC-10: M. van Leeuwen Z.A.P.P.