Seventy years after their most famous mission the Dambusters of 617 Squadron are deploying to Afghanistan for their final operational tour on the Tornado GR4.

Air crews have been honing their air combat skills before flying out for what will be their last tour of duty in Afghanistan, later this month.

The four-month deployment supporting ISAF ground forces in Afghanistan will also be a swan song for the squadron’s role with the Tornado.

Formed in 1943 as an elite unit to carry out the epic World War II raid on the German industrial heartland, the squadron will be the first UK unit to fly the new F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter, due to enter service in 2016.

At the end of a year when the squadron remembered and paid homage to their forebears, the men and women of today’s 617 Squadron are ready for their next challenge, providing support to coalition forces on Op Herrick.

Officer Commanding 617 Sqn, Wg Cdr David Arthurton, said: “We have been immensely privileged to witness the 70th anniversary commemoration events this year, it’s given members of the squadron an opportunity to reflect on the events of 1943 and I believe the spirit and ethos of the original squadron endures to this day.”

After the deployment the squadron will disband but will reform equipped with the Lockheed F-35 Joint Strike Fighter in 2016.

The squadron will operate from RAF Marham as the first frontline unit to operate the next-generation stealth fighter, alongside Royal Navy personnel.

But while the Tornado GR4 may be old she is still effective. Senior Engineering Officer Squadron Leader Mike Beesley said: “Even though it’s an old airframe it still has a cutting edge which is much valued in theatre.”

Months of training culminated in a Mission Rehearsal Exercise (MREX) at RAF Lossiemouth, the squadron facing a series of challenges designed to ensure they are fully prepared for their detachment at Kandahar Airfield.

Wg Cdr Arthurton said: “MREX has been a fitting culmination to the squadron training programme and gives me absolute confidence that we are prepared to face the challenges that lie ahead for us in Afghanistan.”

Run by the Expeditionary Air Wing Training Team, scenarios included simulated rocket attacks, aircraft scrambles and accidents. Sqn Ldr Mike Beesley said: “It’s been a long process of preparation over a period of six months culminating in this exercise. I’ve been really impressed with the level of preparation of the team.”

Leading the Training Team was Sqn Ldr Simon Reade, who said: “The MREX has gone very well, it’s a brilliant opportunity for the Dambusters to demonstrate their skills and potential prior to their final operational deployment.

“No matter what we’re confronted them with 617 have successfully coped with every scenario and they are now properly prepared for the rigours of Afghanistan.”