UK: Merlin Sub Hunters Go Dutch

Whilst visiting Royal Naval establishment across the UK, Officers from the Royal Netherlands Navy’s called into Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose for a briefing with ‘Sub-Hunting Aircrew’ on tactics and procedures.

The Dutch Navy’s Principle Warfare Officers Submarines – PWO (SM) Course visited 824 Naval Air Squadron for a look around the Merlin MK 2 and had discussions with the helicopters aircrew on tactics and techniques used by the Fleet Air Arms latest Submarine hunter.

“When these Dutch submariners complete their course they will be responsible to their Boats Captain for knowing the capabilities of Anti Submarine Helicopters,” said Lieutenant Martin Young, Helicopter Warfare Officer on 824 NAS.

“As a NATO partner they could eventually have to rely on RN Helicopters during Operations; these visits have benefits for everybody.”

When qualified they will become the main tactician on board their submarine and have to use all aspects of war fighting to avoid detection.

During their nationwide visit they will take part in discussions and exchange experiences with British submariners and aircrew on how each other operate.

As the home of helicopter anti-submarine warfare, 824 NAS hosted their visit, briefing them on how helicopters are employed to try and sink submarines.

Lt Martin Young continues, “The Dutch are a very close ally and visits are often reciprocated with our courses in Holland, we train together regularly on exercise serials with Flag Officer Sea Training (FOST) out of Devonport and Exercise Joint Warrior in Scotland.”

Press Release, October 29, 2013; Image: Royal Navy