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RAF Tornados keep operations whirling

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Carolyn Viss
  • 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  There's a two-seater aircraft that sits on the flightline here that, although small, packs a 16,000-pound thrust and a mean attack capability. 

The Tornado GR4A, equipped with long-range, high-speed precision strike capability, is able to fly supersonic at low levels and in all weather. 

"It also has a Digital Joint Reconnaissance Pod, kind of like a T.V. that is used for tactical reconnaissance missions," said a Tor Det navigator from the Squadron currently deployed here. The Tornado provides close air support for troops on the ground and flies reconnaissance missions in support of Coalition Forces." 

Of the Brits who are stationed here in a variety of career fields including air-to-air refueling, maintenance, military police, supply and welfare, one third of them are dedicated members of the Tor Det. 

"Our taskings come from the Combined Air and Space Operations Center. Because there are more American forces in theater than there are British, most times when we deploy, we're with a U.S. unit." 

Because of the capabilities of the furtive aircraft, it's often sent on short notice and to locations far from its deployed operating bases. 

"Flying here is quite exciting," he said. "Although, similar to the U.S. Air Force, we train the same way we operate, in a deployed environmen, there's the possibility of a real need arising at any time. It's important for all of us to keep our concentration up to provide the best support possible when it's needed." 

Whenever the Tornados have been stationed in the Gulf, they've maintained a close working relationship with the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing. 

"We enjoy working with the U.S. Air Force here," says the Tor Det Squadron Commander. "We support each other so we can provide a fully integrated capability, which enables us to 'control the air' over Iraq and immediately react to the requirements of the Coalition Forces on the ground." 

The unit pride here is but a small reflection of the Royal Air Force pride, celebrating its 90th anniversary April 1. 

"At every deployed location around the world, as well as at home, we'll have various forms of celebration and ceremony, including one here at the Memorial Plaza," explains the Officer Commanding 901 Expeditionary Air Wing. "It's a significant time for us as we reflect with pride on the sacrifices and achievements of our predecessors and our current comrades. 

"Looking back, we can see how much technology has developed and how we've evolved with it to ensure that we maintain a modern force that continues in its commitment to make the world a safer place. All you have to do is look at the aircraft we have flown over the last 90 years and you can see how much we've changed! 

"The one thing to remember most in all of this talk of technology and time is the people who have, continue, and will in the future make it all possible as a 'force for good' in the world."