JFD supports highly successful NATO submarine rescue system aircraft loading exercise with the US Air Force

 

JFD supported a very successful Flying Fish exercise, a NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) aircraft loading evolution, with the US Air Force last September. Held at Royal Air Force Mildenhall in Suffolk, the exercise was conducted to ensure the submarine rescue system equipment can be loaded and transported using the US Air Force’s C5 Super Galaxy aircraft type in the event of a submarine rescue operation.

In an unpredictable world, improving air mobility options for the transportation of submarine intervention and rescue capabilities is critical. Delays in a rescue operation could be catastrophic and it is vital that multiple aircraft types are able to transport the equipment and ensure a timely response to submarine emergencies.

This Flying Fish exercise has significantly improved the options for NSRS air movement because the C5 aircraft is similar in capacity and range to the NSRS’ other prime carrier, the Antonov AN124 aircraft. The AN124 fleet availability had been in some doubt due to the war in Ukraine and therefore proving the C5’s viability as an alternative NSRS carrier was seen by the NSRS participant nations as a very positive enhancement to air mobility of the system.

Gary Lindhofer, Head of Defence Services, JFD, said: "Success in response to any potential submarine rescue incident is reliant on the timely delivery of equipment and personnel to the incident location. 

"Access to a range of proven and heavy lift aircraft from multiple sources is essential, and the achievements and learning gained from this exercise are vital towards the combined efforts of the NSRS Participant Nations and United States Navy in assuring the continued safety of its submariner."