An Cosantóir

| 23 www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE NO. 3 OPERATIONS WING – A YEAR IN REVIEW BY CAPT NEIL DUNNE I n the dynamic landscape of No. 3 Operations Wing, 2023 has been a year marked by remarkable achievements and significant contributions to various critical operations. From life-saving initiatives to international collaborations, the unit has consistently demonstrated its commitment to excellence. AED TASKING Early in the year, 301 Squadron undertook a pivotal task – installing two eco-powered cabinets on Croagh Patrick to support life-saving equipment. Designed by Mayo native and qualified EMT Engineer, Darren Forde, these solar-powered cabinets not only house defibrillators but also provide temperature- controlled storage for life-saving medications. Registered with HSE Ambulance Control, these cabinets have the potential to make a life-saving difference in remote locations, and No. 3 Ops Wing takes pride in playing a role in their installation. POTUS VISIT TO IRELAND In April, No. 3 Operations Wing played a pivotal role in welcoming two Sea Kings from the United States Marine Corps' HMX-1 Presidential Airlift Squadron and six Chinooks from the US Army Black Knights to Baldonnel during the visit of the President of the United States to Ireland. Arriving via Air Force C-17 strategic airlift aircraft, the Sea Kings were meticulously reassembled in the hangar, while the Chinooks, overcoming technical challenges, flew in from Cardiff. The Sea Kings served as the transport for POTUS during his visit, while the Chinooks were instrumental in transporting associated security teams. The collaborative efforts between No. 3 Operations Wing and their American visitors included various tasks, from aircrew and tech crew operating as marshals to guide the Chinooks, liaison officers addressing miscellaneous issues, to technicians preparing a dedicated space for the Sea Kings in the squadron's hangar. A camaraderie-building photo session, words of appreciation, and presentations in the officers' mess, followed by a shared celebration at the 51 Bar, underscored the successful cooperation during this high-profile visit. 57TH HELICOPTER CONVERSION COURSE The culmination of the 57th Helicopter Conversion Course marked a significant milestone for No. 3 Operations Wing. Five students completed their comprehensive training in August, encompassing 89 flights across diverse disciplines such as basic and advanced handling, instrument flying, mountain flying, and navigation flying. The Airbus EC135 served as the training aircraft, providing a robust platform for honing their skills. Having graduated from the course, these students are now operational, actively contributing to various tasks within the unit. The successful completion of this course not only enhances the capabilities of the unit but also reflects the commitment to maintaining a highly skilled and proficient aircrew. As these graduates take on responsibilities, 302 Squadron continues to operate alongside 301 and 304 Squadron in carrying out any taskings received. EXTERNAL FLYING TRAINING Four of 302 Squadron's newest members embarked on a transformative journey to RAF Shawbury for Rotary Wing Flying Training. Station Commander Group Captain Andy Barron welcomed them to the tri- service establishment, emphasizing the unique collaboration of the British Navy, Airforce, and Army. As they progress through their course consisting of ground school, basic and advanced flying training, these aviators will return as fully qualified helicopter pilots ready to begin their operational career as pilots in No. 3 Operations Wing. PREPARATIONS FOR HELI60 With a rich history spanning 60 years, No. 3 Operations Wing continues to pioneer in military and civil aviation. From being the first Air Ambulance and SAR mission operator to introducing NVIS and helicopter ICU, the unit's legacy is etched in milestones. Recognised with 21unit personnel receiving DSMs, the unit remains at the forefront of aviation advancements. The unit celebrated this occasion on November 24th of this year. MARITIME OPERATION In collaboration with the Gardaí, the Naval Service, and the Army Ranger Wing, No. 3 Operations Wing played a crucial role in detaining the non-compliant Panamanian registered cargo vessel, MV MATTHEW, suspected of drug trafficking off the Cork coast, using it's AW139 platform. This operation, involving aerial boarding and the seizing of the vessel, exemplifies the unit's commitment to national security and anti- smuggling efforts. AIRSHOWS No. 3 Operations Wing graced multiple airshows, showcasing their EC135 and AW139 aircraft both within and outside Ireland. Participating in various locations like Birr, Rush, Bray, RAF Cosford, and RIAT, the unit not only demonstrated their capabilities but also engaged with diverse audiences. Notable appearances, such as landing at Farmleigh for the Defence Forces Open Day, added to the unit's public relations efforts. TRAINING ACHIEVEMENTS The completion of the Aircrew Instructor Course and the Tech Fliers Course stands as a testament to the unit's dedication to skill enhancement. These accomplishments not only elevate the expertise of the existing team but also bolster the unit's capacity to train future aircrew. FIREFIGHTING OPERATIONS Responding to a call for assistance, AW139 crews collaborated with the Northern Ireland Fire Service and the Civil Air Patrol in tackling fires in Antrim. Over the 15th and 16th June, the unit's pilots and aircrew demonstrated their versatility, operating out of Aldergrove and actively contributing to firefighting efforts. OPERATIONAL STATISTICS As of November 2023, No. 3 Operations Wing demonstrates impressive operational statistics, including 926 Garda Air Support Unit (GASU) flights, 221 Emergency Aeromedical Support (EAS) Service flights, 5 Neo Natal Air Ambulance flights, 3 Ministerial Air Transport flights, and 51 Joint Operations. These figures underscore the unit's unwavering commitment to its diverse range of missions. In reflection, 2023 has so far been a year of triumphs for No. 3 Operations Wing, where innovation, collaboration, and excellence have been the hallmarks of their operations. As they look ahead, the unit remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the highest standards of service and continue its legacy of pioneering achievements in the field of helicopter aviation. Recent Air Corps Fire Fighting course No1 Operations being tasked with transporting a 3-month-old baby boy to Rotterdam to receive specialist medical treatment

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