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51 Years of Action with the RN and RAF: A Comprehensive Overview

Roald Dahl

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Published in Commando Helicopter Aircrewman: 51 Years In Action With The RN And RAF

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The Royal Navy (RN) and Royal Air Force (RAF) have a long and distinguished history of service to Britain, dating back centuries. In the past 51 years alone, these two branches of the British Armed Forces have played a vital role in defending the nation and supporting its international commitments.

Commando Helicopter Aircrewman: 51 Years in Action with the RN and RAF

by Jean Edward Smith

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This article provides a comprehensive overview of the RN and RAF's activities over the past half-century, from major operations to humanitarian missions. It will highlight the significant contributions made by these two services to Britain's defense and international standing.

Major Operations

The RN and RAF have been involved in numerous major operations over the past 51 years, including:

The Falklands War (1982): The RN and RAF played a key role in the liberation of the Falkland Islands from Argentine occupation. The Task Force sent to the South Atlantic included over 100 ships and 40,000 personnel, and the RAF provided air support and reconnaissance.
The Gulf War (1990-1991): The RN and RAF were part of the international coalition that expelled Iraqi forces from Kuwait. The RN provided naval support and protection for coalition shipping, while the RAF conducted bombing raids and provided air defense.
The Kosovo War (1999): The RN and RAF were involved in the NATO bombing campaign against Serbia that led to the withdrawal of Serbian forces from Kosovo.
The War in Afghanistan (2001-2014): The RN and RAF provided support to the international coalition in Afghanistan, including air strikes, ground support, and logistical assistance.
The War in Iraq (2003-2011): The RN and RAF were part of the US-led coalition that invaded Iraq in 2003. The RN provided naval support and protection for coalition shipping, while the RAF conducted bombing raids and provided air defense.

Humanitarian Missions

In addition to their combat roles, the RN and RAF have also been involved in a number of humanitarian missions over the past 51 years, including:

The Bangladesh Liberation War (1971): The RN provided logistical support to the Indian Navy during the Bangladesh Liberation War.
The Mozambique Flood Relief (2000): The RAF provided airlift support to the Mozambique government in the aftermath of devastating floods.
The Haiti Earthquake Relief (2010): The RN and RAF provided humanitarian assistance to Haiti following the devastating earthquake.
The Typhoon Haiyan Relief (2013): The RN and RAF provided humanitarian assistance to the Philippines following Typhoon Haiyan.
The Ebola Virus Disease Outbreak (2014-2016): The RN and RAF provided logistical support to the international effort to combat the Ebola virus disease outbreak in West Africa.

Significant Contributions

The RN and RAF have made significant contributions to Britain's defense and international standing over the past 51 years. These contributions include:

Maintaining a continuous presence at sea and in the air, providing a deterrent to potential aggressors.
Providing a rapid response to emergencies and humanitarian crises around the world.
Supporting British diplomatic efforts and promoting British interests abroad.
Developing and maintaining cutting-edge military technology and equipment.
Training and developing highly skilled personnel.

The RN and RAF have a long and distinguished history of service to Britain. Over the past 51 years, these two branches of the British Armed Forces have played a vital role in defending the nation and supporting its international commitments. Their significant contributions to Britain's defense and international standing are a source of pride for all Britons.