Examine individual changes

'@@ -1,3 +1,3 @@ -<br />{{Redirect|BEX|the airline that operated under that code|Business Express Airlines|other uses|Bex (disambiguation)}} +{{Redirect|BEX|the airline that operated under that code|Business Express Airlines|other uses|Bex (disambiguation)}} {{use British English|date=August 2017}} {{use DMY dates|date=August 2017}} @@ -60,51 +60,51 @@ |footnotes='''Source''': RAF Benson Defence Aerodrome Manual<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-benson/documents/raf-benson-defence-aerodrome-manual/|title=RAF Benson Defence Aerodrome Manual|last=|first=|date=19 November 2018|website=Royal Air Force|publisher=[[Military Aviation Authority]]|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=27 February 2019}}</ref> }} -'''Royal Air Force Benson''' or '''RAF Benson''' {{Airport codes|BEX|EGUB}} is a [[Royal Air Force station]] near [[Benson, Oxfordshire|Benson]] in [[South Oxfordshire]], [[England]]. It is home to the [[Royal Air Force]]'s fleet of [[Aérospatiale Puma|Puma HC2]] support helicopters, comprising [[No. 33 Squadron RAF|No. 33 Squadron]] and [[No. 230 Squadron RAF|No. 230 Squadron]]. Other flying units comprise [[No. 28 Squadron RAF|No. 28 Squadron]] which is the combined Puma and [[Boeing Chinook (UK variants)|Boeing Chinook HC4]] operational conversion unit, [[Oxford University Air Squadron]] and [[No. 6 Air Experience Flight RAF|No. 6 Air Experience Flight]]. +'''Royal Air Force Benson''' or '''RAF Benson''' {{Airport codes|BEX|EGUB}} is a [[Royal Air Force]] (RAF) station located at [[Benson, Oxfordshire|Benson]], near [[Wallingford, Oxfordshire|Wallingford]], in [[South Oxfordshire]], [[England]]. It is a Main Operating Base of the RAF and home to it's fleet of [[Aérospatiale Puma|Westland Puma HC2]] support helicopters, comprising [[No. 33 Squadron RAF|No. 33 Squadron]] and [[No. 230 Squadron RAF|No. 230 Squadron]]. Other flying units comprise [[No. 28 Squadron RAF|No. 28 Squadron]] which is the combined Puma and [[Boeing Chinook (UK variants)|Boeing Chinook HC4]] operational conversion unit, [[Oxford University Air Squadron]] and [[No. 6 Air Experience Flight RAF|No. 6 Air Experience Flight]]. -RAF Benson opened in 1939 and during the war operated as a training station and later in the [[Imagery intelligence|photographic reconnaissance]] role. Post-war, Benson operated under [[RAF Transport Command]] throughout the 1950s and 1960s. During the 1970s various signals units arrived and in the early 1990s the station began its current support helicopter role. +RAF Benson opened in 1939 and during the war operated as a training station and later in the [[Imagery intelligence|photographic reconnaissance]] role. Post-war, Benson operated under [[RAF Transport Command]] throughout the 1950s and 1960s. During the 1970s various signals and administrative units were present and in the early 1990s the station began its current support helicopter role. The RAF [[AgustaWestland AW101|Agusta Westland AW101 Merlin]] fleet was based at Benson between 2001 and 2016, after which it transferred to the [[Royal Navy]] to become part of the [[Commando Helicopter Force]] at [[RNAS Yeovilton (HMS Heron)|RNAS Yeovilton]]. Other notable units which have been located at Benson include the [[Air transport of the Royal Family and government of the United Kingdom|Queen's Flight]] (originally the King's Flight when established in 1946). -The [[National Police Air Service]] and the [[Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance]] are present on the station, both operating the [[Eurocopter EC135]]. +The [[National Police Air Service]] and the [[Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance]] are based at the station, both operating the [[Eurocopter EC135]] helicopter. ==History== === Early years and the Second World War === [[File:Fairey Battle - Benson - Royal Air Force 1939-1945- Bomber Command CH772.jpg|alt=Fairey Battles of No 1.2 Operational Training Unit (OTU) based at RAF Benson during July 1940.|left|thumb|[[Fairey Battle|Fairey Battles]] of No 1.2 Operational Training Unit (OTU) based at RAF Benson during July 1940.]] -Construction of RAF Benson began in 1937 as part of the 1930s RAF expansion programme and in response to the threat of war from [[Nazi Germany]]. Construction was undertaken by contractors [[John Laing Group|John Laing & Son]].{{sfn|Ritchie|1997|p=91}} Benson was officially opened as an RAF station under No. 6 Group in April 1939 under the command of [[Group captain|Group Captain]] R T Leather [[Air Force Cross (United Kingdom)|AFC]].<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/prewar.cfm|title=History - Pre-War|last=|first=|date=|website=RAF Benson|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170815101402/https://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/prewar.cfm|archive-date=15 August 2017|dead-url=|access-date=6 March 2019}}</ref>{{Sfn|Marriot|1997|p=128}} +Construction of RAF Benson began in 1937 as part of the 1930s RAF expansion programme in response to the threat of war from [[Nazi Germany]]. Construction was undertaken by contractors [[John Laing Group|John Laing & Son]].{{sfn|Ritchie|1997|p=91}} Benson was officially opened as an RAF station under No. 6 Group in April 1939, under the command of [[Group captain|Group Captain]] R T Leather [[Air Force Cross (United Kingdom)|AFC]].<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/prewar.cfm|title=History - Pre-War|last=|first=|date=|website=RAF Benson|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170815101402/https://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/prewar.cfm|archive-date=15 August 2017|dead-url=|access-date=6 March 2019}}</ref>{{Sfn|Marriot|1997|p=128}} -The station's first aircraft were two squadrons of [[Fairey Battle]] [[light bomber]]s, which began to arrive a few days later. [[No. 103 Squadron RAF|No. 103 Squadron]] arrived from [[MoD Boscombe Down|RAF Boscombe Down]] and started flying in on 3 April 1939, to be joined in the next few months by [[No. 150 Squadron RAF|No. 150 Squadron]] which arrived from [[RAF Abingdon]].<ref name=":2" /> Once the Second World War started both No. 103 and No. 150 Squadrons moved to France as part of the [[RAF Advanced Air Striking Force|Advanced Air Striking Force]].{{Sfn|Marriot|1997|p=128}} 1939 also saw the establishment of [[List of Royal Air Force Operational Training Units|No. 12 Operational Training Unit]] (No. 12 OTU), tasked with training pilots, observers and air gunners on the Fairey Battle and [[Avro Anson]].<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|url=http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/wartime.cfm|title=War Time|last=|first=|date=|website=RAF Benson|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222174128/http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/wartime.cfm|archive-date=22 February 2014|dead-url=|access-date=25 February 2019}}</ref> +The station's first aircraft were two squadrons of [[Fairey Battle]] [[light bomber]]s. [[No. 103 Squadron RAF|No. 103 Squadron]] arrived from [[MoD Boscombe Down|RAF Boscombe Down]] in [[Wiltshire]] and started flying in on 3 April 1939, to be joined in the next few months by [[No. 150 Squadron RAF|No. 150 Squadron]] which arrived from [[RAF Abingdon]], also located in Oxfordshire.<ref name=":2" /> Once the Second World War started, both No. 103 and No. 150 Squadrons moved to France as part of the [[RAF Advanced Air Striking Force|Advanced Air Striking Force]].{{Sfn|Marriot|1997|p=128}} 1939 also saw the establishment of [[List of Royal Air Force Operational Training Units|No. 12 Operational Training Unit]] (No. 12 OTU), tasked with training pilots, observers and air gunners on the Fairey Battle and [[Avro Anson]].<ref name=":22">{{Cite web|url=http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/wartime.cfm|title=War Time|last=|first=|date=|website=RAF Benson|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222174128/http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/wartime.cfm|archive-date=22 February 2014|dead-url=|access-date=25 February 2019}}</ref> In the early hours of 2 August 1940, a Fairey Battle took off from Benson for a cross-country training exercise but crashed into a nearby hill. The crew included [[Richard Ormonde Shuttleworth]], founder of the [[Shuttleworth Collection]] in Bedfordshire, who was killed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.shuttleworth.org/richardshuttleworth/|title=Richard Ormonde Shuttleworth|work=[[Shuttleworth Collection]]|publisher=The Shuttleworth Trust|accessdate=10 July 2016}}</ref> On the evening of 29 November 1940, Fairey Battle I ''L5071'' took off from Benson for a training flight. It reached an altitude of around {{convert|1000|ft}} but then dived and crashed about {{convert|1|mi}} north-west of the airfield. The Battle was crewed by three members of the [[Polish Air Forces in France and Great Britain|Polish Air Force]], all of whom were killed. They are buried in [[Benson, Oxfordshire#Parish church|St Helen's parish churchyard]] in the village of Benson.<ref name="AR">{{cite web|url=http://aircrewremembered.com/makarewicz-wladyslaw.html|title=29.11.1940. No. 12 O.T.U. Fairey Battle I L5071 P/O. Makarewicz|work=Archive Report: Allied Forces|publisher=Aircrew Remembered|accessdate=14 November 2015}}</ref> -Benson's long association with Royalty began in September 1940 when the [[Air transport of the British royal family and government|King's Flight]] relocated to the station.{{Sfn|Marriot|1997|p=128}} However, this initial association was short-lived, as the flight was disbanded in 1942 so it could form the core of [[No. 161 Squadron RAF|No. 161 Squadron]] at [[RAF Newmarket]] in [[Suffolk]], to which responsibility for the transportation of Royalty was transferred. The Battles and Ansons of No. 12 OTU were replaced in December 1940 with [[Vickers Wellington]] [[medium bomber]]s.<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":22" /> +Benson's long association with Royalty began in September 1940, when the [[Air transport of the British royal family and government|King's Flight]] relocated to the station.{{Sfn|Marriot|1997|p=128}} However, this initial association was short-lived, as the flight was disbanded in 1942 so it could form the core of [[No. 161 Squadron RAF|No. 161 Squadron]] at [[RAF Newmarket]] in [[Suffolk]], to which responsibility for the transportation of Royalty was transferred. The Battles and Ansons of No. 12 OTU were replaced in December 1940 with [[Vickers Wellington]] [[medium bomber]]s.<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":22" /> [[File:Royal Air Force- Operations by the Photographic Reconnaissance Units, 1939-1945. CH10847.jpg|alt=A Type F.8 Mark II (20-inch lens) aerial camera being loaded into a Supermarine Spitfire PR Mk IV at RAF Benson during the Second World War.|left|thumb|A Type F.8 Mark II (20-inch lens) aerial camera being loaded into a [[Supermarine Spitfire (late Merlin-powered variants)|Supermarine Spitfire PR Mk IV]] at RAF Benson during the [[World War II|Second World War]].]] -Benson was selected in 1941 as the home station of [[No. 1 Photographic Reconnaissance Unit RAF|No. 1 Photographic Reconnaissance Unit]] (No. 1 PRU), an experimental unit tasked with evaluating and developing new methods of obtaining [[Imagery intelligence|photographic intelligence]] over enemy territory, led by poioneer in the field [[Squadron leader|Squadron Leader]] [[Sidney Cotton]].<ref name=":22" /> Utilising [[Supermarine Spitfire]]s, the unit found that their [[Military camouflage|camouflage]] and altitude allowed them remain virtually invisible to enemy defences and avoid interception. Additional fuel tanks on the Spitfires allowed missions to take place deep into enemy territory.<ref name=":22" /> Analysis of imagery was undertaken by the intelligence unit at nearby Ewelme Manor, a short distance from the station.{{Sfn|Marriot|1997|p=128}} The unit was the first to discover the [[Kriegsmarine|Germany Navy]] battleship ''[[German battleship Bismarck|Bismarck]]'', near Bergen in May 1941. As a result of its work, the station gained considerable fame as the home of photographic reconnaissance for the remainder of the war.<ref name=":22" /><ref>{{harvnb|Leaf|1997|p=}}{{page needed|date=November 2015}}</ref> +Benson was selected in 1941 as the home station of [[No. 1 Photographic Reconnaissance Unit RAF|No. 1 Photographic Reconnaissance Unit]] (No. 1 PRU), an experimental unit tasked with evaluating and developing new methods of obtaining [[Imagery intelligence|photographic intelligence]] over enemy territory, led by pioneer in the field [[Squadron leader|Squadron Leader]] [[Sidney Cotton]].<ref name=":22" /> Utilising [[Supermarine Spitfire]]s, the unit found that their [[Military camouflage|camouflage]] and operating altitude allowed them remain virtually invisible to enemy defences and avoid interception. Additional fuel tanks on the Spitfires allowed missions to take place deep into enemy territory.<ref name=":22" /> Analysis of imagery was undertaken by the intelligence unit at nearby Ewelme Manor, a short distance from the station.{{Sfn|Marriot|1997|p=128}} The unit was the first to discover the [[Kriegsmarine|Germany Navy]] battleship ''[[German battleship Bismarck|Bismarck]]'', near Bergen in May 1941. As a result of its work, the station gained considerable fame as the home of photographic reconnaissance for the remainder of the war.<ref name=":22" /><ref>{{harvnb|Leaf|1997|p=}}{{page needed|date=November 2015}}</ref> -New paved runways were built in 1942.{{Sfn|Marriot|1997|p=128}} The new runway required the permanent closure of the Old London Road in Benson. As a result, the [[Royal Engineers]] built the present road (part of the [[A4074 road|A4074]]) between Benson and Crowmarsh.<ref name=":22" /> +New paved runways were built in 1942.{{Sfn|Marriot|1997|p=128}} The new runway required the permanent closure of the Old London Road in Benson. As a result, the [[Royal Engineers]] built the present road (part of the [[A4074 road|A4074]]) between Benson and [[Crowmarsh]].<ref name=":22" /> -In June 1943, No. 1 PRU was formed into No. 106 Wing, with five squadrons ([[No. 540 Squadron RAF|No. 540]], [[No. 541 Squadron RAF|No. 541]], [[No. 542 Squadron RAF|No. 542]], [[No. 543 Squadron RAF|No. 543]] and [[No. 544 Squadron RAF|No. 544 Squadrons]]).<ref name=":22" /> The Wing was elevated to the status of [[List of Royal Air Force groups|No. 106 (Photo Reconnaissance) Group]] in April 1944, with two [[de Havilland Mosquito]] and two [[Supermarine Spitfire]] squadrons (No. 543 Squadron having been disbanded when the aircraft strength per squadron was increased). The group was assigned to Coastal Command's photo reconnaissance assets with the whole of Northern Europe as its operational area.<ref>[http://www.rafweb.org/Maps/Coastal1945.htm Coastal Command Group Dispositions - July 1945]</ref> Spitfire and Mosquito aircraft flew missions over occupied Europe, including the provision of battle damage assessment images after [[Operation Chastise]], the attack on German dams by [[No. 617 Squadron RAF|No. 617 Squadron]] in May 1943. +In June 1943, No. 1 PRU was formed into No. 106 Wing, with five units ([[No. 540 Squadron RAF|No. 540]], [[No. 541 Squadron RAF|No. 541]], [[No. 542 Squadron RAF|No. 542]], [[No. 543 Squadron RAF|No. 543]] and [[No. 544 Squadron RAF|No. 544 Squadrons]]).<ref name=":22" /> The Wing was elevated to the status of [[List of Royal Air Force groups|No. 106 (Photo Reconnaissance) Group]] in April 1944, with two [[de Havilland Mosquito]] and two [[Supermarine Spitfire]] squadrons (No. 543 Squadron having been disbanded when the aircraft strength per squadron was increased). The group was assigned to [[RAF Coastal Command|Coastal Command's]] photo reconnaissance assets, with the whole of Northern Europe as its operational area.<ref>[http://www.rafweb.org/Maps/Coastal1945.htm Coastal Command Group Dispositions - July 1945]</ref> Spitfire and Mosquito aircraft flew missions over occupied Europe, including the provision of battle damage assessment images after [[Operation Chastise]], the attack on German dams by [[No. 617 Squadron RAF|No. 617 Squadron]] in May 1943. -[[Vera Lynn]], 'the forces Sweetheart', visited RAF Benson to entertain the troops, reportedly singing ''"[[(There'll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs of Dover|The White Cliffs of Dover]]"'' at the station.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/ww2peopleswar/stories/45/a4416545.shtml|title=BBC - WW2 People's War - Corporal Lena of RAF Benson 423254|website=www.bbc.co.uk|access-date=2018-08-02}}</ref>. +During the war [[Vera Lynn]], known as the 'the forces Sweetheart', visited Benson to entertain the troops, reportedly singing ''"[[(There'll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs of Dover|The White Cliffs of Dover]]"'' at the station.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/ww2peopleswar/stories/45/a4416545.shtml|title=BBC - WW2 People's War - Corporal Lena of RAF Benson 423254|website=www.bbc.co.uk|access-date=2018-08-02}}</ref>. === Post-war === -After the end of the Second World War in 1945, Benson retained a photographic reconnaissance role into the early 1950s, with [[Avro Lancaster]], Spitfire, Mosquito, [[Gloster Meteor|Gloster Meteor PR.Mk 10]] and [[English Electric Canberra|English Electric Canberra PR.3]] aircraft operating in the role. During this time the headquarters of No. 54 Group of flying [[RAF Training Command|Training Command]] was a lodger unit at Benson. The King's Flight reformed in 1946. +After the end of the Second World War in 1945, Benson retained a photographic reconnaissance role into the early 1950s, with [[Avro Lancaster]], Spitfire, Mosquito, [[Gloster Meteor|Gloster Meteor PR.Mk 10]] and [[English Electric Canberra|English Electric Canberra PR.3]] aircraft operating in the role. During this time the headquarters of No. 54 Group of flying [[RAF Training Command|Training Command]] was a lodger unit at Benson. The King's Flight reformed in 1946. ==== Transport Command ==== [[File:XN856 AW Argosy C1 RAF LPL 19MAY63 (6934549451).jpg|alt=A RAF Armstrong Whitworth Argosy C.1 of the type based at RAF Benson during the 1960s.|left|thumb|A RAF [[Armstrong Whitworth AW.660 Argosy|Armstrong Whitworth Argosy C.1]] of the type based at RAF Benson during the 1960s.]] -In 1953, Benson came under the control of [[RAF Transport Command|Transport Command]]. [[No. 147 Squadron RAF|No. 147 Squadron]] and [[No. 167 Squadron RAF|No. 167 Squadron]] formed what was known as The Ferry Wing, which was responsible for the ferrying of aircraft across the globe. It was disbanded in 1960 when squadrons became responsible for the collection and ferrying of their own aircraft.{{Sfn|Marriott|1997|p=128}}<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|url=http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/postwar.cfm|title=Post-war|last=|first=|date=|website=RAF Benson|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222173735/http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/postwar.cfm|archive-date=7 December 2011|dead-url=|access-date=7 March 2019}}</ref> +In 1953, Benson came under the control of [[RAF Transport Command|Transport Command]]. [[No. 147 Squadron RAF|No. 147 Squadron]] and [[No. 167 Squadron RAF|No. 167 Squadron]] formed what was known as The Ferry Wing, which was responsible for the ferrying of aircraft across the globe. It was disbanded in 1960 when RAF squadrons became responsible for the collection and ferrying of their own aircraft.{{Sfn|Marriott|1997|p=128}}<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|url=http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/postwar.cfm|title=Post-war|last=|first=|date=|website=RAF Benson|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222173735/http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/postwar.cfm|archive-date=7 December 2011|dead-url=|access-date=7 March 2019}}</ref> -Thereafter, Benson became the focus of the RAF's medium-range [[Airlift#Tactical airlift|tactical transport]] fleet, operating the [[Armstrong Whitworth AW.660 Argosy|Armstrong Whitworth Argosy C.1]].The first of six Argosys arrived on 20th November 1961 to form the Argosy Operational Conversion Unit (OCU). This OCU later moved to [[RAF Thorney Island]] in [[Hampshire]]. In February 1962, [[No. 105 Squadron RAF|No. 105 Squadron]] formed to establish the first front-line Argosy unit. It was soon followed by [[No. 215 Squadron RAF|No. 215 squadron]]. By the end of 1963 both units had departed for the Middle East and Far East respectively. Two further Argosy units were established, [[No. 114 Squadron RAF|No. 114 Squadron]] and [[No. 267 Squadron RAF|No. 267 Squadron]], both operating from Benson until the early 1970s.<ref name=":4" /> +Thereafter, Benson became the focus of the RAF's medium-range [[Airlift#Tactical airlift|tactical transport]] fleet, operating the [[Armstrong Whitworth AW.660 Argosy|Armstrong Whitworth Argosy C.1]].The first of six Argosys arrived on 20 November 1961 to form the Argosy Operational Conversion Unit (OCU). The OCU later moved to [[RAF Thorney Island]] in [[Hampshire]]. In February 1962, [[No. 105 Squadron RAF|No. 105 Squadron]] formed to establish the first front-line Argosy unit. It was soon followed by [[No. 215 Squadron RAF|No. 215 squadron]]. By the end of 1963 both units had departed for the [[Middle East]] and [[Far East]] respectively. Two further Argosy units were established, [[No. 114 Squadron RAF|No. 114 Squadron]] and [[No. 267 Squadron RAF|No. 267 Squadron]], both operating from Benson until the early 1970s.<ref name=":4" /> ==== Support role ==== -With the departure of the Argosy's, the only flying unit which remained at Benson was the Queen's Flight. This remained the case throughout the 1970s and early 1980s. Notwithstanding, the station remained busy with several administrative and support units taking up residence. This included the headquarters of [[No. 38 Group RAF|No. 38 Group]] (part of RAF Support Command) which relocated from RAF Odiham in Hampshire and the [[No. 90 Signals Unit RAF|Tactical Communications Wing]] (TCW), both of which arrived in 1972. They remained until 1976 when No. 38 Group was subsumed into RAF [[RAF Strike Command|Strike Command]] and relocated to [[RAF Upavon]] in Wiltshire, whereas the TCW moved to nearby [[RAF Brize Norton]]. They were replaced by the RAF Support Command Signals Headquarters (SCSHQ) and the Radio Introduction Unit which arrived from [[RAF Medmenham]] in Hampshire during 1977. SCSHQ remained at Benson until 1981.<ref name=":4" /> +With the departure of the Argosy's, the only flying unit which remained at Benson was the Queen's Flight. This remained the case throughout the 1970s and early 1980s. Notwithstanding, the station remained busy with several administrative and support units taking up residence. This included the headquarters of [[No. 38 Group RAF|No. 38 Group]] (part of [[RAF Support Command|Support Command]]) which relocated from [[RAF Odiham]] in [[Hampshire]] and the [[No. 90 Signals Unit RAF|Tactical Communications Wing]] (TCW), both of which arrived in 1972. They remained until 1976 when No. 38 Group was subsumed into RAF [[RAF Strike Command|Strike Command]] and relocated to [[RAF Upavon]] in Wiltshire, whereas the TCW moved to nearby [[RAF Brize Norton]]. They were replaced by the RAF Support Command Signals Headquarters (SCSHQ) and the Radio Introduction Unit which arrived from [[RAF Medmenham]] in Hampshire during 1977. SCSHQ remained at Benson until 1981.<ref name=":4" /> [[File:Andover E3A (18984094824).jpg|alt=An Hawker Siddeley Andover E.3A of No. 115 Squadron which was based at RAF Benson during the 1980 and 90s.|thumb|A [[Hawker Siddeley Andover|Hawker Siddeley Andover E.3A]] of [[No. 115 Squadron RAF|No. 115 Squadron]] which was based at RAF Benson during the 1980 and 90s.]] -Flying activity increased in January 1983 when the [[Hawker Siddeley Andover]] moved to Benson from RAF Brize Norton. Operated by [[No. 115 Squadron RAF|No. 115 Squadron]] and supported by the Andover Training Flight, the Andover Serving Flight and the Support Command Flight Checking Unit, the Andovers were used in the radio and navigation aid calibration role.<ref name=":4" /> +Flying activity increased in January 1983 when the [[Hawker Siddeley Andover]] arrived at Benson from RAF Brize Norton. Operated by [[No. 115 Squadron RAF|No. 115 Squadron]] and supported by the Andover Training Flight, the Andover Serving Flight and the Support Command Flight Checking Unit, the Andovers were used in the radio and navigation aid calibration role.<ref name=":4" /> The Support Command Flight Checking Unit disbanded at in early 1987, with its role transferred to No. 115 Squadron.<ref name=":4" /> -The Queen's Flight received its first [[British Aerospace 146|BAe 146]] in May 1986, with a second in July 1986 and a final aircraft in late 1990. The Support Command Flight Checking Unit disbanded at in early 1987, with its role transferred to No. 115 Squadron.<ref name=":4" /> +The Queen's Flight received its first [[British Aerospace 146|BAe 146]] in May 1986, with a second in July 1986 and a final aircraft in late 1990. ==== Support helicopters ==== Benson's current support helicopter role began in 1992, when [[No. 60 Squadron RAF|No. 60 Squadron]] reformed at the station, flying the [[Westland Wessex|Westland Wessex HC2]].<ref name=":4" /> -In July of that year, the closure of nearby [[RAF Abingdon]], resulted in several new units moving to Benson, namely the [[University of London Air Squadron]] and [[Oxford University Air Squadron]] both flying the [[Scottish Aviation Bulldog|Scottish Aviation Bulldog T1]] and [[No. 6 Air Experience Flight RAF|No. 6 Air Experience Flight]] with the [[De Havilland Canada DHC-1 Chipmunk|De Havilland Chipmunk T1]].<ref>{{Cite book|title=Brace by Wire to Fly-By-Wire – 80 Years of the Royal Air Force 1918–1998|last=March|first=Peter R.|publisher=Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund Enterprises|year=1998|isbn=1-899808-06-X|location=RAF Fairford|pages=158}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|title=The Royal Air Force – A Pocket Guide (1994/95)|last=Heyman|first=Charles|publisher=Leo Cooper|year=1994|isbn=0-85052-4 16-4|location=London|pages=109}}</ref> The Mobile Catering Support Unit (MCSU), featuring a training facility and three Air Combat Support Units, returned in November 1992.<ref name=":4" /> +In July of that year, the closure of nearby [[RAF Abingdon]], resulted in several new units moving to Benson, namely the [[University of London Air Squadron]] and [[Oxford University Air Squadron]] both flying the [[Scottish Aviation Bulldog|Scottish Aviation Bulldog T1]] and [[No. 6 Air Experience Flight RAF|No. 6 Air Experience Flight]] with the [[De Havilland Canada DHC-1 Chipmunk|De Havilland Chipmunk T1]].<ref>{{Cite book|title=Brace by Wire to Fly-By-Wire – 80 Years of the Royal Air Force 1918–1998|last=March|first=Peter R.|publisher=Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund Enterprises|year=1998|isbn=1-899808-06-X|location=RAF Fairford|pages=158}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|title=The Royal Air Force – A Pocket Guide (1994/95)|last=Heyman|first=Charles|publisher=Leo Cooper|year=1994|isbn=0-85052-4 16-4|location=London|pages=109}}</ref> The Mobile Catering Support Unit (MCSU), featuring a training facility and three Air Combat Support Units, arrived in November 1992.<ref name=":4" /> [[File:Westland Wessex HCC4 (WS-58), UK - Air Force AN0928209.jpg|alt=A Westland Wessex HCC.4 of the Queens Flight seen in July 1993.|left|thumb|A [[Westland Wessex|Westland Wessex HCC.4]] of the [[No. 32 Squadron RAF|Queen's Flight]] seen in July 1993.]] The headquarters of the Support Helicopter Force relocated to Benson from [[RAF Gütersloh]] in 1993, after the German station's closure that year. The headquarters of [[No. 1 Group RAF|No. 1 Group]] was located at Benson between 1993 and 1996.{{Sfn|Marriott|1997|p=130}} @@ -112,20 +112,20 @@ On 1 April 1995, the Queen's Flight, then equipped with the [[BAe 146|BAe 146 CC2]] and [[Westland Wessex|Wessex HCC.4]], merged with [[No. 32 Squadron RAF|No. 32 Squadron]] and moved to [[RAF Northolt]] in London to become No. 32 (The Royal) Squadron, bringing Benson's long association with VIP transport to an end.<ref name="Livery">{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/3628589.stm|title=Royal planes may lose Union Jack|last=|first=|date=15 April 2004|newspaper=BBC News|accessdate=12 March 2019}}</ref> -June 1997 saw the [[Aérospatiale SA 330 Puma|Westland Puma HC1]] introduced at Benson, when [[No. 33 Squadron RAF|No. 33 Squadron]] arrived from [[RAF Odiham]] in Hampshire. The Puma Operational Conversion Flight, previously part of No. 27 Squadron at Odiham and tasked with training crews on flying the helicopter, moved in during February 1998.<ref name=":4" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222164116/http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/33history.cfm|title=33 Squadron History|last=|first=|date=|website=RAF Benson|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222164116/http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/33history.cfm|archive-date=22 February 2014|dead-url=|access-date=12 March 2019}}</ref> +June 1997 saw the [[Aérospatiale SA 330 Puma|Westland Puma HC1]] introduced at Benson, when [[No. 33 Squadron RAF|No. 33 Squadron]] arrived from RAF Odiham. The Puma Operational Conversion Flight, previously part of [[No. 27 Squadron RAF|No. 27 Squadron]] at Odiham and tasked with training crews on flying the helicopter, moved in during February 1998.<ref name=":4" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222164116/http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/33history.cfm|title=33 Squadron History|last=|first=|date=|website=RAF Benson|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222164116/http://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/33history.cfm|archive-date=22 February 2014|dead-url=|access-date=12 March 2019}}</ref> === 21st century === -No. 28 Squadron reformed at Benson in July 2001 to equip with the [[AgustaWestland AW101|AgustaWestland Merlin HC3]] support helicopter which had newly entered RAF service.<ref name=":4" /> To accommodate the new aircraft and personnel, £25 million worth of investment was made at Benson, which included refurbishment of the four C-type hangars, upgrading of station services & infrastructure and construction of engineering facilities and 100 homes.{{Sfn|Marriott|1997|p=130}} A further Merlin unit, [[No. 78 Squadron RAF|No. 78 Squadron]], reformed in late 2007 to operate six Merlin HC3A's which had been purchased from the [[Royal Danish Air Force]].<ref name=":4" /> +[[No. 28 Squadron RAF|No. 28 Squadron]] reformed at Benson in July 2001 to equip with the [[AgustaWestland AW101|AgustaWestland Merlin HC3]] support helicopter which had newly entered RAF service.<ref name=":4" /> To accommodate the new aircraft and personnel, £25 million worth of investment was made at Benson, which included refurbishment of the four C-type hangars, upgrading of station services & infrastructure and construction of engineering facilities and 100 homes.{{Sfn|Marriott|1997|p=130}} By July 2003, approximately 1,400 military personnel, 166 [[Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)|Ministry of Defence]] civilians and 150 contractors were employed at Benson.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200506/cmhansrd/vo060605/text/60605w0008.htm|title=Helicopter Searches – House of Commons Hansard Written Answers|last=Ingram|first=Mr|date=5 June 2006|website=parliament.uk|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=13 March 2019}}</ref> A further Merlin unit, [[No. 78 Squadron RAF|No. 78 Squadron]], reformed in late 2007 to operate six Merlin HC3A's which had been purchased from the [[Royal Danish Air Force]].<ref name=":4" /> -Doubt was cast over the future of RAF Benson during a review of [[Joint Helicopter Command|Joint Helicopter Command's]] (JHC) airfields, known as Programme Belvedere. Consideration was given to closing at least one JHC airfield, with Benson's support helicopters potentially relocating to [[RAF Lyneham]]. However, the programme was abandoned in May 2009, when it was decided to largely retain the existing JHC basing arrangements.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2009-05-07/debates/090507108000009/ProgrammeBelvedere?highlight=raf%20lyneham#contribution-090507108000016|title=Programme Belvedere|last=Ainsworth MP|first=Bob|date=7 May 2009|website=UK Parliament – Hansard|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=24 February 2019}}</ref> Notwithstanding, in November of that year, the Puma Force was brought together when [[No. 230 Squadron RAF|No. 230 Squadron]] relocated from [[Joint Helicopter Command Flying Station Aldergrove|JHC Flying Station Aldergrove]] in Northern Ireland, to join No. 33 Squadron at Benson.<ref name=":4" /> +Doubt was cast over the future of RAF Benson during a review of [[Joint Helicopter Command|Joint Helicopter Command's]] (JHC) airfields, known as Programme Belvedere. Consideration was given to closing at least one JHC airfield, with Benson's support helicopters potentially relocating to [[RAF Lyneham]] in Wiltshire. However, the programme was abandoned in May 2009, when it was decided to largely retain the existing JHC basing arrangements.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2009-05-07/debates/090507108000009/ProgrammeBelvedere?highlight=raf%20lyneham#contribution-090507108000016|title=Programme Belvedere|last=Ainsworth MP|first=Bob|date=7 May 2009|website=UK Parliament – Hansard|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=24 February 2019}}</ref> Notwithstanding, in November of that year, the Puma Force was brought together when [[No. 230 Squadron RAF|No. 230 Squadron]] relocating from [[Joint Helicopter Command Flying Station Aldergrove|JHC Flying Station Aldergrove]] in Northern Ireland, to join No. 33 Squadron at Benson.<ref name=":4" /> The [[Strategic Defence and Security Review 2010]] recommended that in order to replace Navy's ageing [[Westland Sea King#Commando and further developments|Westland Sea King HC4's]], the RAF's AgustaWestland Merlin HC3/3A fleet should be transferred to the [[Royal Navy|Royal Navy's]] [[Commando Helicopter Force]]. To gain experience of operating and maintaining the Merlin, Royal Navy aircrew and engineers were integrated into the Merlin Force at Benson during 2012.<ref name=":0" />[[File:RAF Merlin HC3A Helicopter of No28 Sqn MOD 45154033.jpg|alt=A RAF AgustaWestland Merlin HC3A.|thumb|A RAF AgustaWestland Merlin HC3A.|left]]The fleet was officially handed over to the navy during a ceremony at Benson on 30 September 2014. It was attended by Their Royal Highnesses [[Prince Andrew, Duke of York|The Duke of York]], the [[Commodore-in-Chief|Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm]], and [[Prince Michael of Kent]], Honorary Air Marshal of RAF Benson. [[Andrew Pulford|Air Chief Marshal Sir Andrew Pulford]] and [[George Zambellas|1st Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Sir George Zambellas]] were also present.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|url=http://www.forces.net/news/navy/raf-hand-over-merlins-royal-navy|title=RAF Hand Over Merlins to the Royal Navy|last=|first=|date=30 September 2014|work=Forces Network|access-date=14 August 2017|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|language=en}}</ref> The ceremony marked the disbandment of [[No. 78 Squadron RAF|No. 78 Squadron]] and its replacement by [[846 Naval Air Squadron|846 Naval Air Squadron (NAS)]]. -During July 2015 [[845 Naval Air Squadron]] reformed and replaced [[No. 28 Squadron RAF|No. 28 Squadron]] which disbanded. The last phases of the transition began when 846 NAS moved to [[RNAS Yeovilton (HMS Heron)|RNAS Yeovilton]] on 26 March 2015.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2015/march/27/150327-846-home|title=846 NAS comes home to Somerset|last=|first=|date=27 March 2015|website=Royal Navy|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=14 August 2017}}</ref> The final Merlin ([[United Kingdom military aircraft serials|serial number]] ZJ131) along with 845 NAS departed on 16 June 2016, bringing nearly 15 years of Merlin operations at Benson to a close.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://navynews.co.uk/archive/news/item/15025|title=CHF family reunited as Merlins complete their move from Oxfordshire to Yeovilton|last=|first=|date=17 June 2016|website=Navy News|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=14 August 2017}}</ref> +During July 2015, [[845 Naval Air Squadron]] reformed and replaced No. 28 Squadron which disbanded. The last phases of the transition began when 846 NAS moved to [[RNAS Yeovilton (HMS Heron)|RNAS Yeovilton]] in [[Somerset]] on 26 March 2015.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2015/march/27/150327-846-home|title=846 NAS comes home to Somerset|last=|first=|date=27 March 2015|website=Royal Navy|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=14 August 2017}}</ref> The final Merlin ([[United Kingdom military aircraft serials|serial number]] ZJ131) along with 845 NAS departed on 16 June 2016, bringing nearly 15 years of Merlin operations at Benson to a close.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://navynews.co.uk/archive/news/item/15025|title=CHF family reunited as Merlins complete their move from Oxfordshire to Yeovilton|last=|first=|date=17 June 2016|website=Navy News|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=14 August 2017}}</ref> -In May 2015, it was announced that the Chinook Operational Conversion Flight, comprising six Chinooks and 150 personnel would transfer to Benson from RAF Odiham, to form a joint Puma and Chinook Operational Conversion Unit.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/12967809.Six_Chinooks_and_160_staff_transfer_to_RAF_Benson/|title=Six Chinooks and 160 staff transfer to RAF Benson|work=Oxford Mail|accessdate=12 September 2015}}</ref> The move began in December 2015 as the unit joined their Puma counterparts under a reformed No. 28 Squadron.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.farnhamherald.com/article.cfm?id=105081&headline=Chinooks%20leave%20RAF%20Odiham&sectionIs=news&searchyear=2015|title=Chinooks leave RAF Odiham|last=|first=|date=10 December 2015|website=Farnham Herald|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=24 February 2019}}</ref> +In May 2015, it was announced that the Chinook Operational Conversion Flight, comprising six [[Boeing Chinook (UK variants)|Boeing Chinook]]<nowiki/>s and 150 personnel would transfer to Benson from RAF Odiham, to form a joint Puma and Chinook Operational Conversion Unit.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/12967809.Six_Chinooks_and_160_staff_transfer_to_RAF_Benson/|title=Six Chinooks and 160 staff transfer to RAF Benson|work=Oxford Mail|accessdate=12 September 2015}}</ref> The move began in December 2015 as the unit joined their Puma counterparts under a reformed No. 28 Squadron.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.farnhamherald.com/article.cfm?id=105081&headline=Chinooks%20leave%20RAF%20Odiham&sectionIs=news&searchyear=2015|title=Chinooks leave RAF Odiham|last=|first=|date=10 December 2015|website=Farnham Herald|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=24 February 2019}}</ref> During 2016, the [[Joint Helicopter Support Squadron]] moved to Benson from RAF Odiham.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/RAFBenson/posts/10153823960011128?sfnsw=cl|title=RAF Benson|last=|first=|date=30 September 2016|website=Facebook|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=25 February 2019}}</ref> -== Facilities == +== Infrastructure and facilities == [[File:Chinook Flying Simulator at RAF Benson MOD 45146172.jpg|alt=A Boeing Chinook flight simulator at RAF Benson.|thumb|A [[Boeing CH-47 Chinook|Boeing Chinook]] [[Flight simulator|flight simulator]] at RAF Benson.]] The RAF Benson site extends to {{convert|261|ha|acres}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/defence-estates-development-plan-dedp-2009|title=Defence Estates Development Plan 2009 – Annex A|last=|first=|date=3 July 2009|website=GOV.UK|publisher=Ministry of Defence|page=31|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=27 February 2019}}</ref> It has one runway (01/19) which is {{Convert|1825|m|0}} long and is constructed from [[asphalt]] and [[concrete]]. A second runway (06/26) is no longer in use along with western taxiways. The airfield features two areas known as load parks (north and south), which are used by helicopters for practising under-slung load operations.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-benson/documents/raf-benson-defence-aerodrome-manual/|title=RAF Benson Defence Aerodrome Manual|last=|first=|date=19 November 2018|website=Royal Air Force|publisher=[[Military Aviation Authority]]|page=E-19|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=2 March 2019}}</ref> @@ -134,5 +134,5 @@ === Medium Support Helicopter Aircrew Training Facility === -The Medium Support Helicopter Aircrew Training Facility (MSHATF) is home to six helicopter [[Flight simulator|flight simulators]] (three Chinook, two Merlin and a Puma version). The facility was established in October 1997 and is operated by [[Serco]] and [[CAE Inc.|CAE Aircrew Training Services]] through a [[Private finance initiative|Private Finance Initiative]] contract. It employs around 70 personnel and trains RAF, Royal Navy, British Army and foreign crews. As well as the simulators, there are also four computer-based ground school training classrooms and a tactical control centre, allowing for operational mission training. In October 2017, the MOD announced it would invest £90 million in the facility over eight years.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.forces.net/news/mod-invest-ps90-million-raf-training-centre|title=MoD To Invest £90 Million In RAF Training Centre|last=|first=|date=24 October 2017|website=Forces Network|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=2 March 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/15614505.90m-announced-for-immersive-south-oxfordshire-helicopter-simulators/|title=£90m announced for 'immersive' South Oxfordshire helicopter simulators|last=Grubb|first=Sophie|date=24 October 2017|website=Oxford Mail|publisher=Newsquest|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=2 March 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.serco.com/uk/news/media-releases/2017/serco-awarded-extension-to-helicopter-pilot-training-contract-at-raf-benson|title=Serco awarded extension to helicopter pilot training contract at RAF Benson|last=|first=|date=26 October 2017|website=Serco|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=2 March 2019}}</ref> +The Medium Support Helicopter Aircrew Training Facility (MSHATF) is home to six helicopter [[Flight simulator|flight simulators]] (three Chinook, two Merlin and a Puma version). The facility was established in October 1997 and is operated by [[Serco]] and [[CAE Inc.|CAE Aircrew Training Services]] through a [[Private finance initiative|Private Finance Initiative]] contract. It employs around 70 personnel and trains RAF, Royal Navy, [[British Army]], [[NATO]] and foreign crews. As well as the simulators, there are also four computer-based ground school training classrooms and a tactical control centre, allowing for operational mission training. In October 2017, the MOD announced it would invest £90 million in the facility over eight years.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.forces.net/news/mod-invest-ps90-million-raf-training-centre|title=MoD To Invest £90 Million In RAF Training Centre|last=|first=|date=24 October 2017|website=Forces Network|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=2 March 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/15614505.90m-announced-for-immersive-south-oxfordshire-helicopter-simulators/|title=£90m announced for 'immersive' South Oxfordshire helicopter simulators|last=Grubb|first=Sophie|date=24 October 2017|website=Oxford Mail|publisher=Newsquest|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=2 March 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.serco.com/uk/news/media-releases/2017/serco-awarded-extension-to-helicopter-pilot-training-contract-at-raf-benson|title=Serco awarded extension to helicopter pilot training contract at RAF Benson|last=|first=|date=26 October 2017|website=Serco|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=2 March 2019}}</ref> ==Role and operations== @@ -140,14 +140,18 @@ === Support Helicopter Force (SHF) === -RAF Benson's mission statement is to ''Deliver support helicopter operational capability.''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/mission.cfm|title=Our Mission|last=|first=|date=|website=RAF Benson|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=11 October 2017}}</ref> To fulfil this mission, the station is home to [[No. 33 Squadron RAF|No. 33 Squadron]] and [[No. 230 Squadron RAF|No. 230 Squadron]], both operating the [[Aérospatiale SA 330 Puma|Westland Puma HC2]], and forming part of the RAF's Support Helicopter Force. The Puma is a medium-lift helicopter used for tactical troop and load movements across the battlefield. The aircraft can carry up to 16 passengers or 12 fully equipped troops, or up to two tonnes of freight carried either internally or as an under-slung load.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/equipment/puma.cfm|title=Puma HC1|last=|first=|date=|website=Royal Air Force|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=14 August 2017}}</ref> +RAF Benson's mission statement is to ''Deliver support helicopter operational capability.''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/RAFbenson/aboutus/mission.cfm|title=Our Mission|last=|first=|date=|website=RAF Benson|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=11 October 2017}}</ref> To fulfil this mission, the station is home to [[No. 33 Squadron RAF|No. 33 Squadron]] and [[No. 230 Squadron RAF|No. 230 Squadron]], both operating the [[Aérospatiale SA 330 Puma|Westland Puma HC2]], and forming part of the RAF's Support Helicopter Force. The Puma is a medium-lift helicopter used for tactical troop and load movements across the battlefield. The aircraft can carry up to sixteen passengers or twelve fully equipped troops, or up to two tonnes of freight carried either internally or as an under-slung load.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.raf.mod.uk/equipment/puma.cfm|title=Puma HC1|last=|first=|date=|website=Royal Air Force|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=14 August 2017}}</ref> -[[No. 28 Squadron RAF|No. 28 Squadron]] is the combined Puma and [[Boeing Chinook (UK variants)|Boeing Chinook HC4]] operational conversion unit which trains crews for both aircraft types. +[[No. 28 Squadron RAF|No. 28 Squadron]] is the combined Puma and [[Boeing Chinook (UK variants)|Boeing Chinook HC4]] operational conversion unit. It receives crews from the [[Defence Helicopter Flying School]] at [[RAF Shawbury]] and builds on their existing skills learnt from basic and advanced helicopter training to qualify them on the Puma and Chinook. -Flying operations are supported by units such as the Rotary Wing Operational Evaluation and Training Unit and Medium Support Helicopter Aircrew Training Facility which operates a variety of simulators.<ref name=":1" /> The Joint Helicopter Support Squadron is a joint RAF and British Army unit which provides a ground support capability to the RAF's Support Helicopter Force. +Flying operations are supported by units such as the Rotary Wing Operational Evaluation and Training Unit and Medium Support Helicopter Aircrew Training Facility which operates a variety of simulators.<ref name=":1" /> The Joint Helicopter Support Squadron is a joint RAF and British Army unit which provides a ground support capability to the RAF's Support Helicopter Force. + +[[No. 606 Squadron RAF|No. 606 (Chiltern) Squadron (RAuxAF)]] is a [[Royal Auxiliary Air Force|reserve]] unit that provides personnel in ground-support roles to assist the Support Helicopter Force. === Basic flying training === -RAF Benson is also home to the [[Grob Tutor]] light aircraft of the [[Oxford University Air Squadron]] and No. 6 Air Experience Flight.[[File:RAF Benson - geograph.org.uk - 1058622.jpg|thumb|RAF Benson control tower and associated buildings in 2008|alt=]] -=== Civilian === -The station has its own flying club, which consists of service and civilian personnel. The [[National Police Air Service]] have a unit based at Benson alongside the [[Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance|Thames Valley Air Ambulance]] which moved from [[White Waltham Airfield]] in January 2007. Both services operate the [[Eurocopter EC135]].<ref name=":1" /> +RAF Benson is also home to the [[Grob Tutor]] light aircraft of the [[Oxford University Air Squadron]] and [[No. 6 Air Experience Flight RAF|No. 6 Air Experience Flight]]. The units provides offer basic flying training and adventure training to University undergraduates and graduates and encourage members to embark upon a career in the RAF.[[File:RAF Benson - geograph.org.uk - 1058622.jpg|thumb|RAF Benson control tower and associated buildings in 2008|alt=]] +=== Civilian flying === +The station has its own flying club, which consists of service and civilian personnel. + +The [[National Police Air Service]] have a unit based at Benson alongside the [[Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance|Thames Valley Air Ambulance]] which moved from [[White Waltham Airfield]] in January 2007. Both services operate the [[Eurocopter EC135]].<ref name=":1" /> === Command === @@ -173,6 +177,8 @@ * [[No. 606 Squadron RAF|No. 606 (Chiltern) Squadron (Royal Auxiliary Air Force)]] '''[[No. 22 Group RAF|No. 22 Group (Training) RAF]]''' -* [[Oxford University Air Squadron]] -* [[No. 6 Air Experience Flight RAF|No. 6 Air Experience Flight]] + +* [[No. 6 Flying Training School RAF|No. 6 Flying Training School]] +** [[Oxford University Air Squadron]] +** [[No. 6 Air Experience Flight RAF|No. 6 Air Experience Flight]] === Civilian === @@ -189,5 +195,5 @@ === Gate guardian === -Since 2012, Benson's [[Gate guardian|gate guardian]] has been a full-scale replica of a wartime [[Supermarine Spitfire (late Merlin-powered variants)|Supermarine Spitfire PR.Mk XI]]. It carries the markings of [[Flight lieutenant|Flight Lieutenant]] Duncan McCuaig DFC who died whilst conducting a photographic reconnaissance mission over [[Bremen]] in Germany as part of [[Operation Crossbow|''Operation Crossbow'']]. This aircraft replaced a genuine Spitfire PR.MK XIX that was been restored to flying status.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-hampshire-15850834|title=Spitfire returns to RAF air base|last=|first=|date=23 November 2011|work=|access-date=2 March 2019}}</ref> +Since 2012, Benson's [[Gate guardian|gate guardian]] has been a full-scale replica of a wartime [[Supermarine Spitfire (late Merlin-powered variants)|Supermarine Spitfire PR.Mk XI]]. It carries the markings of [[Flight lieutenant|Flight Lieutenant]] Duncan McCuaig DFC who died whilst conducting a photographic reconnaissance mission over [[Bremen]] in Germany as part of [[Operation Crossbow]]''.'' This aircraft replaced a genuine Spitfire PR.MK XIX that was been restored to flying status.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-hampshire-15850834|title=Spitfire returns to RAF air base|last=|first=|date=23 November 2011|work=|access-date=2 March 2019}}</ref> === Built heritage === @@ -207,10 +213,10 @@ ==External links== {{Commons category|RAF Benson}} -* [https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-benson/ Official RAF Benson website] -* [http://lionsroarmagazine.co.uk/ Official RAF Benson magazine (Lion'sRoar)] -* {{WAD|EGUB}} -* [http://www.npas.police.uk/ National Police Air Service] -* [https://www.rafbfc.co.uk/ RAF Benson Flying Club] -* [https://www.tvairambulance.org.uk/ Thames Valley Air Ambulance] +*{{Official website|https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-benson}} +*[http://lionsroarmagazine.co.uk/ Lion'sRoar] – RAF Benson station magazine +*[https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-benson/documents/raf-benson-defence-aerodrome-manual/ RAF Benson Defence Aerodrome Manual] +*[https://www.rafbfc.co.uk/ RAF Benson Flying Club] + +{{Royal Air Force}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Benson}} '