THE Royal Air Force has been putting its airfield protection skills to the test in preparation for future operational commitments.

Leeming-based 34 Squadron RAF Regiment from RAF Leeming, took part in the intensive five day Exercise Lions Dawn at West Freugh Airfield, Scotland, finalising preparations for its new role in the Joint Expeditionary Force later this month.

During the exercise, the squadron, who provided airfield protection in Afghanistan, were required to seize and take control of an airfield to allow future aircraft operations to take place safely.

Personnel were transported by a Hercules aircraft and upon arrival at the airfield were faced with a variety of challenging tasks.

After initially clearing and taking control of the airfield, they had to deal with multiple scenarios including public order incidents, insider threats, an attack against an enemy stronghold and an assault against the airfield.

The exercise was supported throughout by fast jet Typhoons and Hawks from 100 Squadron.

Operations officer Flight Lieutenant Nathan Foster said: “The squadron will soon be at high readiness for deployment on complex or simple intervention operations, and Exercise Lions Dawn provided us with the opportunity to challenge ourselves within the complexities that it may bring.”

Commanding officer Squadron Leader Dan Roberts added: “Preparing for contingency means going back to basics and I was impressed with the squadron’s attitude, determination and attention to detail.

“The officers and airmen performed superbly in the face of the varied and unpredictable scenario threats and hazards.”

The Joint Expeditionary Force is a pool of high readiness, adaptable forces designed to enhance the UK’s ability to respond rapidly, anywhere in the world, with like-minded allies, or on behalf of international organisations such as the UN or NATO.