Why an abundance of army helicopters have landed at RAF Leeming

Military helicopters, including Chinooks, Merlins, and Wildcats descended on the North Yorkshire base this week.

And for the next fortnight the skies above North Yorkshire will be alive with the noise of helicopters conducting a range of demanding missions as part of Exercise Hades Warrior.

Helicopters flying over RAF Leeming (Image: Cpl Adam Fletcher - RAF) Now in its second year, Exercise Hades Warrior prepares pilots for real-life flying, including in conflicts and warfare.

It will take place across the North and Scotland.

A Wildcat helicopter (Image: Cpl Adam Fletcher - RAF) The training brings together aircraft and personnel from across the British Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force.

A Chinook helicopter (Image: AS1 Jessica Eglon) Aircraft currently at RAF Leeming include a Wildcat from the 847 Naval Air Squadron, Chinooks from RAF Odiham’s 27 Squadron, and Merlins operated by the Commando Helicopter Force.

The Chinook is described by the military as an "extremely capable and highly versatile support helicopter that can be operated from land or sea bases into a range of diverse environments," while the Merlin helicopter is the Royal Navy's airborne submarine hunter.

The Wildcat helicopter is usually found on the battlefield, including reconnaissance missions, command and control, and transportation of troops.

A Merlin helicopter (Image: AS1 Jessica Eglon/RAF) The base has welcomed hundreds of aircrew, engineers, communications teams, and support staff who are set to carry out missions for the next two weeks.

The 2024 exercise, the first 'Hades Warrior', involved more than 200 personnel and seven army Air Corps.

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The army said it proved vital in enhancing inter-service cooperation, tactical warfighting skills, and operational readiness.

According to RAF Leeming officials, the 2025 exercise continues to prioritise not just flying training, but also the rapid deployment of units and equipment to "austere and unfamiliar environments".

The exercise also provides the opportunity for cross-service enablers to test logistics and communications under realistic conditions.