Australian Army Training with Navy MRH90

Royal Australian Navy, June 05, 2015 - Singleton, New South Wales - One of the Royal Australian Navy's MRH90 helicopters from 808 Squadron in Nowra, New South Wales, has recently supported their Army colleagues from 8 Brigade during training serials at Singleton Barracks.

The training was to familiarise soldiers with the aircraft and exercise trooping drills.

Aircraft Commander, Lieutenant Commander Jeremy French on exchange from the Royal Navy, said it was a great experience for the Navy crew.

"808 Squadron were delighted to be able to support this training opportunity and widen exposure to this impressive capability," he said.

"Whilst not our core role, 808 Squadron deployed flights could be required to support the amphibious main effort and work closely with Army elements during Operations."

808 Squadron has a large number of aircrew that have completed tours in Afghanistan with the Royal Navy including Leading Seaman Aircrewman Matt Jose.

"It's a great aircraft and the soldiers seemed impressed with it," he said.

"We moved 170 troops in marching order in six hours and the feedback I received was all positive."

808 Squadron are poised to support HMAS Canberra in their Unit Readiness work-up and will be embarked in HMAS Choules for the upcoming Exercise TALISMAN SABRE.