Fighting for Peace
Mix the top skills of highly trained personnel with state-of-the-art equipment and you get an organisation like the RAF – an organisation that is invaluable to a range of important global missions, such as peacekeeping and aiding victims of war and natural disaster.
Plus, as first and foremost a fighting force, the RAF is also always on hand to help war-torn countries reach a peaceful conclusion as quickly as possible, with minimum effect to the population.
This vast range of roles means that the RAF operates around the world. Here’s just a quick look at some of the missions taking place right now:
Afghanistan (Operation Herrick)
In the wake of recent terrorist actions, the RAF is working hard in Afghanistan – focussing on anti-terrorism drives. The RAF is also part of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), helping Afghanistan rebuild itself.
Bosnia and Herzegovina (Operation Althea)
As part of EUFOR (European Union Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina), the RAF is providing a safe and secure environment for the country’s people, supplying much-needed bomb disposal, meteorological and medical personnel.
Iraq (Operation TELIC)
Since the end of major combat operations in April 2003, the RAF has been providing security for people living in Iraq, as well as reinstating essential services.
Here are a few examples of how RAF operations have made differences in the past:
Operation Garron, 2004
When the Tsunami hit Indonesia at the end of 2004, the RAF responded rapidly, orchestrating a huge operation to supply the affected nations with everything from tarpaulins to generators, water purification tablets to forklift trucks.
Hurricane Katrina, September 2005
The Hurricane hit the USA in 2005, causing severe damage to coastal areas of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. The RAF sent over 500,000 ration packs to areas where food supplies were scarce.
Pakistan Earthquake, November 2005
After the Indian Earthquake struck in 2005, getting medical supplies, food and shelter to victims was the highest priority. RAF Chinook helicopters were part of the global United Nations aid mission, delivering all this to the region. Even the remotest places needed assistance and the RAF worked tirelessly with the Pakistani Air Corps to survey the devastated terrain.
