Fleet Air Arm: Difference between revisions - Wikipedia

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~~{{for|the division of the Royal Australian Navy|Fleet Air Arm (RAN)}}~~

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| start_date = 1914 (As the [[Royal Naval Air Service]]) 1924 (as the naval branch of the Royal Air Force)

1937 (as part of [[Naval Service (United Kingdom)|Naval Service]])

| dates =

| country = {{flagicon|United Kingdom}} United Kingdom

| image = Fleet Air Arm logo.svg

| image_size =

| caption =

| branch = {{navy|United Kingdom}}

| role =

| size = 5,000 personnel {{circa| 160}} aircraft<ref name="HC4upgraded">[http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2015-02-25/225369/ Military Aircraft:Written question – 225369 (House of Commons Hansard)] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160826233641/http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/Commons/2015-02-25/225369/ |date=26 August 2016 }}, Parliament of the United Kingdom, March 2015</ref>

| command_structure = [[His Majesty's Naval Service|Naval Service]]

| garrison =

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| equipment =

| equipment_label =

| nickname =

| patron =

| motto =

| colors =

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| battles = [[Second World War]] [[Korean War]] [[Operation Musketeer (Suez Crisis)]] [[Falklands War]] [[Gulf War]] [[Bosnia]] [[Operation Herrick|Afghanistan War]] [[Iraq War]]

| anniversaries =

| decorations =

| battle_honours =

| website = {{Official URL}}

| current_commander =

~~| current_commander =~~

| current_commander_label = [[Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Aviation & Carriers)|Rear Admiral Fleet Air Arm]]

| ceremonial_chief = [[Catherine, Princess of Wales|~~HRH~~ The Princess of Wales]] ~~{{post-nominals|country=GBR|GCVO}}~~

| ceremonial_chief_label = [[Commodore-in-Chief]]

| colonel_of_the_regiment = Commodore Nicholas M. Walker<ref>{{cite news |author= |title=ROYAL NAVY SHOWS COMMITMENT TO DRONE TECHNOLOGY FOR FUTURE OPERATIONS |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/july/31/200731-future-maritime-aviation-force |work=Royal Navy |date=31 July 2020 |access-date=20 October 2020}}</ref><ref>{{London Gazette |issue=63151 |date=20 October 2020 |page=17730 |supp= y}}</ref>

| colonel_of_the_regiment_label = [[Commodore Fleet Air Arm]]

| notable_commanders =

~~~~

| identification_symbol = [[File:Naval Ensign of the United Kingdom.svg|border|140px]]

| identification_symbol_label = [[Naval Ensign|White Ensign]]

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| identification_symbol_3_label = [[Fin flash]]es

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| aircraft_attack = [[AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat|Wildcat HMA2]]

| aircraft_bomber =

| aircraft_fighter = [[Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II|F-35B Lightning II]]

| aircraft_interceptor =

| aircraft_recon = [[AeroVironment RQ-20 Puma]]<ref>{{cite web|title=NAVY'S DRONE EXPERTS 700X NAS READY TO DEPLOY ON WARSHIPS|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/august/17/200817-700x-three-new-flights}}</ref> [[AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat|Commando Wildcat AH1]]

[[Schiebel Camcopter S-100|Peregrine rotary-wing UAV]]

| aircraft_patrol = [[AgustaWestland AW101|Merlin HM2]] [[AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat|Wildcat HMA2]]

| aircraft_trainer = [[Beechcraft Super King Air|Avenger T1]] [[Grob G 120TP|Prefect T1]] [[Grob G 115|Tutor T1]] [[Eurocopter EC135|Juno HT1]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/our-organisation/the-fighting-arms/fleet-air-arm/support-and-training/705-naval-air-squadron|title=705 Naval Air Squadron | Royal Navy|website=royalnavy.mod.uk}}</ref> [[Eurocopter EC145|Jupiter HT1]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters/pictures-juno-and-jupiter-helicopters-arrive-at-raf-shawbury/123623.article|title=PICTURES: Juno and Jupiter helicopters arrive at RAF Shawbury|first=Dominic|last=Perry |website=Flightglobal}}</ref>

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The '''Fleet Air Arm''' ('''FAA''') is the [[naval aviation]] component of the United Kingdom's [[Royal Navy]] (RN). The FAA is one of five [[:Category:Fighting Arms of the Royal Navy|RN fighting arms]].<ref>{{cite web |title=THE ROYAL NAVY'S SURFACE FLEET |url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/About-the-Royal-Navy/~/media/Files/Navy-PDFs/About-the-Royal-Navy/Surface%20Fleet%20Information%20Leaflet.pdf |website=royalnavy.mod.uk |publisher=MOD UK |access-date=5 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121018112225/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/About-the-Royal-Navy/~/media/Files/Navy-PDFs/About-the-Royal-Navy/Surface%20Fleet%20Information%20Leaflet.pdf |archive-date=18 October 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> {{As of|2023}} it is a ~~predominantly "rotary" force, with~~primarily [[helicopter]]s ~~undertaking~~force, ~~roles~~though ~~once~~also ~~performed~~operating bythe [[~~biplane]]s~~Lockheed ~~such~~Martin asF-35 ~~the~~Lightning ~~[[Fairey~~II|F-35 ~~Swordfish~~Lightning II]]~~.<ref>{{Cite~~ ~~web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/the~~carrier-~~equipment/aircraft|title=~~based ~~Aircraft~~stealth ~~|~~fighter jointly with the [[Royal ~~Navy}}</ref>{{not~~Air ~~in citation|date=May~~Force]]. ~~2023}}~~

It operates the [[Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II|F-35 Lightning II]] for maritime strike and the [[AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat|AW159 Wildcat]] and [[AgustaWestland AW101|AW101 Merlin]] for commando and anti-submarine warfare.

~~The Fleet Air Arm was formed in 1924 as an organisational unit of the [[Royal Air Force]] (RAF), which was then operating the aircraft embarked on RN ships.~~ The RAF was formed by the 1918 merger of the RN's [[Royal Naval Air Service]] with the [[British Army]]'s [[Royal Flying Corps]]. The FAA did not come under the direct control of the [[Admiralty (United Kingdom)|Admiralty]] until mid-1939. During the Second World War, the FAA operated aircraft on ships as well as land-based aircraft that defended [[List of Royal Navy shore establishments|the Royal Navy's shore establishment]]s and facilities.

==History==

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===Beginnings===

British naval flying started in 1909, with the construction of an [[airship]] for naval duties.<ref name=FAAA>{{cite web |url=http://www.fleetairarmarchive.net/History/Index.htm |title=Naval Aviation history and the Fleet Air Arm Origins |work=fleetairarmarchive.net |access-date=8 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150519005147/http://www.fleetairarmarchive.net/History/Index.htm |archive-date=19 May 2015 |url-status=usurped}}</ref> In 1911 the Royal Navy graduated its first aeroplane pilots at the [[Royal Aero Club]] [[RAF Eastchurch|flying ground near Eastchurch]], [[Isle of Sheppey]] under the tutelage of pioneer aviator [[George Bertram Cockburn]].<ref>{{cite journal |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1911/1911%20-%200418.html?search=cockburn |title=Training of Naval Officers at Eastchurch |issue=124 |volume=III |page=420 |journal=[[Flight International|Flight]] |date=13 May 1911 |access-date=8 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150525013959/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1911/1911%20-%200418.html?search=cockburn |archive-date=25 May 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> In May 1912, naval and army aviation were combined to become the [[Royal Flying Corps]] (RFC). The Naval Wing of the RFC lasted until July 1914 when the Royal Navy reformed its air branch, under the [[Air Department]] of the [[British Admiralty|Admiralty]], naming it the Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS).{{sfn|Roskill|1969|p=156}} By the outbreak of the First World War, in August 1914, the RNAS had more aircraft under its control than the remaining RFC.{{sfn|Bradbeer|2014|p=}}{{page needed|date=March 2020}} The roles of the RNAS were fleet reconnaissance, patrolling coasts for enemy ships and submarines, attacking enemy coastal territory and defending Britain from enemy air raids, along with deployment along the Western Front. In April 1918 the RNAS, which at this time had 67,000 officers and men, 2,949 aircraft, 103 airships and 126 coastal stations, merged with the RFC to form the [[Royal Air Force]].{{sfn|Boyne|2003|p=70}}

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====Museums====

The Fleet Air Arm has a [[Fleet Air Arm Museum|museum]] near RNAS Yeovilton (HMS ''Heron'') in [[Somerset]], England, at which many of the great historical aircraft flown by the Service are on display, along with aircraft from other sources. There is also a Fleet Air Arm museum inside the [[Museum of Transport & Technology]] in [[Auckland]], New Zealand. On display there is a full-size replica [[Fairey Swordfish]], along with historic items and memorabilia.

==The FAA today==

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As of 1 December 2013, the Regular Fleet Air Arm has a reported strength of 5,000 personnel,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dasa.mod.uk/publications/personnel/military/navy-monthly-situation-report/2013-12-01/1-december-2013.pdf |title=Royal Navy monthly situation report |date=1 December 2013 |quote=See table 4a page 18 and table 4b page 20 |access-date=9 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140202125201/http://www.dasa.mod.uk/publications/personnel/military/navy-monthly-situation-report/2013-12-01/1-december-2013.pdf |archive-date=2 February 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> which represents approximately 20% of the Royal Navy's total strength (excluding [[Royal Marines]]).

The [[Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Aviation & Carriers)]], the professional head (and also Rear Admiral Fleet Air Arm), is Rear Admiral [[Martin Connell (Royal Navy officer)|Martin Connell]] as of February 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fleetairarmoa.org/news/all-change-at-the-top-fleet-air-arm-|title= All Change at the Top Fleet Air Arm}}</ref> Under First Sea Lord Admiral [[Tony Radakin]]’s plans, the professional head of the Fleet Air Arm is set to shortly change to a one-star role, headed by a [[Commodore (Royal Navy)|Commodore]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.forces.net/news/royal-navy-cut-back-senior-personnel|title=Royal Navy To Cut Back On Senior Personnel|last=at 2:35 pm|website=Forces Network|date=23 December 2019 |language=en|access-date=8 January 2020}}</ref>

Members of the Fleet Air Arm continue to be known as WAFUs.<ref>{{cite web |title=Fleet Air Arm Video Page: "Once a WAFU, Always a WAFU" |url=https://royal-naval-association-wrexham-branch.org.uk/faa-videos/ |website=Royal Naval Association Wrexham Branch |access-date=29 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Hind |first1=Bob |title=Royal Navy flyers land on pitching postage stamp deck |url=https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/heritage-and-retro/retro/royal-navy-flyers-land-pitching-postage-stamp-deck-nostalgia-2899749 |website=The News (Portsmouth) |access-date=29 August 2020}}</ref> WAFU ("wet and ~~flipping~~f**king useless") is said to actually derive from "Weapon and Fuel Users", a stores category for clothing.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Jolly |first1=Rick |title=Jackspeak: A guide to British Naval slang & usage |date=25 Jan 2018 |publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing |isbn=978-1472834140|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=V4xaDwAAQBAJ&q=wafu+fleet+air+arm&pg=PT456 |access-date=29 August 2020}}</ref>

====Reserve Air Branch====

The RNR Air Branch was commissioned at RNAS Yeovilton on 16 July 1980, and shortly afterwards 38 ex-regular aircrew began refresher training. Today the RNR Air Branch comprises approximately 250 ex-regular service Officers and Ratings, covering all aviation trades, tasked to support the Fleet Air Arm.

The Air Branch has its roots in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve Air Branch, whose members served with distinction between 1937 through the Second World War until 1950 when it was disbanded. Formed on 3 April 1980, the Air Branch was initially established to provide additional Pilots and Observers to the Royal Navy, but later expanded to include all trades and specialisations of the Fleet Air Arm. Currently comprising some 320 personnel, HMS Pegasus is one of the biggest Units in the Royal Naval Reserve.

The name HMS Pegasus has a long and interesting history in the Royal Navy, dating back to 1585. The second HMS Pegasus was commanded by Prince William Henry, who later became King William IV, known as the Sailor King. In late 1786, the third HMS Pegasus was stationed in the West Indies under then Captain Horatio Nelson, earning three of her four Battle Honours. The fourth and last HMS Pegasus served as a prototype fighter catapult ship, originally commissioned as HMS Ark Royal, serving primarily on convoy duty in the Second World War.

The name Pegasus has associations outside of the Royal Navy, including the Bristol Aeroplane Company engine that powered the Fairey Swordfish and the Rolls Royce engine that powered the BAE Sea Harrier. And, of course, the Parachute Regiment use Pegasus as their emblem.

===Insignia===

[[File:FleetAirArm wings.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Fleet Air Arm pilot wings]]▼

[[File:UK-Navy-OF-5-collected Fleet Air Arm Pilot.svg|thumb|right|Fleet Air Arm Captain and Pilot]]

The FAA is known for its use of the 'Fleet Air Arm Zig Zag': a light blue zig zag on a dark blue background.

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Today, the dark blue background represents the Royal Navy; the colour of the zigzag represents the Royal Flying Corps, from which the Royal Naval Air Service was born; and the zigzag shape represents a nod to the Royal Artillery (red zigzag on blue background), given that the first people sent aloft in tethered balloons to spot the fall of shot were Royal Artillery observers. It was these observers who became early members of the Royal Flying Corps.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Royal Flying Corps – people|url=http://www.airhistory.org.uk/rfc/people.html|website=airhistory.org.uk|access-date=30 April 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Kay Canvas|url=http://www.kaycanvas.com/impressions/british/the-british-royal-flying-corps-rfc-in-ww1/|website=kaycanvas.com|access-date=30 April 2020}}</ref>

▲[[File:FleetAirArm wings.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Fleet Air Arm pilot wings]]

Aircrew wear flying badges, such as pilots wearing a pair of gold albatross wings. The wings badges also feature a crown and fouled anchor in the centre, to reflect the maritime element of the flying undertaken. Wings are worn on the left sleeve of naval aviators, unlike their other service counterparts.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Royal Navy BR3 – Dress Regulations|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/-/media/royal-navy-responsive/documents/reference-library/br-3-vol-1/chapter-39.pdf#page16|page=39E–1}}</ref>

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===Fixed wing===

====F-35B Lightning II====▼

[[File:Britain's most advanced jets touch down on home soil MOD 45164370.jpg|thumb|The Fleet Air Arm operates the F-35B from the ''Queen Elizabeth''-class aircraft carriers.]]▼

The introduction of the [[Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II|F-35B Lightning II]] saw a restoration of fixed wing, front-line operations to the FAA after the retirement of [[Joint Force Harrier]] in 2010. The Lightning Force is a joint RAF-Fleet Air Arm formation with all F-35Bs capable of operating from the Royal Navy's [[Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier]]s. The first Fleet Air Arm squadron to operate the F-35B is [[809 Naval Air Squadron]] which formally stood-up in December 2023, joining other F-35B squadrons within the RAF that are formally part of [[No. 1 Group RAF]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/building-up-the-lightning-force-when-will-the-uk-get-its-f-35-jets/ | title=Building up the Lightning Force – when will the UK get its F-35 jets? | Navy Lookout | date=14 September 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |url=https://twitter.com/NavyLookout/status/1733080885820260761?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet |title=@NavyLookout F-35 with @809NAS 'phoenix from the flames' tail art on display at @RAF_Marham as the squadron recommissions today. |number=1733080885820260761 |user=NavyLookout |date=8 December 2023 |access-date=8 December 2023}}</ref>

An initial order of 48 airframes was made in 2012 to equip the air wings of the ~~planned~~ two ''Queen Elizabeth''-class aircraft carriers, with the operation split between the FAA and the [[Royal Air Force]], as was the case with Joint Force Harrier. [[809 Naval Air Squadron]] was announced as the second UK unit to fly the F-35B (the first being [[No. 617 Squadron RAF|617 Squadron RAF]]) and ~~will be~~is the first FAA unit to operate the aircraft. It is understood that at least two further frontline squadrons will stand up in the future alongside 809, 617, [[No. 17 Squadron RAF|17(R) Test and Evaluation Squadron]] and an RAF-numbered Operational Conversion Unit, creating a total of six squadrons including the OCU and OEU. Under the Strategic Defence and Security Review of November 2015, the UK Government made a commitment to buying 138 F-35B, with at least 24 available for carrier use by 2023.<ref>{{cite news|title=Osborne: UK to speed up aircraft carrier jet purchase|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-34893614|access-date=22 November 2015|work=BBC News|date=22 November 2015}}</ref><ref name="SDSR2015">{{cite web|title=National Security Strategy and Strategic Defence and Security Review 2015|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478933/52309_Cm_9161_NSS_SD_Review_web_only.pdf|publisher=Government of the United Kingdom|access-date=26 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151124082813/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478933/52309_Cm_9161_NSS_SD_Review_web_only.pdf|archive-date=24 November 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> Subsequently, following on the [[Defence in a Competitive Age|2021 defence review]], the First Sea Lord indicated that the new envisaged number was to be 60 aircraft initially and "then maybe more", up to a maximum of around 80 to hopefully equip four "deployable squadrons".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/uk-looking-at-60-maybe-up-to-around-80-f-35b-jets/|title = UK looking at '60 and then maybe up to 80′ F-35B jets|date = 23 March 2021}}</ref> In April 2022, the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Richard Knighton, told the House of Commons Defence Select Committee that the MoD was in discussions to purchase a second tranche of 26 F-35B fighters. Plans for frontline F-35B squadrons had been modified and now envisaged a total of three squadrons (rather than four) each deploying 12-16 aircraft~~. As of 2022, it is planned that at least one of these squadrons will be a Fleet Air Arm Squadron (No 809 Squadron)~~.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2022-06-23.HL1253.h | title=F-35 Aircraft }}</ref> In surge conditions 24 F-35s might be deployed on the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers but a routine deployment would likely involve 12 aircraft.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/uk-to-purchase-at-least-74-f-35-jets/ | title=UK to purchase at least 74 F-35 jets | Navy Lookout | date=27 April 2022 }}</ref>▼

In January 2019, initial operating capability for the UK's F-35B was announced<ref>{{cite news|title=UK declares IOC Land for F-35 force|url=https://www.janes.com/article/85642/uk-declares-ioc-land-for-f-35-force|access-date=11 January 2019|publisher=IHS Janes|date=11 January 2019}}</ref> with 18 F-35Bs jointly delivered to the UK.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://airforcesmonthly.keypublishing.com/2019/05/21/lightning-to-cyprus-first-deployment-for-uk-f-35b/|title= Key.Aero - the Only Destination for Aviation Enthusiasts}}</ref> As of December 2022, 26 aircraft were operational in the UK and were based at [[RAF Marham]]. These aircraft regularly deployed for operations on the ''Queen Elizabeth-class'' aircraft carriers.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/nov/17/british-f35-jet-crashes-into-mediterranean|title=British F-35 jet crashes into Mediterranean|website=[[TheGuardian.com]]|date=17 November 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/more-f-35-jets-delivered-to-the-uk/|title = More F-35 jets delivered to the UK|date = 4 November 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.itv.com/news/anglia/2018-08-04/further-five-f-35-fighter-jets-land-at-new-raf-marham-home/|title= Further five F-35 fighter jets land at RAF Marham|date=4 August 2018}}</ref> Another 3 F-35s remained in the US for testing and evaluation purposes.▼

While 2933 F-35B aircraft (including 3 or 4 based in the U.S.) ~~had~~were ~~been delivered to~~in the U.K. inventory by ~~the~~March ~~end~~2024,<ref>{{cite ofweb ~~2022~~| url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/britain-takes-delivery-of-more-new-f-35-stealth-jets/#:~:text=The%20arrival%20of%20more%20F,by%20the%20end%20of%202025. | title=Britain takes delivery of more new F-35 stealth jets |website=UK Defence Journal |last=Allison |first=George | date= 17 March 2024}}</ref> former U.K. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace reported that the RAF and Royal Navy faced a considerable challenge in providing even the existing modest F-35B fleet with qualified pilots. As of late 2022 there were only 30 qualified British pilots (plus three exchange pilots from the United States and Australia) for the F-35. The average wait time for RAF trainee Typhoon and F-35 pilots, after completing the Military Flying Training System, was approximately 11 and 12 months respectively. A further gap of 68 weeks existed between completing Basic Flying Training and beginning Advanced Fast Jet Training. The resulting pilot shortage was a factor in ~~being~~delaying ~~able~~the ability to stand up the first Fleet Air Arm Squadron (809 Squadron) on a timely basis.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/features/uk-military-pilot-training-in-limbo-for-beleaguered-raf/ | title=UK military pilot training in limbo for beleaguered RAF | date=7 November 2022 }}</ref> In February 2023, the [[Chief of the Air Staff (United Kingdom)|Chief of the Air Staff]], Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston, reported that the number of F-35 pilots had grown to 34 UK pilots with a further 7 to complete training by August 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Oral evidence: Work of the Chief of the Air Staff, HC 1108 |url=https://committees.parliament.uk/oralevidence/12649/html/ |date=1 February 2023}}</ref>▼

====Training====

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===Rotary===

Today the largest section of the FAA is the rotary wing section. Pilots designated for rotary wing service train under [[No. 1 Flying Training School RAF|No. 1 Flying Training School]] at [[RAF Shawbury]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/local-hubs/north-shropshire/shawbury/2020/02/29/raf-chief-opens-state-of-the-art-helicopter-training-facilities-in-shawbury/|title=DHFS rebadging as No. 1 FTS – Shropshire Star|date=29 February 2020 }}</ref> The school is a tri-Service organisation consisting of civilian and military instructors (including Naval instructors and a Naval Air Squadron) that take the student from basic flying through to more advanced flying such as instrument flying, navigation, formation and captaincy.

Its aviators fly one of four types of helicopters:

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====Wildcat HMA2====

The [[AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat|Wildcat HMA2]] became the standard small ship borne helicopter in the FAA, with 28 Wildcats replacing the Lynx HMA8 in 2017. 28Twenty-eight [[AgustaWestland AW159|AW159 Wildcat HMA2]] helicopters perform a range of roles including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare and airborne surveillance.

====Merlin HM2====

[[File:Royal Navy Merlin Helicopter Launching a Training Torpedo MOD 45157953.jpg|alt=|thumb|A Merlin HM2 aircraft of [[824 Naval Air Squadron|824 NAS.]]]]

The [[AgustaWestland AW101|Merlin]] HM2 ("Grey Merlin") is the FAA's primary anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopter, having replaced the Sea King HAS6 in the role. It is presently deployed with various ships of the Royal Navy.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/the-equipment/aircraft/helicopters/merlin-mk2|title= Merlin Mk 2 | Royal Navy}}</ref>

Merlin HM2 isalso ~~set~~incorporates toan ~~operate~~[[Airborne ~~Crowsnest~~early ~~replace~~warning ~~the~~and ~~recently~~control|airborne ~~retired~~early ~~ASaC7~~warning ~~variant~~and ofsurveillance]] ~~the~~(AEW) ~~[[Westland~~variant, ~~Sea~~known ~~King|Sea~~as ~~King]]~~Crowsnest, which ~~operated~~replaced inthe ASaC7 variant of the [[~~Airborne~~Westland ~~early warning and~~Sea ~~control~~King|~~AEW~~Sea King]] ~~role~~. The first Merlin HM2 test flight with Crowsnest was completed in April 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2019/04/first-flight-for-royal-navys-merlin-crowsnest-aew-helicopter/|title=First Flight For Royal Navy's Merlin Crowsnest AEW Helicopter |last=Vavasseur |first=Xavier

|date= 11 April 2019 |website=Naval News }}</ref> ~~Initial~~However, initial operating capability of the system was significantly delayed. While Crowsnest was deployed with the U.K. carrier strike group in 2021, it experienced operating challenges and ~~revised~~finally ~~plans will now see Crowsnest achieve~~achieved initial operating capability in ~~the second quarter of~~July 2023. ~~and full~~Full operating capability is expected in 2024/25. While all Merlins in the Royal Navy will be equipped to operate Crowsnest, only ten kits for the system are being acquired. It has been reported that initially five Merlins will be equipped with Crowsnest, three of these being normally assigned to the "high readiness" aircraft carrier.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/crowsnest-airborne-surveillance-and-control-due-to-achieve-initial-operating-capability-in-2023/ | title=Crowsnest Airborne Surveillance and Control due to achieve Initial Operating Capability in 2023 | Navy Lookout | date=19 December 2022 }}</ref> Challenges involved in the Crowsnest program have led the Royal Navy to seek a replacement for its helicopter-based AEW platform with a new fixed-wing UAV, under [[Project Vixen]], by 2030.<ref name="VixenAEW">{{cite news |last1=Allison |first1=George |title=Royal Navy looking at fixed-wing carrier based drone for AEW |url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/royal-navy-looking-at-fixed-wing-carrier-based-drone-for-aew/ |access-date=7 April 2021 |work=[[UK Defence Journal]] |date=2 April 2021}}</ref>

===Unmanned===

As of 2024, the Royal Navy operated a number of small UAVs, including the [[AeroVironment RQ-20 Puma|AeroVironment Puma AE]] and Ebee Vision.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news/2024/september/20/240920-royal-navy-tests-technology-in-portugal | title=A range of drones and uncrewed vessels are deployed on a major international exercise in Portugal as the Royal Navy looks to push its latest technology to its limits. |website=Royal Navy |date=20 September 2024 | access-date=25 September 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.supplycore.com/catalog/unmanned-systems-counter-uas/drones/ebee-vision/ | title=eBee VISION |website=SupplyCore | access-date=25 September 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://campaign.ageagle.com/ebee-vision-drone | title=eBee VISION |website=AgEagle | access-date=25 September 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/august/17/200817-700x-three-new-flights|title = Navy's drone experts 700X NAS ready to deploy on warships}}</ref> In 2024, the Navy reported that there were a total of nine qualified Puma teams, six of which were dedicated to supporting the Royal Marines in [[40 Commando|40]] and [[45 Commando|45 Commando]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news/2024/october/08/20241008-700x-5th-anniversary | title=Royal Navy experts are embracing the next generation tech as they celebrate five successful years operating drones on the front line. |work=Royal Navy |date=8 October 2024 |access-date=8 October 2024}}</ref>

The Royal Navy operates the [[AeroVironment RQ-20 Puma|AeroVironment Puma AE]] as of 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/august/17/200817-700x-three-new-flights|title = Navy's drone experts 700X NAS ready to deploy on warships}}</ref>

===Future aircraft===▼

~~{{Further|Future of the Royal Navy}}~~

▲====F-35B Lightning II====

▲[[File:Britain's most advanced jets touch down on home soil MOD 45164370.jpg|thumb|The Fleet Air Arm operates the F-35B from the ''Queen Elizabeth''-class aircraft carriers.]]

The introduction of the [[Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II|F-35B Lightning II]] will see a restoration of fixed wing, front-line operations to the FAA since the retirement of [[Joint Force Harrier]] in 2010.

▲An initial order of 48 airframes was made in 2012 to equip the air wings of the planned two ''Queen Elizabeth''-class aircraft carriers, with the operation split between the FAA and the [[Royal Air Force]], as was the case with Joint Force Harrier. [[809 Naval Air Squadron]] was announced as the second UK unit to fly the F-35B (the first being [[No. 617 Squadron RAF|617 Squadron RAF]]) and will be the first FAA unit to operate the aircraft. It is understood that at least two further frontline squadrons will stand up in the future alongside 809, 617, [[No. 17 Squadron RAF|17(R) Test and Evaluation Squadron]] and an RAF-numbered Operational Conversion Unit, creating a total of six squadrons including the OCU and OEU. Under the Strategic Defence and Security Review of November 2015, the UK Government made a commitment to buying 138 F-35B, with at least 24 available for carrier use by 2023.<ref>{{cite news|title=Osborne: UK to speed up aircraft carrier jet purchase|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-34893614|access-date=22 November 2015|work=BBC News|date=22 November 2015}}</ref><ref name="SDSR2015">{{cite web|title=National Security Strategy and Strategic Defence and Security Review 2015|url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478933/52309_Cm_9161_NSS_SD_Review_web_only.pdf|publisher=Government of the United Kingdom|access-date=26 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151124082813/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478933/52309_Cm_9161_NSS_SD_Review_web_only.pdf|archive-date=24 November 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> Subsequently, following on the [[Defence in a Competitive Age|2021 defence review]], the First Sea Lord indicated that the new envisaged number was to be 60 aircraft initially and "then maybe more", up to a maximum of around 80 to hopefully equip four "deployable squadrons".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/uk-looking-at-60-maybe-up-to-around-80-f-35b-jets/|title = UK looking at '60 and then maybe up to 80′ F-35B jets|date = 23 March 2021}}</ref> In April 2022, the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Richard Knighton, told the House of Commons Defence Select Committee that the MoD was in discussions to purchase a second tranche of 26 F-35B fighters. Plans for frontline F-35B squadrons had been modified and now envisaged a total of three squadrons (rather than four) each deploying 12-16 aircraft. As of 2022, it is planned that at least one of these squadrons will be a Fleet Air Arm Squadron (No 809 Squadron).<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2022-06-23.HL1253.h | title=F-35 Aircraft }}</ref> In surge conditions 24 F-35s might be deployed on the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers but a routine deployment would likely involve 12 aircraft.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.navylookout.com/uk-to-purchase-at-least-74-f-35-jets/ | title=UK to purchase at least 74 F-35 jets | Navy Lookout | date=27 April 2022 }}</ref>

▲In January 2019, initial operating capability for the UK's F-35B was announced<ref>{{cite news|title=UK declares IOC Land for F-35 force|url=https://www.janes.com/article/85642/uk-declares-ioc-land-for-f-35-force|access-date=11 January 2019|publisher=IHS Janes|date=11 January 2019}}</ref> with 18 F-35Bs jointly delivered to the UK.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://airforcesmonthly.keypublishing.com/2019/05/21/lightning-to-cyprus-first-deployment-for-uk-f-35b/|title= Key.Aero - the Only Destination for Aviation Enthusiasts}}</ref> As of December 2022, 26 aircraft were operational in the UK and were based at [[RAF Marham]]. These aircraft regularly deployed for operations on the ''Queen Elizabeth-class'' aircraft carriers.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/nov/17/british-f35-jet-crashes-into-mediterranean|title=British F-35 jet crashes into Mediterranean|website=[[TheGuardian.com]]|date=17 November 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/more-f-35-jets-delivered-to-the-uk/|title = More F-35 jets delivered to the UK|date = 4 November 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.itv.com/news/anglia/2018-08-04/further-five-f-35-fighter-jets-land-at-new-raf-marham-home/|title= Further five F-35 fighter jets land at RAF Marham|date=4 August 2018}}</ref> Another 3 F-35s remained in the US for testing and evaluation purposes.

The FAA's inventory was further boosted with the addition of the [[Schiebel Camcopter S-100|Peregrine rotary-wing UAV]] which started trials on [[HMS Lancaster (F229)|HMS Lancaster]] in August 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/peregrine-rotary-wing-uav-to-enter-service-with-the-royal-navy/ |title=Peregrine rotary wing UAV to enter service with the Royal Navy |website=Navy Lookout |date=10 February 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/peregrine-rotary-wing-uas-conducts-initial-royal-navy-flying-trials-from-hms-lancaster/ |title=Peregrine rotary wing UAS conducts initial Royal Navy flying trials from HMS Lancaster |website=Navy Lookout |date=11 September 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |url=https://x.com/NavyLookout/status/1838876479343468865?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet |title=@NavyLookout Recent photos showing two Peregrine RWUAS embarked on @HMSLANCASTER for trials in the Indian Ocean. Both aircraft fitted with the Thales I-Master radar with tactical data link integrated into ship's combat managment system. |number=1838876479343468865 |user=NavyLookout |date=25 September 2024 |access-date=25 September 2024}}</ref>

▲While 29 F-35B aircraft (including 3 based in the U.S.) had been delivered to the U.K. by the end of 2022, U.K. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace reported that the RAF and Royal Navy faced a considerable challenge in providing even the existing modest F-35B fleet with qualified pilots. As of late 2022 there were only 30 qualified British pilots (plus three exchange pilots from the United States and Australia) for the F-35. The average wait time for RAF trainee Typhoon and F-35 pilots, after completing the Military Flying Training System, was approximately 11 and 12 months respectively. A further gap of 68 weeks existed between completing Basic Flying Training and beginning Advanced Fast Jet Training. The resulting pilot shortage was a factor in being able to stand up the first Fleet Air Arm Squadron (809 Squadron) on a timely basis.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/features/uk-military-pilot-training-in-limbo-for-beleaguered-raf/ | title=UK military pilot training in limbo for beleaguered RAF | date=7 November 2022 }}</ref>

▲===Future ~~aircraft~~===

In February 2023, the [[Chief of the Air Staff (United Kingdom)|Chief of the Air Staff]], Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston, reported that the number of F-35 pilots had grown to 34 UK pilots with a further 7 to complete training by August 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Oral evidence: Work of the Chief of the Air Staff, HC 1108 |url=https://committees.parliament.uk/oralevidence/12649/html/ |date=1 February 2023}}</ref>

A number of unmanned systems are under development for the Fleet Air Arm including fixed-wing UAVs, envisaged for potential operation from the ''Queen Elizabeth''-class carriers. These programs are in the conceptual or planning stages under a program known as [[Project Vixen]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/the-royal-navy-has-ambitious-plans-for-its-future-maritime-aviation-force/ |title=The Royal Navy has ambitious plans for its Future Maritime Aviation Force |website=Navy Lookout |date=2 June 2023}}</ref>

===Squadrons and flights===

Line 261 ⟶ 270:

| rowspan=2|[[700 Naval Air Squadron|700X Naval Air Squadron]]

| rowspan=2|[[Unmanned aerial vehicle|UAV]]

| rowspan=2|[[AeroVironment RQ-20 Puma|AeroVironment Puma AE]], [[Schiebel Camcopter S-100|Peregrine ISR UAV]]<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2020/august/17/200817-700x-three-new-flights|title=Navy's Drone Experts 700X NAS ready to deploy on warships |author= |date=17 August 2020 |website=Royal Navy |access-date=17 August 2020 }}</ref>

| rowspan=2|[[RNAS Culdrose (HMS Seahawk)|RNAS Culdrose]]

| Remotely Piloted Aircraft System shipborne flights<ref name="UAV">{{cite web |url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2014/november/25/141125-700x-scan-eagle|title=X-men take to the Cornish skies |author=|date=25 November 2014 |website=Royal Navy |access-date=25 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141128050626/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2014/november/25/141125-700x-scan-eagle|archive-date=28 November 2014|url-status=live}}</ref>

|rowspan=2|Provides HQ function for Puma AE flights and serves as evaluation unit for any future UAV systems selected by the Royal Navy, including the Peregrine UAV which began trials in mid-2024<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.navylookout.com/peregrine-rotary-wing-uas-conducts-initial-royal-navy-flying-trials-from-hms-lancaster/ |title=Peregrine rotary wing UAS conducts initial Royal Navy flying trials from HMS Lancaster |website=Navy Lookout |date=11 September 2024}}</ref>

|RPAS future trials unit<ref name="UAV" />

Line 280 ⟶ 289:

| [[RAF Shawbury]]

| Basic and advanced multi-engine helicopter training

| Part of 2 Maritime Air Wing (within [[~~Defence~~No. ~~Helicopter~~1 Flying Training School RAF|1 FTS]]) alongside [[No. 660 Squadron AAC|660 Squadron AAC]] and [[No. 202 Squadron RAF|202 Squadron RAF]]

| [[727 Naval Air Squadron]]

Line 304 ⟶ 313:

| Observer grading and training

| [[809 Naval Air Squadron]]

| Fixed-wing

| [[Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II|F-35B Lightning]]

| [[RAF Marham]]

| Carrier strike

| Part of joint [[Lightning Force HQ|Lightning Force]] under [[RAF Air Command]]

| [[814 Naval Air Squadron]]

Line 314 ⟶ 330:

| [[815 Naval Air Squadron]]

| Rotary

| [[AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat|Wildcat HMA2]]<ref name="wildcat" /><ref name="finalwildcat">{{cite web |url=https://navynews.co.uk/archive/news/item/15405 |title=Yeovilton is now totally wild as last new helicopter is delivered |author= |date=26 October 2016 |website~~=Navy News |publisher~~=Navy News |access-date=30 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161030142311/https://navynews.co.uk/archive/news/item/15405 |archive-date=30 October 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/royal-navy-lynx-hma8-fleet-bows-out-of-service-435293/|title=Royal Navy Lynx HMA8 fleet bows out of service|author=|date=17 March 2017|website=Flightglobal|access-date=17 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170317193238/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/royal-navy-lynx-hma8-fleet-bows-out-of-service-435293/|archive-date=17 March 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

| RNAS Yeovilton

| ~~Small~~Attack/ASW (small ship flights)

Line 384 ⟶ 400:

An additional flying unit of the Royal Navy is the FOST Helicopter Support Unit based at [[HMS Raleigh (shore establishment)|HMS ''Raleigh'']] in Cornwall. This unit is not part of the Fleet Air Arm, but is directly under the control of [[Commander Fleet Operational Sea Training|Fleet ~~operational~~Operational Sea Training]], operated by [[British International Helicopters]] (BIH).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://britishinternationalhelicopters.com/services/military|title=British International Helicopters – Royal Navy Contracting}}</ref> BIH also support various Royal Navy and NATO exercises with passenger and freight transfer services and transfers by hoist, for ships exercising both in the Atlantic and the North Sea.

The Royal Navy share both operational and training duties on the Lightning II with the [[Royal Air Force|RAF]] under a banner organisation called the [[Lightning Force HQ|Lightning Force]], which will operate in the same manner as [[Joint Force Harrier]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/uk-lightning-force-stands-f-35b-operations-edwards-afb |title=U.K. 'Lightning Force' Stands Up F-35B Operations At Edwards AFB |last=Norris |first=Guy |date=10 February 2015 |website=Aerospace Daily |access-date=12 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161219171540/http://aviationweek.com/defense/uk-lightning-force-stands-f-35b-operations-edwards-afb |archive-date=19 December 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Line 408 ⟶ 424:

* [[Jeffrey Quill]] (1913–1996): RAF officer and Spitfire test pilot (Vickers-Armstrongs) who served five months with Fleet Air Arm as T/Lt.Cdr RNVR in 1944–1945, helping to develop better carrier deck-landings with the [[Supermarine Seafire]], the naval version of the Spitfire.

* [[Kenneth More]] (1914–1982): actor, including films such as ''[[Reach for the Sky]]'' and ''[[Sink the Bismarck]]''.

* [[Commander (Royal Navy)|Commander]] [[Charles Lamb (Royal Navy officer)|Charles Lamb]] (1914–1981): author of the Second World War Fleet Air Arm autobiography ''War in a Stringbag''.

* [[Vice-Admiral]] Sir [[Peter Compston]] (1915–2000): served briefly in the British Army, then in the RAF for two years, before transferring as a pilot to the Royal Navy in 1938.

* [[Admiral]] Sir (Leslie) [[Derek Empson]] (1918–1997): naval pilot who joined the [[Royal Navy]] as a [[naval rating]]. In his flying career, executed 782 [[aircraft carrier]] landings without a mishap.

Line 421 ⟶ 437:

* Sir [[George Martin]] (1926–2016): record producer for [[The Beatles]].

* [[Admiral of the Fleet]] [[David Benjamin Bathurst|Sir Ben Bathurst]] (1936–): [[First Sea Lord]] 1993–95 and the last [[Royal Navy]] officer to be promoted to five-star rank.

* [[Rear-Admiral]] Sir [[Robert Woodard (Royal Navy officer)|Robert Woodard]] [[Royal Victorian Order|KCVO]] (c.1939–): naval aviator commanded two [[Naval Air Squadron]]s, two warships, a [[Naval Air Station]], the [[HMNB Clyde|Clyde submarine base]] and ended his career as the Flag Officer Royal Yachts 1990–95, the only aviator to command the Royal Yacht {{Ship|HMY|Britannia}}.

* [[Commander (Royal Navy)|Commander]] [[Sharkey Ward|Nigel David "Sharkey" Ward]] (~~1943–~~1943–2024): commanded [[801 Naval Air Squadron]] during the 1982 [[Falklands War]].

* Rear-Admiral [[Iain Henderson (Royal Navy officer)|Iain Henderson]] (c. 1948–): the first officer, and first naval officer, to hold the modern appointment of [[Air Officer Commanding]] [[3 Group]] 2000–01.

* Vice-Admiral Sir [[Adrian Johns]] (c. 1952–) is the first naval aviator to hold the post of [[Governor of Gibraltar]].

* Commander [[Prince Andrew, Duke of York]] (1960–): served during the [[Falklands War]] 1982 and for some years afterwards.

* Captain [[Brian Young (Royal Navy officer)|Brian Young]] (1930–2009): former [[Hawker Sea Hawk|Sea Hawk]] pilot, later commanded the task group for [[Operation Paraquet]] during the Falklands War.

* [[John Cecil Moore]] English pilot, author and conservationist. Born in Tewksbury 1907 died Bristol 1967. Served in WW2

Some 64 naval pilots and nine [[Air observer|observers]] have reached [[flag rank]] in the [[Royal Navy]] and four [[Royal Marines]] pilots general rank in the Royal Marines. Four of these admirals with pilot's 'wings' were air engineering officers ([[test pilots]]) and two were [[supply officer]]s; two of the non-executive officers reached four-star rank: a [[supply officer]], [[Admiral]] Sir Brian Brown (1934–), and a Royal Marine, General Sir [[Peter Whiteley (Royal Marines officer)|Peter Whiteley]] (1920–2016).

Line 435 ⟶ 452:

* [[List of air stations of the Royal Navy]]

* [[List of Fleet Air Arm aircraft squadrons]]

* [[List of aircraft wings of the Royal Navy]]

* [[List of Fleet Air Arm groups]]

* [[List of all naval aircraft current and former of the United Kingdom]]

Line 440 ⟶ 458:

* [[List of active United Kingdom military aircraft]]

* [[Fleet Air Arm Memorial]]

* [[List of Fleet Air Arm battle honours]]

==References==