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{{Short description|Flying squadron of the Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm}}
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{{Other uses of|Flying Tigers}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2018}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2018}}
{{Use British English|date=March 2018}}
{{Use British English|date=March 2018}}
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{{Other uses of|Flying Tigers}}
{{Infobox military unit
{{Infobox military unit
| unit_name = 814 Naval Air Squadron
| unit_name = 814 Naval Air Squadron
| native_name =
| native_name =
| image = 814 NAS badge.jpg
| image = File:814_Naval_Air_Squadron_Crest.png
| image_size = 150
| image_size = 175
| alt = Squadron badge
| alt =
| caption = Squadron badge
| caption = Squadron badge
| dates = Dec 1938 – Dec 1942<br>Jul 1944 – Jul 1970<br>Mar 1973 – Dec 2000<br> Oct 2001 – present
| dates = {{hlist|1938–1942|1944–1970|1973–2000|2001 – present}}
| disbanded =
| disbanded =
| country = {{flagicon|UK}} United Kingdom
| country = {{flag|United Kingdom}}
| countries =
| allegiance =
| branch = {{navy|United Kingdom}}
| branch = {{navy|United Kingdom}}
| type = Helicopter flying squadron
| type = Helicopter flying squadron
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| nickname = 'The Flying Tigers'
| nickname = 'The Flying Tigers'
| patron =
| patron =
| motto = ''In hoc signo vinces'' ({{Language with name/for|2=Latin|3=''In this sign you will conquer''}})
| motto = {{Language with name/for|la|In hoc signo vinces|In this sign you will conquer}}
| colors = <!-- or | colours = -->
| colors = <!-- or | colours = -->
| colors_label = <!-- or | colours_label = -->
| colors_label = <!-- or | colours_label = -->
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| website = [https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/our-organisation/the-fighting-arms/fleet-air-arm/helicopter-squadrons/merlin-mk2/814-naval-air-squadron 814 Naval Air Squadron]
| website = [https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/our-organisation/the-fighting-arms/fleet-air-arm/helicopter-squadrons/merlin-mk2/814-naval-air-squadron 814 Naval Air Squadron]
<!-- Commanders -->
<!-- Commanders -->
| current_commander = [[Commander (Royal Navy)|Commander]] Brendan Spoors
| current_commander = [[Commander (Royal Navy)|Commander]] Edward "Dutch" Holland.
| commander1 =
| commander1 =
| commander1_label =
| commander1_label =
| commander2 =
| commander2_label =
| commander3 =
| commander3_label =
| commander4 =
| commander4_label =
| commander5 =
| commander5_label =
| commander6 =
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| commander7 =
| commander7_label =
| commander8 =
| commander8_label =
| commander9 =
| commander9_label =
| notable_commanders =
| notable_commanders =
<!-- Insignia -->
<!-- Insignia -->
| identification_symbol =
| identification_symbol =
| identification_symbol_label =
| identification_symbol_label =
| identification_symbol_2 =
| identification_symbol_2_label =
| identification_symbol_3 =
| identification_symbol_3_label =
| identification_symbol_4 =
| identification_symbol_4_label =
| identification_symbol_5 =
| identification_symbol_5_label =
<!-- Aircraft -->
| aircraft_attack =
| aircraft_bomber =
| aircraft_electronic =
| aircraft_fighter =
| aircraft_helicopter =
| aircraft_helicopter_attack =
| aircraft_helicopter_cargo =
| aircraft_helicopter_multirole =
| aircraft_helicopter_observation =
| aircraft_helicopter_transport =
| aircraft_helicopter_trainer =
| aircraft_helicopter_utility =
| aircraft_interceptor =
| aircraft_patrol =
| aircraft_recon =
| aircraft_trainer =
| aircraft_transport =
| aircraft_tanker =
| aircraft_general =
}}
}}


'''814 Naval Air Squadron''' or '''814 NAS''', nicknamed the '''Flying Tigers''', is a squadron of the [[Royal Navy]] [[Fleet Air Arm]]. It is currently equipped with the [[AgustaWestland AW101|AgustaWestland Merlin HM2]] [[anti-submarine warfare]] helicopter and is based at [[RNAS Culdrose (HMS Seahawk)|Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose]] in [[Cornwall]]. The squadron was formed in December 1938 and has been disbanded and reformed several times.
'''814 Naval Air Squadron''' or '''814 NAS''', nicknamed the '''Flying Tigers''', is a squadron of the [[Royal Navy]] [[Fleet Air Arm]]. It is currently equipped with the [[AgustaWestland AW101|AgustaWestland Merlin HM2]] [[anti-submarine warfare]] helicopter and is based at [[RNAS Culdrose (HMS Seahawk)|Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose]] in [[Cornwall]]. The squadron was formed in December 1938 and has been disbanded and reformed several times.


== Role and equipment ==
== Role and equipment ==
814 Naval Air Squadron operates the [[AgustaWestland AW101|AgustaWestland Merlin HM2]] [[anti-submarine warfare]] (ASW) helicopter and is based at [[RNAS Culdrose (HMS Seahawk)|RNAS Culdrose]] in [[Cornwall]]. In addition to it's ASW role, it has capabilities in [[Piracy#Patrol|anti-piracy operations]], delivery of humanitarian aid, [[Medical evacuation|casualty evacuation]], medium lift under-slung loads (up to 3.8 tonnes), [[search and rescue]], counter drugs and [[maritime patrol]] and security operations. The Merlin can be armed with [[BAE Systems]] [[Sting Ray (torpedo)|Sting Ray]] [[Torpedo|torpedoes]], Mark 11 [[Depth charge|depth charges]] and the [[M2 Browning#AN/M3, GAU-21/A, and M3P|Browning M3m]] .50 calibre machine gun.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/the-equipment/aircraft/helicopters/merlin-mk2|title=Merlin Mk 2|last=|first=|date=|website=Royal Navy|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref> <ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2018/march/29/180329-maritime-merlin-force-getting-ready-for-carrier-strike|title=Maritime Merlin Force Getting Ready For Carrier Strike|last=|first=|date=29 March 2018|website=Royal Navy|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref>
814 Naval Air Squadron operates the [[AgustaWestland AW101|AgustaWestland Merlin HM2]] [[anti-submarine warfare]] (ASW) helicopter and is based at [[RNAS Culdrose (HMS Seahawk)|RNAS Culdrose]] in [[Cornwall]]. In addition to its ASW role, it has capabilities in [[Piracy#Patrol|anti-piracy operations]], delivery of humanitarian aid, [[Medical evacuation|casualty evacuation]], medium lift under-slung loads (up to 3.8 tonnes), [[search and rescue]], counter drugs and [[maritime patrol]] and security operations. The Merlin can be armed with [[BAE Systems]] [[Sting Ray (torpedo)|Sting Ray]] [[torpedo]]es, Mark 11 [[depth charge]]s and the [[M2 Browning#AN/M3, GAU-21/A, and M3P|Browning M3m]] .50 calibre machine gun.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/the-equipment/aircraft/helicopters/merlin-mk2|title=Merlin Mk 2|website=Royal Navy|language=en|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2018/march/29/180329-maritime-merlin-force-getting-ready-for-carrier-strike|title=Maritime Merlin Force Getting Ready For Carrier Strike|date=29 March 2018|website=Royal Navy|language=en|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref>


The squadron has over 200 personnel assigned to it and is the largest ever Merlin Fleet Air Arm squadron.<ref name=":2" />
The squadron has over 200 personnel assigned to it and is the largest ever Merlin Fleet Air Arm squadron.<ref name=":2" />
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=== Second World War ===
=== Second World War ===
814 Naval Air Squadron was formed in December 1938 as a torpedo reconnaissance squadron equipped with six [[Fairey Swordfish|Fairey Swordfish Mk I]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/server/show/nav.2299|title=814 : History|last=|first=|date=|website=Royal Navy|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081013173227/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/server/show/nav.2299|archive-date=13 October 2008|dead-url=|access-date=29 March 2018}}</ref>
814 Naval Air Squadron was formed in December 1938 as a torpedo reconnaissance squadron equipped with six [[Fairey Swordfish|Fairey Swordfish Mk I]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/server/show/nav.2299|title=814 : History|website=Royal Navy|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081013173227/https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/server/show/nav.2299|archive-date=13 October 2008|access-date=29 March 2018}}</ref>


==== West Africa ====
==== West Africa ====
Originally embarked on aircraft carrier [[HMS Ark Royal (91)|HMS ''Ark Royal'']] in January 1939, it transferred to [[HMS Hermes (95)|HMS ''Hermes'']] at the outbreak of the [[Second World War]]. HMS ''Hermes'' set sail for West Africa where the squadron helped search for the German cruiser ''[[German cruiser Admiral Graf Spee|Admiral Graf Spee]]''. It also took part in the [[Battle of Dakar]], damaging the [[Vichy France|Vichy French]] battleship ''[[French battleship Richelieu|Richelieu]]'' on 8 July 1940.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.fleetairarmarchive.net/squadrons/814.html|title=814 squadron|last=|first=|date=|website=Fleet Air Arm Archive|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170302181422/http://www.fleetairarmarchive.net/squadrons/814.html|archive-date=2 March 2017|dead-url=|access-date=29 March 2018}}</ref> Heavy anti-aircraft fire meant the squadron only achieved a single hit, however the battleship was out-of-action for over a year as a result.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/our-organisation/the-fighting-arms/fleet-air-arm/helicopter-squadrons/merlin-mk2/814-naval-air-squadron|title=814 Naval Air Squadron|last=|first=|date=|website=Royal Navy|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=29 March 2018}}</ref> For its participation in the [[Battle of the Atlantic]] during 1940, the squadron received its only battle honour.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.fleetairarmoa.org/fleet-air-arm-battle-honours|title=Current FAA Squadron Battle Honours|last=|first=|date=|website=Fleet Air Arm Officers Association|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=30 March 2018}}</ref>
Originally embarked on aircraft carrier [[HMS Ark Royal (91)|HMS ''Ark Royal'']] in January 1939, it transferred to [[HMS Hermes (95)|HMS ''Hermes'']] at the outbreak of the [[Second World War]]. HMS ''Hermes'' set sail for West Africa where the squadron helped search for the German cruiser ''[[German cruiser Admiral Graf Spee|Admiral Graf Spee]]''. It also took part in the [[Battle of Dakar]], damaging the [[Vichy France|Vichy French]] battleship ''[[French battleship Richelieu|Richelieu]]'' on 8 July 1940.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.fleetairarmarchive.net/squadrons/814.html|title=814 squadron|website=Fleet Air Arm Archive|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170302181422/http://www.fleetairarmarchive.net/squadrons/814.html|archive-date=2 March 2017|access-date=29 March 2018|url-status=usurped}}</ref> Heavy anti-aircraft fire meant the squadron only achieved a single hit, however the battleship was out-of-action for over a year as a result.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/our-organisation/the-fighting-arms/fleet-air-arm/helicopter-squadrons/merlin-mk2/814-naval-air-squadron|title=814 Naval Air Squadron|website=Royal Navy|language=en|access-date=29 March 2018}}</ref> For its participation in the [[Battle of the Atlantic]] during 1940, the squadron received its only battle honour.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.fleetairarmoa.org/fleet-air-arm-battle-honours|title=Current FAA Squadron Battle Honours|website=Fleet Air Arm Officers Association|access-date=30 March 2018}}</ref>


==== Indian Ocean ====
==== Indian Ocean ====
HMS ''Hermes'' and the squadron travelled to the [[Indian Ocean]] in December 1940. The squadron went on to provide support for land forces in [[British Somaliland]] in East Africa, during which five enemy merchant ships were captured. In May 1941, the squadron provided support to the [[Royal Air Force]] (RAF) in [[Iraq]] and later provided convoy protection in the Indian Ocean. In April 1942, while the squadron was ashore, HMS ''Hermes'' was sunk by Japanese aircraft off [[Ceylon]] (now Sri Lanka) whilst transiting between [[Trincomalee]] and the [[Maldives]]. 814 NAS subsequently disbanded during December 1942 at [[Katukurunda Airport|Katukurunda]] in Ceylon.<ref name=":0" /><ref name="Profile">[http://www.fleetairarmarchive.net/squadrons/814.html Fleet Air Arm Archive – 814 Squadron Profile]</ref>
HMS ''Hermes'' and the squadron travelled to the [[Indian Ocean]] in December 1940. The squadron went on to provide support for land forces in [[British Somaliland]] in East Africa, during which five enemy merchant ships were captured. In May 1941, the squadron provided support to the [[Royal Air Force]] (RAF) in [[Iraq]] and later provided convoy protection in the Indian Ocean. In April 1942, while the squadron was ashore, HMS ''Hermes'' was sunk by Japanese aircraft off [[Ceylon]] (now Sri Lanka) whilst transiting between [[Trincomalee]] and the [[Maldives]]. 814 NAS subsequently disbanded during December 1942 at [[Katukurunda Airport|Katukurunda]] in Ceylon.<ref name=":0" /><ref name="Profile">{{Cite web |url=http://www.fleetairarmarchive.net/squadrons/814.html |title=Fleet Air Arm Archive – 814 Squadron Profile |access-date=11 January 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170302181422/http://www.fleetairarmarchive.net/squadrons/814.html |archive-date=2 March 2017 |url-status=usurped }}</ref>


==== Far East ====
==== Far East ====
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The squadron reformed at [[RNAS Prestwick|RNAS Prestwick (HMS ''Gannet'')]] in [[Ayrshire|Aryshire]] during March 1973, equipped with four [[Westland Sea King|Westland Sea King HAS.1]] helicopters, a variant specialising in ASW. It embarked on tours of duty with [[HMS Bulwark (R08)|HMS ''Bulwark'']] and [[HMS Hermes (R12)|HMS ''Hermes'']], assisting with the evacuation of British citizens during the 1974 [[Turkish invasion of Cyprus]].<ref name=":0" /> That same year the squadron received the Australia Shield for its high standard of operational readiness. The Sea King HAS.2 was introduced in 1977, making the squadron the first in the Royal Navy to operate a helicopter with [[passive sonar]] equipment. 814 NAS relocated from Prestwick to [[RNAS Culdrose (HMS Seahawk)|Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose]] in [[Cornwall]] on 9 April 1976 and has since remained there. By the end of 1976 the unit strength had increased to nine helicopters.<ref name=":0" />
The squadron reformed at [[RNAS Prestwick|RNAS Prestwick (HMS ''Gannet'')]] in [[Ayrshire|Aryshire]] during March 1973, equipped with four [[Westland Sea King|Westland Sea King HAS.1]] helicopters, a variant specialising in ASW. It embarked on tours of duty with [[HMS Bulwark (R08)|HMS ''Bulwark'']] and [[HMS Hermes (R12)|HMS ''Hermes'']], assisting with the evacuation of British citizens during the 1974 [[Turkish invasion of Cyprus]].<ref name=":0" /> That same year the squadron received the Australia Shield for its high standard of operational readiness. The Sea King HAS.2 was introduced in 1977, making the squadron the first in the Royal Navy to operate a helicopter with [[passive sonar]] equipment. 814 NAS relocated from Prestwick to [[RNAS Culdrose (HMS Seahawk)|Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose]] in [[Cornwall]] on 9 April 1976 and has since remained there. By the end of 1976 the unit strength had increased to nine helicopters.<ref name=":0" />
[[File:Merlin Helicopters with 814 Naval Air Squadron on HMS Illustrious MOD 45153852.jpg|alt=Two AgustaWestland Merlin HM2 of 814 NAS landing on HMS Illustrious during Exercise Joint Warrior near Scotland in 2012. Note the tiger markings on the aircraft noses.|thumb|Two [[AgustaWestland AW101|AgustaWestland Merlin HM2]] of 814 NAS landing on [[HMS Illustrious (R06)|HMS ''Illustrious'']] during [[Exercise Joint Warrior]] in 2012. Note the tiger markings on the aircraft noses.]]
[[File:Merlin Helicopters with 814 Naval Air Squadron on HMS Illustrious MOD 45153852.jpg|alt=Two AgustaWestland Merlin HM2 of 814 NAS landing on HMS Illustrious during Exercise Joint Warrior near Scotland in 2012. Note the tiger markings on the aircraft noses.|thumb|Two [[AgustaWestland AW101|AgustaWestland Merlin HM2]] of 814 NAS landing on [[HMS Illustrious (R06)|HMS ''Illustrious'']] during [[Exercise Joint Warrior]] in 2012. Note the tiger markings on the aircraft noses.]]
The squadron became a full member of the [[NATO Tiger Association]] in 1979, an organisation with the aim of promoting solidarity between air-forces of [[NATO]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.natotigers.org/tiger-units/814-naval-air-squadron|title=814 Naval Air Squadron|last=|first=|date=|website=Nato Tigers|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=29 March 2018}}</ref>
The squadron became a full member of the [[NATO Tiger Association]] in 1979, an organisation with the aim of promoting solidarity between air-forces of [[NATO]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.natotigers.org/tiger-units/814-naval-air-squadron|title=814 Naval Air Squadron|website=Nato Tigers|language=en|access-date=29 March 2018}}</ref>


By the time of the [[Falklands War]] in April 1982, the upgraded Sea King HAS.5 had entered service with the squadron and in August 1982 it embarked on [[HMS Illustrious (R06)|HMS ''Illustrious'']] for [[South Atlantic]] patrols. Capability was further enhanced in October 1990 when 814 NAS re-equipped with the Sea King HAS.6. This variant of the Sea King saw action with the squadron whilst operating from the carrier [[HMS Invincible (R05)|HMS ''Invincible'']] during the [[Gulf War]] in 1991 and later in the [[Bosnian War]] and [[Kosovo War]]s. In December 2000, the unit was decommissioned for the third time.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" />
By the time of the [[Falklands War]] in April 1982, the upgraded Sea King HAS.5 had entered service with the squadron and in August 1982 it embarked on [[HMS Illustrious (R06)|HMS ''Illustrious'']] for [[South Atlantic]] patrols. Capability was further enhanced in October 1990 when 814 NAS re-equipped with the Sea King HAS.6. This variant of the Sea King saw action with the squadron whilst operating from the carrier [[HMS Invincible (R05)|HMS ''Invincible'']] during the [[Gulf War]] in 1991 and later in the [[Bosnian War]] and [[Kosovo War]]s. In December 2000, the unit was decommissioned for the third time.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" />


=== 21st century ===
=== 21st century ===
The squadron was reformed in October 2001 at RNAS Culdrose, now equipped with the [[AgustaWestland AW101|AgustaWestland Merlin HM1]]. The Merlin replaced the Fleet Air Arm's anti-submarine warfare Sea Kings and is designed to be deployed aboard ships or operate from shore in a variety of maritime roles.<ref name=":1" />
The squadron was reformed in October 2001 at RNAS Culdrose, now equipped with the [[AgustaWestland AW101|AgustaWestland Merlin HM1]]. The Merlin replaced the Fleet Air Arm's anti-submarine warfare Sea Kings and is designed to be deployed aboard ships or operate from shore in a variety of maritime roles.<ref name=":1" />


The squadron's Merlin's have seen operational service aboard [[HMS Illustrious (R06)|HMS ''Illustrious'']], during the Iraq War ([[Operation Telic]]) and in the wider [[Persian Gulf]] area. In May 2012 it was involved in ''[[Exercise Joint Warrior]]'' off the coast of [[Scotland]] again with [[HMS Illustrious (R06)|HMS ''Illustrious'']].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2012/May/24/120524-814-Mongoose|title=Mongoose in Tigers’ Claws|last=|first=|date=24 May 2012|website=Royal Navy|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121003143740/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2012/May/24/120524-814-Mongoose|archive-date=3 October 2012|dead-url=|access-date=31 March 2018}}</ref>
The squadron's Merlin's have seen operational service aboard [[HMS Illustrious (R06)|HMS ''Illustrious'']], during the Iraq War ([[Operation Telic]]) and in the wider [[Persian Gulf]] area. In May 2012 it was involved in ''[[Exercise Joint Warrior]]'' off the coast of [[Scotland]] again with [[HMS Illustrious (R06)|HMS ''Illustrious'']].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2012/May/24/120524-814-Mongoose|title=Mongoose in Tigers' Claws|date=24 May 2012|website=Royal Navy|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121003143740/http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/News-and-Events/Latest-News/2012/May/24/120524-814-Mongoose|archive-date=3 October 2012|access-date=31 March 2018}}</ref>


The [[2012 Summer Olympics|London 2012 Olympics]] saw the squadron deploy to [[RNAS Yeovilton (HMS Heron)|RNAS Yeovilton]] in [[Somerset]] to perform maritime security operations. Yeovilton's location allowed the squadron's Merlins to quickly access [[amphibious transport dock]] [[HMS Bulwark (L15)|HMS ''Bulwark'']], which was acting as the police command unit for the [[Sailing at the 2012 Summer Olympics|Olympic Sailing Regatta]] taking place in [[Weymouth Bay]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-somerset-18900727|title=Squadron moves to RNAS Yeovilton|last=|first=|date=19 July 2012|work=BBC News|access-date=24 April 2018|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-england-dorset-17951458/london-2012-navy-ship-hms-bulwark-in-olympic-exercises|title=Navy ship in Olympic exercises|last=|first=|date=4 May 2012|website=BBC News|language=en-GB|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=24 April 2018}}</ref>
The [[2012 Summer Olympics|London 2012 Olympics]] saw the squadron deploy to [[RNAS Yeovilton (HMS Heron)|RNAS Yeovilton]] in [[Somerset]] to perform maritime security operations. Yeovilton's location allowed the squadron's Merlins to quickly access [[amphibious transport dock]] [[HMS Bulwark (L15)|HMS ''Bulwark'']], which was acting as the police command unit for the [[Sailing at the 2012 Summer Olympics|Olympic Sailing Regatta]] taking place in [[Weymouth Bay]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-somerset-18900727|title=Squadron moves to RNAS Yeovilton|date=19 July 2012|work=BBC News|access-date=24 April 2018|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-england-dorset-17951458/london-2012-navy-ship-hms-bulwark-in-olympic-exercises|title=Navy ship in Olympic exercises|date=4 May 2012|website=BBC News|language=en-GB|access-date=24 April 2018}}</ref>


During December 2014, the Merlin HM1 was replaced with the Merlin HM2.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.squadronprints.com/item/1434_MerlinHM2_0_0_2737_1.html|title=# 1434, Merlin HM2, 814 Sqn|last=|first=|date=|website=Squadron Prints|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref> The upgraded aircraft features a new mission system, [[digital cockpit]], electro-optical camera and [[Bistatic sonar|multi-static sonar system]].
During December 2014, the Merlin HM1 was replaced with the Merlin HM2.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.squadronprints.com/item/1434_MerlinHM2_0_0_2737_1.html|title=# 1434, Merlin HM2, 814 Sqn|website=Squadron Prints|language=en|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref> The upgraded aircraft features a new mission system, [[digital cockpit]], electro-optical camera and [[Bistatic sonar|multi-static sonar system]].


For a two week period in early 2016, two aircraft and over sixty personnel from 814 NAS took part if ''Exercise Dynamic Manta 16'' in the [[Mediterranean Sea|Mediterranean]]. Based at [[Naval Air Station Sigonella]] in [[Sicily|Sicilly]], the unit worked alongside eight other NATO nations during the major anti-submarine warfare exercise.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2016/march/09/160309-814nas-flying-tigers|title=Crouching Tiger, Hidden Submarine|last=|first=|date=9 March 2016|website=Royal Navy|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref> The squadron returned for the 2017 exercise, when they were again based at Sigonella and the 2018 exercise, when they were based at [[Catania Fontanarossa|Catania - Fontanarossa Naval Air Station]], also in Sicily.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2017/march/17/170317-royal-navy-helicopter-captures-mount-etna-eruption-using-submarine-hunting-kit|title=Royal Navy helicopter captures Mount Etna eruption using submarine hunting kit|last=|first=|date=17 March 2017|website=Royal Navy|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2018/march/09/180309-sicilian-submarine-hunt-is-on-for-royal-navy-aviators|title=Sicilian sub-hunt is on for Royal Navy Aviators|last=|first=|date=9 March 2018|website=Royal Navy|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref>
For a two-week period in early 2016, two aircraft and over sixty personnel from 814 NAS took part if ''Exercise Dynamic Manta 16'' in the [[Mediterranean Sea|Mediterranean]]. Based at [[Naval Air Station Sigonella]] in [[Sicily|Sicilly]], the unit worked alongside eight other NATO nations during the major anti-submarine warfare exercise.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2016/march/09/160309-814nas-flying-tigers|title=Crouching Tiger, Hidden Submarine|date=9 March 2016|website=Royal Navy|language=en|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref> The squadron returned for the 2017 exercise, when they were again based at Sigonella and the 2018 exercise, when they were based at [[Catania Fontanarossa|Catania - Fontanarossa Naval Air Station]], also in Sicily.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2017/march/17/170317-royal-navy-helicopter-captures-mount-etna-eruption-using-submarine-hunting-kit|title=Royal Navy helicopter captures Mount Etna eruption using submarine hunting kit|date=17 March 2017|website=Royal Navy|language=en|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2018/march/09/180309-sicilian-submarine-hunt-is-on-for-royal-navy-aviators|title=Sicilian sub-hunt is on for Royal Navy Aviators|date=9 March 2018|website=Royal Navy|language=en|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref>


The aircraft and personnel of [[829 Naval Air Squadron]], also based at RNAS Culdrose, merged with 814 NAS in March 2018, creating the largest ever Merlin Fleet Air Arm squadron.<ref name=":2" />
The aircraft and personnel of [[829 Naval Air Squadron]], also based at RNAS Culdrose, merged with 814 NAS in March 2018, creating the largest ever Merlin Fleet Air Arm squadron.<ref name=":2" />


==Aircraft operated==
==Aircraft operated==
The squadron has operated a variety of different aircraft and variants.{{sfn|Sturtivant, Ballance|1994|p=174}}
The squadron has operated a variety of different aircraft and variants.{{sfn|Sturtivant|Ballance|1994|p=174}}
{{Div col|cols=2}}
{{Div col|colwidth=30em}}
* [[Fairey Swordfish|Fairey Swordfish Mk I]] (1938–1942)
* [[Fairey Swordfish|Fairey Swordfish Mk I]] (1938–1942)
* [[Fairey Barracuda|Fairey Barracuda Mk II]]
* [[Fairey Barracuda|Fairey Barracuda Mk II]]
Line 152: Line 107:
{{div col end}}
{{div col end}}


<gallery caption="A selection of aircraft operated by 814 Naval Air Squadron" widths= 150 heights= 150 mode=packed>
<gallery caption="A selection of aircraft operated by 814 Naval Air Squadron" heights="150" mode="packed">
File:Fairey Swordfish Mk I torpedo bombers of the Fleet Air Arm on a training flight from Crail in Scotland, 1940. A3532.jpg|[[Fairey Swordfish|Fairey Swordfish Mk I]] torpedo bombers of the type operated by the squadron.
File:Fairey Swordfish Mk I torpedo bombers of the Fleet Air Arm on a training flight from Crail in Scotland, 1940. A3532.jpg|[[Fairey Swordfish|Fairey Swordfish Mk I]] torpedo bombers of the type operated by the squadron.
File:The Royal Navy during the Second World War A28846.jpg|A [[Fairey Barracuda|Fairey Barracuda Mk II]] of 814 NAS, showing the observer's window, the distinctive dive brakes, the high tail plane, and one of the lugs in which the accelerator / catapult engages.
File:The Royal Navy during the Second World War A28846.jpg|A [[Fairey Barracuda|Fairey Barracuda Mk II]] of 814 NAS, showing the observer's window, the distinctive dive brakes, the high tail plane, and one of the lugs in which the accelerator / catapult engages.
File:Fairey Firefly AS5, UK - Navy AN1966871.jpg|A [[Fairey Firefly|Fairey Firefly AS.5]] which served wuth 814 NAS, seen in 1980 during its time with the [[Royal Navy Historic Flight]].
File:Fairey Firefly AS5, UK - Navy AN1966871.jpg|A [[Fairey Firefly|Fairey Firefly AS.5]] which served with 814 NAS, seen in 1980 during its time with the [[Royal Navy Historic Flight]].
File:Westland Wessex HAS3 (WS-58), UK - Navy AN1323348.jpg|A Westland Wessex HAS.3
File:Westland Wessex HAS3 (WS-58), UK - Navy AN1323348.jpg|A Westland Wessex HAS.3
File:Westland Sea King HAS6, UK - Navy AN1377450.jpg|A 814 NAS [[Westland Sea King|Westland Sea King HAS.6]] seen at [[RAF Mildenhall]] in 1986.
File:Westland Sea King HAS6, UK - Navy AN1377450.jpg|An 814 NAS [[Westland Sea King|Westland Sea King HAS.6]] seen at [[RAF Mildenhall]] in 1986.
File:EHI EH-101 Merlin HM1 (Mk111), UK - Navy AN0887690.jpg| An [[AgustaWestland AW101|AgustaWestland Merlin HM1]] of 814 NAS seen arriving in 'tiger' stripes at the 2005 [[Royal International Air Tattoo]].
File:EHI EH-101 Merlin HM1 (Mk111), UK - Navy AN0887690.jpg| An [[AgustaWestland AW101|AgustaWestland Merlin HM1]] of 814 NAS seen arriving in 'tiger' stripes at the 2005 [[Royal International Air Tattoo]].
</gallery>
</gallery>
Line 168: Line 123:


=== Affiliations ===
=== Affiliations ===
The following organisations are affiliated with the squadron.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/our-organisation/the-fighting-arms/fleet-air-arm/helicopter-squadrons/merlin-mk2/814-naval-air-squadron/814-affiliations|title=814 NAS – Affiliations|last=|first=|date=|website=Royal Navy|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=29 March 2018}}</ref>
The following organisations are affiliated with the squadron.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/our-organisation/the-fighting-arms/fleet-air-arm/helicopter-squadrons/merlin-mk2/814-naval-air-squadron/814-affiliations|title=814 NAS – Affiliations|website=Royal Navy|language=en|access-date=29 March 2018}}</ref>
* [[Devon and Cornwall Police|Devon and Cornwall Constabulary]]
* [[Devon and Cornwall Police|Devon and Cornwall Constabulary]]
* [[Fleet Air Arm]] Association Harlow Branch
* [[Worshipful Company of Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers|The Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers]]
* [[Worshipful Company of Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers|The Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers]]
* [[Leicester Tigers]] (Rugby team)
* [[Leicester Tigers]] (Rugby team)
* [[NATO Tiger Association]]
* [[NATO Tiger Association]]
* [[University of Southampton|Southampton University]] [[University Royal Naval Unit|Royal Naval Unit]]
* Solent [[University Royal Naval Unit]]
* [[Royal Cornwall Hospital|Treliske Hospital]] (Royal Cornwall Hospital)
* [[Royal Cornwall Hospital|Treliske Hospital]] (Royal Cornwall Hospital)
* [[Erewash Borough Council]] (Derbyshire)


==References==
==References==
Line 183: Line 138:


===Bibliography===
===Bibliography===
*{{cite book |last1=Sturtivant |first1=R |last2=Ballance |first2=T |title=The Squadrons of The Fleet Air Arm |year=1994 |publisher=Air-Britain (Historians) Ltd |location=[[Tonbridge]], [[Kent]], UK |isbn=0-85130-223-8 |ref= {{harvid|Sturtivant, Ballance|1994}} }}
*{{cite book |last1=Sturtivant |first1=R |last2=Ballance |first2=T |title=The Squadrons of The Fleet Air Arm |year=1994 |publisher=Air-Britain (Historians) Ltd |location=[[Tonbridge]], [[Kent]], UK |isbn=0-85130-223-8 }}


==External links==
==External links==

Latest revision as of 21:28, 20 December 2024

For other uses of "Flying Tigers", see Flying Tigers (disambiguation).

814 Naval Air Squadron
Squadron badge
Active
  • 1938–1942
  • 1944–1970
  • 1973–2000
  • 2001 – present
Country United Kingdom
Branch Royal Navy
TypeHelicopter flying squadron
RoleAnti submarine warfare
Part ofFleet Air Arm
Home stationRNAS Culdrose
Nickname(s)'The Flying Tigers'
Motto(s)In hoc signo vinces (Latin for 'In this sign you will conquer')
AircraftAgustaWestland Merlin HM2
Battle honoursAtlantic (1940)
Website814 Naval Air Squadron
Commanders
Current
commander		Commander Edward "Dutch" Holland.

814 Naval Air Squadron or 814 NAS, nicknamed the Flying Tigers, is a squadron of the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm. It is currently equipped with the AgustaWestland Merlin HM2 anti-submarine warfare helicopter and is based at Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose in Cornwall. The squadron was formed in December 1938 and has been disbanded and reformed several times.

Role and equipment

[edit]

814 Naval Air Squadron operates the AgustaWestland Merlin HM2 anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopter and is based at RNAS Culdrose in Cornwall. In addition to its ASW role, it has capabilities in anti-piracy operations, delivery of humanitarian aid, casualty evacuation, medium lift under-slung loads (up to 3.8 tonnes), search and rescue, counter drugs and maritime patrol and security operations. The Merlin can be armed with BAE Systems Sting Ray torpedoes, Mark 11 depth charges and the Browning M3m .50 calibre machine gun.[1][2]

The squadron has over 200 personnel assigned to it and is the largest ever Merlin Fleet Air Arm squadron.[2]

History

[edit]
A Fairey Barracuda Mk II of 814 NAS, flying over HMS Venerable and an attendant destroyer, the Italian Alfredo Oriani.
A Fairey Barracuda Mk II of 814 NAS, flying over HMS Venerable and an attendant destroyer, the Italian Alfredo Oriani.

Second World War

[edit]

814 Naval Air Squadron was formed in December 1938 as a torpedo reconnaissance squadron equipped with six Fairey Swordfish Mk I.[3]

West Africa

[edit]

Originally embarked on aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal in January 1939, it transferred to HMS Hermes at the outbreak of the Second World War. HMS Hermes set sail for West Africa where the squadron helped search for the German cruiser Admiral Graf Spee. It also took part in the Battle of Dakar, damaging the Vichy French battleship Richelieu on 8 July 1940.[4] Heavy anti-aircraft fire meant the squadron only achieved a single hit, however the battleship was out-of-action for over a year as a result.[5] For its participation in the Battle of the Atlantic during 1940, the squadron received its only battle honour.[6]

Indian Ocean

[edit]

HMS Hermes and the squadron travelled to the Indian Ocean in December 1940. The squadron went on to provide support for land forces in British Somaliland in East Africa, during which five enemy merchant ships were captured. In May 1941, the squadron provided support to the Royal Air Force (RAF) in Iraq and later provided convoy protection in the Indian Ocean. In April 1942, while the squadron was ashore, HMS Hermes was sunk by Japanese aircraft off Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) whilst transiting between Trincomalee and the Maldives. 814 NAS subsequently disbanded during December 1942 at Katukurunda in Ceylon.[3][7]

Far East

[edit]

The squadron reformed at RNAS Stretton in Cheshire during July 1944, now equipped with the Fairey Barracuda Mk II, a torpedo and dive bomber. It embarked on HMS Venerable in March 1945 and headed to the Far East for patrols, although seeing no action for the rest of the war.[3][7]

Cold War

[edit]

In post-war years, the squadron was equipped with the Fairey Firefly, Grumman Avenger and Fairey Gannet in the anti-submarine warfare (ASW) role on-board HMS Vengeance, receiving the Boyd Trophy for its high standard of operational efficiency in 1951.[3]

In 1960, the squadron continued in the ASW role and was equipped with its first helicopter, the Westland Whirlwind HAS.7, later replaced with the Westland Wessex HAS.1.[5] The Wessex HAS.3 was introduced in 1967, providing the squadron with its first radar-equipped helicopter. During this time, the squadron was embarked on HMS Victorious and HMS Hermes to patrol east of the Suez. In 1968, 814 NAS was again awarded the Boyd Trophy, on this occasion for achieving a high state of operational effectiveness at sea with the Wessex HAS.3. The squadron decommissioned for a second time in July 1970.[3]

Sea King

[edit]

The squadron reformed at RNAS Prestwick (HMS Gannet) in Aryshire during March 1973, equipped with four Westland Sea King HAS.1 helicopters, a variant specialising in ASW. It embarked on tours of duty with HMS Bulwark and HMS Hermes, assisting with the evacuation of British citizens during the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus.[3] That same year the squadron received the Australia Shield for its high standard of operational readiness. The Sea King HAS.2 was introduced in 1977, making the squadron the first in the Royal Navy to operate a helicopter with passive sonar equipment. 814 NAS relocated from Prestwick to Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose in Cornwall on 9 April 1976 and has since remained there. By the end of 1976 the unit strength had increased to nine helicopters.[3]

Two AgustaWestland Merlin HM2 of 814 NAS landing on HMS Illustrious during Exercise Joint Warrior near Scotland in 2012. Note the tiger markings on the aircraft noses.
Two AgustaWestland Merlin HM2 of 814 NAS landing on HMS Illustrious during Exercise Joint Warrior in 2012. Note the tiger markings on the aircraft noses.

The squadron became a full member of the NATO Tiger Association in 1979, an organisation with the aim of promoting solidarity between air-forces of NATO.[8]

By the time of the Falklands War in April 1982, the upgraded Sea King HAS.5 had entered service with the squadron and in August 1982 it embarked on HMS Illustrious for South Atlantic patrols. Capability was further enhanced in October 1990 when 814 NAS re-equipped with the Sea King HAS.6. This variant of the Sea King saw action with the squadron whilst operating from the carrier HMS Invincible during the Gulf War in 1991 and later in the Bosnian War and Kosovo Wars. In December 2000, the unit was decommissioned for the third time.[3][5]

21st century

[edit]

The squadron was reformed in October 2001 at RNAS Culdrose, now equipped with the AgustaWestland Merlin HM1. The Merlin replaced the Fleet Air Arm's anti-submarine warfare Sea Kings and is designed to be deployed aboard ships or operate from shore in a variety of maritime roles.[5]

The squadron's Merlin's have seen operational service aboard HMS Illustrious, during the Iraq War (Operation Telic) and in the wider Persian Gulf area. In May 2012 it was involved in Exercise Joint Warrior off the coast of Scotland again with HMS Illustrious.[9]

The London 2012 Olympics saw the squadron deploy to RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset to perform maritime security operations. Yeovilton's location allowed the squadron's Merlins to quickly access amphibious transport dock HMS Bulwark, which was acting as the police command unit for the Olympic Sailing Regatta taking place in Weymouth Bay.[10][11]

During December 2014, the Merlin HM1 was replaced with the Merlin HM2.[12] The upgraded aircraft features a new mission system, digital cockpit, electro-optical camera and multi-static sonar system.

For a two-week period in early 2016, two aircraft and over sixty personnel from 814 NAS took part if Exercise Dynamic Manta 16 in the Mediterranean. Based at Naval Air Station Sigonella in Sicilly, the unit worked alongside eight other NATO nations during the major anti-submarine warfare exercise.[13] The squadron returned for the 2017 exercise, when they were again based at Sigonella and the 2018 exercise, when they were based at Catania - Fontanarossa Naval Air Station, also in Sicily.[14][15]

The aircraft and personnel of 829 Naval Air Squadron, also based at RNAS Culdrose, merged with 814 NAS in March 2018, creating the largest ever Merlin Fleet Air Arm squadron.[2]

Aircraft operated

[edit]

The squadron has operated a variety of different aircraft and variants.[16]

Squadron traditions and affiliations

[edit]
A Westland Sea King HAS6 of 814 NAS in a tiger colour-scheme, representing the unit's status as a member of the NATO Tiger Association.
A Westland Sea King HAS6 of 814 NAS in a tiger colour-scheme, representing the unit's status as a member of the NATO Tiger Association.

Traditions

[edit]

The squadron nickname is 'the Flying Tigers' and its badge features a tiger's head, representing its membership of the NATO Tiger Association.

Affiliations

[edit]

The following organisations are affiliated with the squadron.[17]

References

[edit]

Citations

[edit]
  1. ^ "Merlin Mk 2". Royal Navy. Retrieved 23 April 2018.
  2. ^ a b c "Maritime Merlin Force Getting Ready For Carrier Strike". Royal Navy. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 23 April 2018.
  3. ^ a b c d e f g h "814 : History". Royal Navy. Archived from the original on 13 October 2008. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  4. ^ "814 squadron". Fleet Air Arm Archive. Archived from the original on 2 March 2017. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  5. ^ a b c d "814 Naval Air Squadron". Royal Navy. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  6. ^ "Current FAA Squadron Battle Honours". Fleet Air Arm Officers Association. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  7. ^ a b "Fleet Air Arm Archive – 814 Squadron Profile". Archived from the original on 2 March 2017. Retrieved 11 January 2009.
  8. ^ "814 Naval Air Squadron". Nato Tigers. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  9. ^ "Mongoose in Tigers' Claws". Royal Navy. 24 May 2012. Archived from the original on 3 October 2012. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  10. ^ "Squadron moves to RNAS Yeovilton". BBC News. 19 July 2012. Retrieved 24 April 2018.
  11. ^ "Navy ship in Olympic exercises". BBC News. 4 May 2012. Retrieved 24 April 2018.
  12. ^ "# 1434, Merlin HM2, 814 Sqn". Squadron Prints. Retrieved 23 April 2018.
  13. ^ "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Submarine". Royal Navy. 9 March 2016. Retrieved 23 April 2018.
  14. ^ "Royal Navy helicopter captures Mount Etna eruption using submarine hunting kit". Royal Navy. 17 March 2017. Retrieved 23 April 2018.
  15. ^ "Sicilian sub-hunt is on for Royal Navy Aviators". Royal Navy. 9 March 2018. Retrieved 23 April 2018.
  16. ^ Sturtivant & Ballance 1994, p. 174.
  17. ^ "814 NAS – Affiliations". Royal Navy. Retrieved 29 March 2018.

Bibliography

[edit]
[edit]
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