Exercise Swift Response...The Apache Version

Written By: Capt Gideon Goldsmith-Lister, 664 Sqn Wksp, 4AAC

Four AH-64 Mk1 Apache Attack Helicopters from 664 Squadron, The Archers, deployed to North Macedonia in May 2022.

The deployment, consisting of a squadron headquarters, REME aviation engineers, aircrew, signallers and groundcrew, established themselves alongside 18(B) Squadron CH47 Chinooks and the US Taskforce LOBOS in their HH-60 Black Hawks. The squadron group was augmented by engineering and logistic support from 7 Avn Sp Bn REME, to bring the total squadron footprint to upwards of 150. Working from Petrovic Air Base, just outside of Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, Aviation Task Force 1 projected air power and air mobility into Krivolac training area. Providing intimate support to 2 Para and conduct deep strike missions under the cover of night, the squadrons engineers and aircrew worked tirelessly to provide aircraft on task for a range of challenging missions.

The exercise consisted of three phases throughout May.

An Apache makes a dust approach into the FARP. A pair of Apaches departs the FARP to join Chinooks on a tasking.

Aftermath of a rainstorm at the FARP.

Enduring temperatures in excess of 30 Degrees and frequent thunderstorms, the Apaches conducted live firing in close cooperation with US ISTAR assets, Royal Artillery light guns and 2 PARA Pathfinders and the wider battlegroup. Following this shaping activity, the main mass of troops were inserted by parachute, fighting through the exercise scenario before culminating in a final attack, supported

once again by Apache and joined by RAF Typhoons deployed from Romania.

For all involved, Ex SWIFT RESPONSE was a varied and challenging deployment that saw the AH-64 Mk1 Apache demonstrate itself as a highly effective and proven asset, that makes decisive and meaningful contributions to the British Army’s ability to operate in challenging environments.

Groundcrew help prepare an Apache at the FARP.