UK Navy’s Helicopter Support Squadron Wins Engineering Efficiency Award

The Royal Navy’s specialist helicopter support squadron has won a top award for engineering efficiency. Portsmouth-based 1710 Naval Air Squadron – the MOD’s centre of excellence for tri-service helicopter structural repair, modifications and scientific support – was presented with the Royal Royce Efficiency Trophy on August 15th.

The prestigious award is presented annually to the most efficient and effective squadron in the Navy’s Fleet Air Arm.

1710 was praised for completing more than 180 structural repairs on helicopters worldwide and carrying out wear-debris analysis on 19,000-plus samples. Also more than 30 modifications were made to improve operational capability and there were ‘exemplary’ contributions to military aviation safety.

The squadron also produced an online system allowing real-time tracking of all unit repair tasks, saving 3,000 man hours since its introduction in April last year.

At a ceremony at the squadron’s home within Portsmouth Naval Base, its youngest member – 22-year-old Air Engineering Technician Paddy Graham – received the trophy from Simon Baldwin, director of the TP400 engine programme at Rolls Royce.

Mr Baldwin said:

“1710 is doing some sterling work in keeping military helicopters worldwide in the air.

“I do not under estimate the tasks you have to do in delivering great value to the armed forces.

“These days it is all about delivering more for less and you thoroughly deserve this recognition.”

Commodore Graeme Mackay, Assistant Chief of Staff Naval Aviation, said the squadron’s strength was its diverse mix of skilled personnel, including civil servant scientists and servicemen and women from all three services.

He added:

“Each individual has made a huge contribution to this award.

“Having 1710 as a brand that looks after our equipment gives us a great amount of confidence.”

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Press Release, August 16, 2013; Image: Royal Navy