'Every detail is scrutinised': UK forces training in Northumberland before leading NATO Special Operations
High-flying scenes show UK forces as they prepare to lead NATO Special Operations.
Commandos fast-roped from Chinooks in a dramatic mock attack on an enemy position at Otterburn training camp in Northumberland on Saturday (Jan 31). After two years of intensive preparation and training, including the building of a new NATO Joint Operations Headquarters, the UK will lead the NATO Allied Reaction Force (ARF) Special Operations Component.
Exercise Hyperion Storm is a validation exercise for the Task Groups who will be under the command of the Special Operations Command Centre (SOCC). The MOD said: "Growing in complexity, the rigorous training has built on the skills required for Special Operations to ensure they are fully interoperable with NATO partners.”
"The evaluation process is exacting and demanding; every detail is scrutinised", said Colonel Phil O'Callaghan, a Royal Marines Commando and Deputy Commander of the SOCC, "As a headquarters, we had to meet over 850 performance measures to ensure complete validation for NATO.
“On this exercise, we are here to support and ensure the success of the Maritime, Land and Air Task Groups as they seamlessly work together."