RAF Akrotiri helicopter capability transfers from Griffin to Puma

Helicopter support to British Forces Cyprus has transferred from the Griffin HAR Mk.2 to the Puma HC Mk.2

The official transition to the Puma Force in Cyprus took place on 31 March. The final sortie by a Griffin saw it lead the newly tasked Puma over RAF Akrotiri with Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston and Commander British Forces Air Vice-Marshal Peter Squires aboard.

Since 2003, the Griffin has been an integral part of the capabilities for British Forces supporting joint UK/ Cyprus training and military exercises, and undertaking emergency response and firefighting duties. The Puma team will take over the capabilities from the Griffin from 1 April 2023.

Commander British Forces Cyprus Air Vice-Marshal Peter Squires, said:  “This is an important day for our helicopter capability as we welcome the Puma Force to British Forces Cyprus and bid a fond farewell to the Griffins who have done such incredible work here in Cyprus over many years, including emergency response for casualty evacuations, fighting the annual wildfire scourge – which in the last few years have been the biggest in a generation – and supporting military training and exercises."

Station Commander RAF Benson Group Captain Royston-Airey, said:   “Today sees the culmination of 15 months of hard work, commitment and professionalism. Personnel from Strategic Command, British Forces Cyprus, the Joint Helicopter Command and RAF Benson have delivered a seamless transition of helicopter capability for British Forces in Cyprus.

This is no mean feat, and builds on a legacy of 20 years’ dedicated service by the men and women of the Griffin. The Puma Force looks forward to continuing to support British Forces on this Island.

Today also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the RAF Puma Force who are now established in Benson, Brunei and Cyprus providing Emergency helicopter Response to those in harm’s way across the globe”