A pair of Chinook helicopters are back in the UK after a successful summer in which they took part in firefighting operations.
Helicopters supported the Republic of Cyprus in July, dropping 450 tons of water in the biggest fire in fifty years.
According to a report by Forces News, the 1310 Flying Squadron was deployed to RAF Akrotiri at the beginning of the year, replacing the decommissioned Puma helicopter as the base's new aerial firefighting force.
The crew is now returning to RAF Odiham in Hampshire, as this year's fire season has officially ended.
Captain Alan Rose, Commander of 1310 Squadron, said that "Cyprus is a wonderful place to do business. I am sad that this mission is coming to an end, but I can't wait to return home. The fact that we are back in time for Christmas is an added bonus."
The 1310 Squadron collaborated with the Permanent Air Firefighting and Rescue Unit of RAF Akrotiri, Squadron 84, one of the oldest in the Royal Air Force.
Using a "Bambi Bucket" bucket, attached to the bottom of the CH-47 helicopter, the heavy helicopter can collect water from the sea or from tanks and drop it directly onto the fire.
This new capability was adopted earlier this year to fill the gap between the Puma HC2 and the upcoming Jupiter H145.
The new RAF firefighting helicopter will be used in Cyprus and Brunei, with its entry into service scheduled for 2026.
However, Chinooks will return to Cyprus ahead of the next fire season, which begins on April 1.
Until then, RAF Akrotiri will remain without an air force, while the Ministry of Defence's Defence Fire and Rescue Service will continue to respond to incidents within British Bases and, if requested, in the wider Republic of Cyprus, with ground units.
Forest fires are a seasonal threat in Cyprus, as summer temperatures often exceed 40°C.
