RN rescue hostages during training with Dutch police

Royal Navy pilots have been involved in hostage rescues in the North Sea during boarding operations with Dutch allies as part of intensive mission training.

The Commando Helicopter Force’s 846 Naval Air Squadron took their Commando Merlin Mk4 helicopters to Schiphol International Airport to work with the Dutch Police Aviation Support Unit and the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps.

Their training culminated in two maritime interdictions – military parlance for boarding operations – missions to rescue hostages from a Dutch coastguard ship.

“Training with our NATO allies is always invaluable as we get to see a familiar challenge tackled in a different way,” said Lieutenant Commander David Houghton-Barnes of 846 NAS.

“Fast roping to a moving ship is a demanding task, and it was impressive to see everyone working together to safely interdict the target vessel. Most importantly, it reinforced our lasting friendships across the Channel so we can continue to learn from each other and collectively keep our sea lanes safe.”