Aircraft of all shapes and sizes converged on Wattisham Flying Station to celebrate 135 years of history for the base’s units.

Soldiers who fly and maintain the Apache attack helicopter joined with their families and contractors today (Thu 24 Aug) for a celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Army Air Corps and 75th anniversary of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. The base is home to 3 and 4 Regiments Army Air Corps fly the Apache and 7 Aviation Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers

Alongside displays by the Royal Air Force’s Red Arrows aerobatic team and Falcons parachute display team, the highlight was an explosive demonstration by the Attack Helicopter Display Team (AHDT). It showcased the agility and speed of the Apache, with pyrotechnic explosions simulating its gunfire and rockets and real time radio transmission between the pilot and simulated ground forces.

Colonel Chris Bisset, Commander of Wattisham Flying Station, said: “This has been a great occasion that has brought the entire Wattisham community – soldiers, their families and civilian contractors - together to celebrate significant milestones for the Army Air Corps and the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.

“It’s great to see the effort units have put in to make this such a splendid event. It’s vitally important that we look after our soldiers’ families, because they are the foundation from which we build our operational effectiveness.”

Corporal Shaun Cole, a medic from 4 Regiment Army Air Corps, brought his wife Samantha and daughter Evelyn, one, to the event.

Mrs Cole said: “It’s been interesting and enjoyable to come in to the airfield to see a bit more of what Shaun does at work, and there have been some fantastic displays. The Red Arrows were fantastic, but there’s nothing quite like the Apache!”