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RAF bids farewell to Puma Helicopter
RAF Benson recently waved off Puma helicopters for the last time as they embarked on their farewell flight around the UK. The Puma helicopter has been the work horse of the Royal Air Force for over five decades.
Introduced into service in 1971, the Puma quickly became a key asset, known for its agility, speed, and versatility. Over the years, it has been deployed in various Operations and humanitarian missions.
In recent history it has seen service in Kenya 2009 to 2011 where they supported UK exercises and in Afghanistan 2015 to 2021. It has also provided support in the Caribbean as a part of Operation RUMAN after Hurricane Irma in September 2017. During COVID it took part in Operation RESCRIPT in 2020, providing vital aid to those in need. Up until March 2025, it has been involved in enduring operations in Cyprus and Brunei.
“This flight route is via various locations of significance.
“Each place reflects the rich history and contributions that the Puma has made during its time in service. The aircraft has been a cornerstone of global Defence Operations for more than five decades. We want to celebrate its contribution to supporting our people around the world over the past 54 years,” Wing Commander Nick Monahan Officer Commanding 33 Squadron & Puma Force Commander, said in a RAF news release.
Farewell Tour
To name a few, the Farewell Tour took the Puma to several key locations:
- RAF Benson: The home base for the Puma fleet, RAF Benson, has been the heart of operations and training for these helicopters. The farewell flight’s first and final stop was a tribute to the countless hours of service and training conducted here.
- Northern Ireland: The Puma played a crucial role during the Troubles, providing essential support and transport. The visit to Northern Ireland was a poignant reminder of the helicopter’s contributions to peacekeeping efforts.
- Kensington Palace: To honour Prince Michael of Kent’s distinguished connection to RAF Benson and the Puma fleet.
- Cranwell, Halton, Honington, Shawbury and Stanta training area: All sights of significance for the Aircrew that have intertwined history with the Helicopter.
- Boscombe Down and Airbus Kidlington: Sites for significance for the maintenance and operational capabilities of the fleet.
HC.Mk 2
The Puma HC.Mk 2 [the latest version of the Puma] medium support helicopter operated under Joint Aviation Command (JAC) control. The aircraft was used in a variety of combat roles, including the tactical movement of troops, weapons, ammunition and stores on the battlefield, as well as the extraction of casualties and in response to medical emergencies on the frontline. It was also employed during non-combatant evacuations, and humanitarian and disaster relief operations.
The aircraft was capable of carrying 16 passengers, 12 fully equipped troops or up to 2 tonnes of freight, the latter moved as internal cargo or underslung, or a mix of the two. It could also be fitted with up to six stretchers for operations in the casualty evacuation or medical emergency response team role.
With more powerful engines, greater range than the Puma HC.Mk 1 and a modern digital cockpit, the Puma HC.Mk 2 was capable of operating in harsh environments, lifting troops, supplies and humanitarian aid wherever needed, especially under hot-and-high conditions. The aircraft could be prepared for transport by C-17 in just four hours, flown across the globe, and be rebuilt and returned to flying just as quickly at the destination, making it a highly mobile, deployable battlefield support helicopter.
RAF Puma Helicopter: the end of an era
As the helicopter flew over these historic sites, it symbolised the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for the RAF. The Puma’s drawdown marks the transition to newer technologies, but its legacy will continue to inspire future generations of aviators. For those who have flown and engineered her for over 50 years this is a poignant moment and a chance to reflect on their dedication and service.
The retirement of the Puma at this point will enable avoidance of additional in-service costs and focus efforts on introducing Puma’s replacement as quickly as possible. New H145 helicopter will enter service from 2026 and be deployed in both Cyprus and Brunei in support of British forces.
The farewell flight was not just a goodbye but a celebration of the Puma’s remarkable journey and the countless lives it touched and saved over its distinguished career.
“We recognise and celebrate the dedication of everyone who has served on or supported Puma operations over the last five decades,” Wing Commander Alice Tierney Station Commander, RAF Benson.
Photo credit: Crown Copyright
