RAF Benson is a front line support helicopter base working within the Joint Helicopter Command. Located in South Oxfordshire. RAF Benson is currently home to the Puma Force and, from October 2015, will be home to the Support Helicopter Operational Conversion Unit. 846 Naval Air Squadron which flies the Merlin. The Puma HC1 first entered service in 1971, and the RAF currently has a fleet of 34 aircraft available to the front-line Support Helicopter Force. The aircraft are operated by Nos 33 and 230 Squadrons, both based at RAF Benson.
Article by Dave Chng
Pictures by Phillip H.