Patience is Key

By Jospeh Evans

At the start of November 2022 I took a pursuit to my local Airfield with hope of trying to catch some military Helicopter action. The RAF and Army occasionally use Shobdon Aerodrome as a refuel location, as the Airfield has seen a growth in military Heli activity I thought I would chance it and see what would happen.

The day started off being really quiet with gusts of strong wind and a cold chill. Little activity was happening apart from some local flights and an R22 coming in, this did give me the chance to practice but it was quite windy. I then decided to wait in my car for a bit to warm up.

The thing about Military Aviation is that you may see something or you don’t so having the right patience and enthusiasm in this this hobby is key.

Around lunchtime I had been there for 4 hours, nothing had come in. I sat in the car debating weather i should go home or stay longer, this was the hardest part. While on 360 radar checking for Helis, I noticed that an RAF Chinook was heading westbound in North Shropshire to Wales. I then decided I would stay longer hopeing that it might fly this way.

At approximately 14:00 a familiar callsign called up on the scanner, Shobdon Information “ just confirming the Callsign is VORTEX 254”
I was so happy as it was the same Chinook I was tracking earlier on 😁

Within seconds I ran out the Car, Fired my Camera up and slotted into position  till I had visual.

The distinctive sound of the Chinooks Blade Slap echoed around me as it approached low and slow like an Eagle approaching its nest.

RAF Chinook HC.6A ZA674, 28 Squadron RAF Benson.

The Chinook was from RAFs 28 Squadron which is known as the OCU (Operational Conversion Unit) based at RAF Benson. 28 train student Aircrew the key skills they need before being posted to a frontline Squadron if they make the grade.

An important aspect of training to become a Chinook pilot is learning to work well with a Crew. Seen here one of the Crewman keeps a good lookout of the Hatch giving the pilot key instructions on his position relative to the ground.

As it flew away to the far right of the Airfield the fuel truck came past as it was about to conduct a Rotors running refuel. It’s done away from the public due to the severity and risk involved in the task.

After a long day there I was so happy and excited that I’ve caught some military Heli action.

Here are my spotting tips

1. Always be Patient
2. A Scanner is a must have item, i recommend the Uniden UBC 125 XLT with a Watson W-881 Antenna.
3. 360 Radar and ADSB Exchange are great tracking Apps.
4. Most importantly enjoy yourself, don’t worry if you don’t get great images. The main thing is to enjoy this great Hobby and Pursuit.