HMS Edinburgh in Cape Town
Date: 16 November 2006
The Royal Navy Destroyer HMS Edinburgh (D97) arrived in Cape Town yesterday and is moored at the V&A Waterfront until 21 November when she will depart for Simons Town.
On board was Lynx HAS.3S XZ229 (EB/411) from 815 Sqn, Edinburgh Flt, RN, Yeovilton. Incidentally, this Lynx is reputed to be the second oldest Lynx in RN service, with over 30 years service. There is only 300 hours left on the airframe and so it will, in all likelihood, be retired next year.
The Super Lynx 300 has been chosen by South Africa for operation with 22 Squadron, SAAF, aboard the new Valour Class frigates and the first of four ordered will be arriving in South Africa early next year.
In order to prepare for the arrival of the new aircraft, personnel from HMS Edinburgh will be aboard SAS Amatola while the Lynx will perform numerous approaches and landings in order to prepare the Amatola crew and develop operational procedures and doctrines. The opportunity wil lalso be taken to conduct Anti Air Warfare drills with 2 Squadron who are at the Cape for theor weapons camp.
SAairforce.co.za was invited on board to take some photos.
Welcome LAC Griffiths and the HMS Edinburgh crew, enjoy your stay in Cape Town!
Report by Dean Wingrin
