No. 18 (Bomber) Squadron, currently based at RAF Odiham, is a heavyweight champion of the Joint Helicopter Command, operating the Boeing Chinook. Formed in 1915, the squadron proudly retains the "(Bomber)" designation in its title—a nod to its heritage flying aircraft like the Canberra and the Valiant V-bomber during the Cold War. However, it is most famous for its long association with the Chinook helicopter, which it has operated since 1981. This legacy was cemented during the Falklands War, where the squadron's sole surviving Chinook, Bravo November, performed legendary feats of endurance and logistics under fire. Bearing the motto Animo et fide ("With courage and faith"), the squadron today provides critical heavy-lift support for combat, humanitarian aid, and disaster relief operations globally.
