No. 27 Squadron (XXVII Squadron), stationed at RAF Odiham, is a key component of the RAF's Support Helicopter Force, operating the Boeing Chinook. Formed in 1915, the squadron has a unique identity centered around its unofficial name, "The Elephants," and its badge featuring an elephant—a tribute to its first operational aircraft, the Martinsyde Elephant, and its long interwar service in India. Its motto, Quam celerrime ad astra ("With all speed to the stars"), reflects a history of high-tempo operations. Before transitioning to helicopters in 1993, the squadron had a diverse combat heritage, including operating the Avro Vulcan as part of the V-force nuclear deterrent and later flying the Tornado GR1 in a strike role. Today, it provides heavy-lift logistical support for combat, humanitarian, and disaster relief missions worldwide.
