No. 60 Squadron (LX Squadron), currently stationed at RAF Shawbury, plays a pivotal role in the future of UK military aviation as part of No. 1 Flying Training School. Operating the Airbus H135 Juno HT1, the squadron is responsible for the advanced rotary-wing training of helicopter pilots and crewmen from the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, and Army Air Corps. Formed in 1916, the unit has a legendary combat pedigree; during the First World War, it was a prolific fighter squadron that counted two Victoria Cross recipients, including the famous ace Billy Bishop, among its ranks. Its long service on the North-West Frontier of India during the interwar years is commemorated by the Markhor (a wild mountain goat) on its badge. This heritage of operating in challenging environments is reflected in its motto, Per ardua ad aethera tendo ("I strive through difficulties to the sky").
