Awards were presented RNAS Culdrose on Monday (June 21) as a naval squadron was praised.

The Flying Tigers – 814 Naval Air Squadron – has been praised for achieving the highest possible degree of operational capability over the past year.

The Navy’s deputy director of aviation, Commodore Nick Walker, gave a presentation praising the squadron as they were awarded inside the squadron’s hangar at RNAS Culdrose, the same site where its Merlin Mk2 helicopters are serviced.

Air Engineering Technician Cunningham-Wood represented the squadron and accepted the award, the Australia Shield, which is awarded annually to the most Operationally Capable squadron.

In an announcement on social media, the squadron’s commanding officer Commander Chris Wood said: "I am very pleased we have received this award.

"This has been a real whole-squadron effort and it recognises the wide breadth of the activity and contribution the squadron makes to defence."

The Flying Tigers' submarine-hunting helicopters operate from the UK and north Atlantic to the Barents Sea.

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The squadron has flights which join frigates to protect the UK’s submarine-based nuclear deterrent as well as covering counter-terrorism responsibilities.

Alongside their operational capability, the Flying Tigers are no strangers to charity work either, having gotten themselves involved in raising money for Children’s Hospice South West back in March.

Following the format of the much-loved TV show, Great British Bake Off, 814 Squadron organised their very own Bake Off competition on base over the course of a few weeks which featured baking challenges set and then judged by the squadron’s Commanding Officer, Cdr Chris Wood.

The winner each week was crowned Tiger of the Week and, in fitting with the squads moniker, got to wear the squadrons tiger onesie, while the baker who came in last place was presented with a literal wooden spoon.

In the process, the Flying Tigers, managed to raise £309 for Children’s Hospice SW - with 2021 also being the 30 anniversary of CHSW's founding.