#1807 Air Wing Support Squadron, Chinook HC6 print
Description
Squadron Prints Lithograph No. 1807 - ZK550, Chinook HC6, Air Wing Support Squadron, RAF Odiham | Air Wing Engineerning and Logistics.
Air Wing Support Squadron (AWSS) at RAF Odiham is the backbone of the UK Chinook Force, enabling the operational effectiveness of 7, 18, and 27 Squadrons at RAF Odiham and 28 Squadron at RAF Benson. Through integrated engineering, logistics, and training support, AWSS ensures the delivery of serviceable aircraft, technical expertise, engineering training, survival equipment, airfield support, and component maintenance. Responsible for every facet of Chinook support - from deep maintenance and avionics to survival equipment - AWSS guarantees the airworthiness and mission-readiness of the CH-47 fleet across global commitments. Previously known as Engineering Support Squadron (ESS) and once the largest Squadron in the RAF, the squadron became AWSS in 2025 during RAF Odiham’s transition to an Air Wing, incorporating the Chinook Maintenance School (ChMS) to strengthen its role as the central hub for Chinook engineering training. At the squadron’s core is Chinook Maintenance Flight (CMF), a joint RAF and Boeing Defence UK (BDUK) team operating under the Whole Force Approach (WFA). CMF operates four dedicated maintenance lines that conduct scheduled maintenance tasks, including Primary and Primary Star packages on behalf of the Chinook Flying Squadrons Based in Hangar 2 at RAF Odiham. These teams also handle heavy rectification repairs, post-deployment recovery, and out-of-phase maintenance. The maintenance lines function as an integrated workforce, with RAF and BDUK personnel working under both the Military Maintenance Organisation (MMO) and the Approved Maintenance Organisation (AMO). Support is further enhanced by the Station Structures also under CMF, which delivers expert structural repairs, and the Early Failure Detection Centre (EFDC) and Health & Usage Centre (HUC), which monitor aircraft condition via HUMS and debris analysis. These teams deploy with the Flying Sqns to operational theatres and also heavily support and manage the US-based maintenance periods at Ex WCONUS. The Survival Equipment Flight (SEF) is responsible for equipping all aircrew with critical life-saving equipment, (PPE, Aircrew Equipment and flying clothing) supporting all Chinook Squadrons, and deploying worldwide. Structured across Aircrew Equipment Assembly Bays, a Training & Standards Cell, and a Main Bay, SEF ensures operational availability of vital equipment from night vision goggles to high-altitude breathing apparatus. Component Engineering Flight (CEF) consists of the Avionics, Role, Mechanical and Blade Bays. The AV Bay provides depth maintenance and modification support for CH-47 avionics and electrical components. It also manages the Forces TMEC and PTT, co-ordinating its use and providing specialist advice. The Role Bay provides depth maintenance to ensure the force has sufficient levels of role equipment to meet the Forces training and operational commitments. The Mechanical and Blade Bays fall under the Through Life Customer Support (TLCS) agreement working alongside BDUK to provide depth maintenance and modification support for CH-47 hydraulic, transmission components and rotor blades. Until 2025, AWSS also included Armament Engineering Flight (AEF) and General Engineering Flight (GEF), which were transferred to the new Station Engineering and Logistics Squadron (SELS). AEF maintained armament systems and the Explosive Storage Area, while GEF supported airfield equipment and ground engineering tasks essential to operational readiness. Chinook Maintenance School (ChMS), now within AWSS, plays a fundamental role in the training and development of all Chinook engineering personnel. Established in 1980, ChMS delivers Pre-Employment Training (PET) for all aircraft engineers working on or supporting the Chinook platform. ChMS ensures technicians are trained to meet evolving platform requirements and maintains close ties to the Chinook Delivery Team and industry. By maintaining a direct connection with operational engineering teams, ChMS ensures that RAF Chinook technicians receive the most relevant, up-to-date instruction, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of the UK Chinook Force. In summary, AWSS provides the critical engineering depth, equipment support, and personnel training that sustain the UK Chinook Force. Without AWSS, the delivery of safe, effective, and deployable Chinook capability would not be possible.