This footage was filmed and produced 3 November 2023.

In a daring rescue operation in the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean, an Atlas A400M aircraft from RAF Brize Norton and a Poseidon MRA1 from RAF Lossiemouth joined forces to save a sailor in distress. The Norwegian-registered yacht, severely damaged by the fury of storm Ciaran, sent out a distress call on the evening of November 2nd. The vessel, located approximately 700 miles off the coast of Cornwall, had lost both of its masts, leaving its captain in a dire situation.

To assess the situation, a French Navy FA50 Falcon was initially dispatched to locate the vessel and confirm the captain's well-being. At first light on November 3rd, an RAF Atlas A400M was launched to continue the mission, followed by the Poseidon, which took over responsibility for the task. Both aircraft were equipped with survival gear that they could airdrop using parachutes to assist mariners in distress. The Poseidon, in particular, carried a Uni-Pac 3 air search and rescue survival kit, including a survival raft and essential emergency equipment.

The Poseidon aircraft from 201 Squadron closely monitored the damaged yacht to ensure the captain remained onboard. In the event that the sailor was thrown overboard, the aircraft stood ready to drop life rafts and survival equipment capsules. Eventually, the Poseidon's crew guided a merchant ship named Green Azure to the yacht's location, facilitating the successful rescue of the sailor.

This complex and risky mission was a result of close coordination between the RAF, various UK and international agencies, including HM Coastguard, ensuring the safe return of the sailor to dry land. The rapid and professional response of the Poseidon aircraft and its crew, who are always on standby for such incidents, played a crucial role in the successful execution of this rescue. The mission's success underscores the professionalism and exceptional training of the personnel involved.

[Note: no sound]