United Kingdom - November 04, 2025 A daunting array of British and French helicopters has launched into a critical NATO combat training exercise. On November 4, 2025, four Gazelle, ten Wildcat, eight Apache, and two Chinook helicopters took to the skies from Wattisham Flying Station in Suffolk. They taxied in unison along the runway before ascending in a dramatic ‘elephant walk’. This exercise, dubbed Exercise Pinion Titan, is a stark demonstration of the allied forces' preparedness. The presence of French Gazelle helicopters, renowned for their reconnaissance and attack capabilities, underscores the intensified military partnership between France and the UK. This alliance is a legacy of the 2010 Lancaster House Treaties. The ‘elephant walk’ is not merely a spectacle but a powerful statement of unity and readiness. It showcases the seamless integration of these forces, essential for NATO’s collective defense. The drill aims to prove their ability to operate as one, responding decisively to any threat. As the helicopters vanished into the horizon, the exercise marked a pivotal moment in Franco-British military collaboration. It reaffirms their dedication to NATO’s mission. The diverse fleet, each helicopter tailored for specific combat roles, highlights the breadth of this training, gearing up for multifaceted challenges.