The purpose of the exercise was to train together and align the common operating procedures of the two bodies, which frequently find themselves working side by side in search and rescue operations.
16 volunteers of the CNSAS and 2 flight crews of the 15 ° Stormo were the protagonists of the exercise with a training return relevant for both parties. Many of the volunteers, in fact, received their first HH-139A helicopter training, while the Stormo staff was able to fully simulate a real intervention.
During the operations all the volunteers had the opportunity to practice in the phases of embarkation and disembarkation from the helicopter as well as in those even more delicate of ascent and descent with the winch, both in daytime and at night, in the latter case thanks to use night vision goggles (Night Vision Goggles).
Exercises of this type are fundamental both for the men of the military aeronautics and for the bodies that are found to cooperate with them. The use of common procedures ensures maximum speed in the event of actual use, as well as allowing to minimize the operational risks associated with rescue operations.
Cervia airport is home to the command of the 15 ° Stormo, which, with its SAR groups / centers also located at the airports of Pratica di Mare (RM), Gioia del Colle (BA), Decimomannu (CA) and Trapani , guarantees 24 hours on 24, for 365 days a year, the search and rescue of flight crews of military aircraft in distress. The Stormo also contributes to activities of public utility such as the search for missing persons at sea or in the mountains, the emergency medical transport of patients in danger of life and the rescue of serious traumatized persons. The 15 ° Stormo, from its establishment until today, has saved about 7.000 people in danger of life.
Source: 15 ° Stormo (Cervia) - Lieutenant Simone Agostinelli
