Tar's brush with Gaddafi

Leading Aircraft Controller Ryan Hyde, 23, is serving aboard HMS Sutherland, a 4,900 tonne Type 23 frigate, which is part of a quick reaction Response Force Task Group, commanded by Commodore John Kingwell, from neighbouring St Leonards-on-Sea.

Ryan’s controls the ship’s Lynx helicopter, and explained: “I advise the command team on aviation matters and I’m responsible for maintaining maps and charts for the aircrew.

“I also ensure the general upkeep of the flight deck and I’ve been trained to deal with any emergencies that may occur.

“It’s challenging at times and there’s the potential for long hours, but it’s very rewarding to see the aircraft take-off, conduct its task and then return safely.”

At the end of May the Task Group was diverted from a multi-national amphibious exercise to the Libyan coast in a bid to increase pressure on its dictator, Colonel Gaddafi.

Apache helicopters from HMS Ocean were launched against selected military targets ashore and HMS Sutherland was tasked with protecting both HMS Ocean and the flagship, HMS Albion, as they moved toward the Libyan coastline.

Ryan said: “When we were off Libya the ship’s company was working defence watches and the helicopter was on an alert cycle ready to go for whatever might arise.

“I was in the Operations Room for much of the time. At night we could see all the lights from the Libyan coastline.”

Last month HMS Sutherland passed through the Suez Canal, where the Task Group was working to strengthen the UK’s partnerships in the Middle East and to contribute to maritime security in the region.

Ryan joined the Royal Navy aged 17 and first served aboard the aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious. He then spent time at the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton and later served aboard the frigates HMS Somerset and HMS Portland.

He said: “When I’m not at sea I live in Bexhill with my girlfriend. I also have family living there. Since being deployed this year I’ve got heavily into rowing and 10 of us are planning a 100-mile row towards the end of our trip to raise money for BLESMA, the British Limbless Ex-Servicemen’s Association, and the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity.”

HMS Sutherland’s commanding officer, Commander Roger Readwin, said: “The ship’s company has been working long hours in some of the world’s most important shipping lanes while contending with the intense heat and humidity of the Middle East.

“The first class support of families and friends back home is crucial to the operational capability of this front-line warship.”

PICTURED: Leading Aircraft Controller Ryan Hyde