An RAF Poseidon maritime patrol plane took part in Exercise Emerald Rescue last week with His Majesty's Coastguard and the RNLI in Northern Ireland. The aircraft operated from Joint Helicopter Command Flying Station Aldergrove in Co Antrim for the first time. It flew to the north coast on Friday, searching expansive waters for a dummy casualty.

The Poseidon, based at Lossiemouth in Scotland and flown by 201 Squadron, detected the orange marker at sea. Wing Commander Rob McCartney, the squadron's commanding officer, noted the challenge of spotting such targets. A lifeboat from Portrush then reached the location, recovered the dummy and returned to shore.

Wing Commander McCartney stated that search and rescue operations are led by the Coastguard, with the RAF providing support. He highlighted the plane's new capabilities for long-range missions in the north Atlantic, ahead of lifeboats and helicopters suited to near-shore areas.

The exercise improves coordination among agencies. Gordon McCreadie, divisional commander of His Majesty's Coastguard for Northern Ireland and west Scotland, called the practical training essential for refining skills in spotting people at sea.

Both officers welcomed added assets for summer, when demand rises. Wing Commander McCreadie emphasized enhanced search effectiveness to save lives. The RAF also maintains close ties with the Irish Air Corps for joint responses under treaty obligations.