GEN-FAM PHOTOGRAPHY

Deployment of the 1st RHC

In May 2021, the 1st Combat Helicopter Regiment (1st RHC) from Phalsbourg conducted an operational deployment to Épernay-Plivot airfield in the Grand Est region. This deployment aimed to strengthen the training of French Army crews, particularly in the context of reconnaissance missions, firing on the Suippes areas, training with commandos, and night flights. During this three-week period, the 1st RHC deployed several types of helicopters.

The 1st Combat Helicopter Regiment: Elite of Army Light Aviation

Founded in 1977, the 1er RHC is the most decorated regiment in ALAT (French Army Light Aviation). It descends from elite units with combat history in Indochina, the Gulf War, and more recent foreign operations such as Serval and Sangaris.

As part of the 4th Airmobile Brigade, the unit comprises around 850 active personnel and 200 reservists, organized into squadrons for attack, transport, support, and maintenance missions.

Their motto, "Primus Primorum" ("First of the first"), reflects the regiment’s cutting-edge role in rapid reaction and high-intensity combat — both domestically and abroad.

Equipment Deployed

The regiment deployed a mixed fleet including:

2 Gazelle helicopters – ideal for reconnaissance, fire support, and anti-tank or anti-air missions,
2 Tigre helicopters – dedicated to high-intensity attack operations,
2 NH90 Caïman helicopters – multi-role platforms for troop transport, MEDEVAC, and ground support.

These aircraft represent the regiment’s new-generation tactical fleet, which includes around 40 helicopters:

9 Gazelles, 12 Tigres, and 18 Caïmans, supported by logistics, radar, ground vehicles, and simulation systems.

Gazelle: Light helicopter designed for liaison, reconnaissance, support-protection, anti-tank, and anti-aircraft operations.

Tiger: Attack helicopter introduced into service in 2005, manufactured by Airbus Helicopter.

Caiman: Multi-role helicopter in service since 2010 in the Navy version, and since 2011 in the Army, designed for troop and equipment transport, and evacuation.

Objectives of the Deployment

This deployment served several operational goals:

Validating the regiment’s projection capabilities — testing its ability to operate 30 helicopters autonomously outside their home base,
Enhancing joint operations — combining Tigre, Gazelle, and Caïman helicopters in complex tactical scenarios,
Engaging with civilians — organizing public access and education events to raise awareness of Army Light Aviation (ALAT) missions and gear.

Civil-Military Interaction

During the operation, the local flying club hosted open hangar days, allowing civilians to explore the helicopters and meet crews. The public could learn about ALAT’s role in national defense and even participate in introductory flights, thanks to a strong partnership between the military and the civilian air community.

This deployment to Épernay-Plivot strengthened the operational capabilities of the 1st RHC and maintained high operational readiness, while fostering cooperation with local forces and raising public awareness of the Army's missions.

Conclusion

The 1er RHC’s deployment to Épernay-Plivot in May 2021 was a successful demonstration of tactical readiness, joint integration, and public outreach — embodying the operational excellence of French Army Aviation.

I would like to particularly thank the army personnel for their accessibility and kindness, without their accreditations some photos would not have been possible !

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