Ops Normal

“By weaving strategic context and personal experience, Peters and Greenacre present a rich, layered depiction of a Corps shaped by Cold War tensions and irregular conflicts. For military historians and enthusiasts, it stands out as a meticulously researched and emotionally compelling work.” – The Journal of the Air Force Historical Foundation

Since formation in 1957 the Army Air Corps has played a prominent role in almost every British Army operation in modern times. Ops Normal is an unrivaled and comprehensive operational history of the Army Air Corps experience. It is a unique insight into the aircraft deployed, and the experiences of the men and women involved.

Volume 1 of Ops Normal is exceptional as it draws generously on the testimony of those who were deployed on the early operations. Aircrew and Groundcrew provided critical aviation support to the full spectrum of flying operations in the most hazardous environments, often under fire. It also captures the pace of change and turbulence as the small embryonic corps of aviators evolved into the fully fledged combat arm of today.

Ops Normal covers operations in Malaya, Borneo, Hong Kong, Cyprus, Kuwait, Aden, British Guiana, Belize and in Northern Ireland. It uses previously unpublished material, thought-provoking first-hand accounts coupled with contemporary unit records, and many unpublished images. The result is a fresh and compelling history of a Corps that though diminutive in numbers, rank as one of the most potent in the British Army’s order of battle.

Ops Normal is the only complete and authorized account of British Army aviation operations undertaken by the Army Air Corps. It is a fitting tribute to all who wore the sky blue beret and especially those that made the ultimate sacrifice. It is also a testimony to those that survive with the physical and mental scars of their service.

John Greenacre is a former Army Air Corps officer and Gazelle pilot with over 23 years of service. He took part in operations in the Gulf, Balkans and Northern Ireland and served in Germany, Canada, the Falkland Islands and Kenya. He holds a PhD in history from Leeds University and is currently a lecturer at the University of Suffolk in Ipswich.

Mike Peters is a retired Army Air Corps officer with more than thirty years of military service. He is now a full-time military historian and Chairman of the International Guild of Battlefield Guides. Mike has published books on the Glider Pilot Regiment in WWII and the Operational History of the Army Air Corps.