848 Naval Air Squadron is stood up when needed, usually to cover 845 while the front-line squadron changes helicopter type. It is also a training squadron, so the arrangement links conversion work to the readiness of the wider force. The Fleet Air Arm can therefore manage a temporary capability gap without treating every squadron as permanently deployable. Experience with 848, 824, and members of 845 informs the later discussion of Commando helicopter culture.
Notable Point · 2:00-2:32
How 848 Squadron covers 845's aircraft transitions
848 Squadron can preserve Commando helicopter capacity while 845 changes aircraft type, linking conversion training to the readiness of the wider Fleet Air Arm.