For the first time in 26 years, the 35F flotilla of the French Navy, based in La Rochelle, crossed the threshold of 100 rescue operations in less than a year. An unprecedented performance which testifies to their versatility and their importance in the region.
A historic and significant first
According to Sud-Ouest, the last November 27the teams of the “Yankee Cheetah” detachment carried out their hundredth mission of the year, a record for this unit founded in 1997. A comparison with the previous year shows the extent of this progression: on the same date in 2023, the rescuers had carried out 83 interventions. For Lieutenant Vincent, this figure marks a turning point. “It proves the importance of our presence and it justifies our employment”he explains.
Diversified and increasing missions
If the 35F flotilla is mainly known for its rescue missions at sea, it has been mobilized this year on an increasing number of land rescue for peoplein support of Civil Security and its Dragon 17 helicopter. A trend which partly explains this record of interventions. “We have an obligation to be versatile,” recalls the lieutenant.
A large-scale intervention area
Based at La Rochelle airport, the detachment includes 13 soldiersdont six are permanent continuously to respond to alerts. Their scope of action is not limited to Charente-Maritime : it extends over the entire Atlantic facadefrom Vannes to the Spanish border, and also covers interventions up to 120 nautical offshore.
A constantly growing activity
This record is not a complete surprise. In 2022the flotilla had already come close to the symbolic bar of 100 interventions, ending the year at 97 missions and having rescued 41 people. This year, at the end of November, 75 people were taken care of, compared to only 32 in 2022illustrating a clear acceleration.
Between missions and intensive training
Rescue operations, although crucial, only represent about one quarter of annual flight hours Dauphin pilots. The rest is spent in rigorous training, day and night, to maintain their readiness. “In short, we fly almost daily,” specifies a member of the team. Each pilot accumulates approximately 200 flight hours per yeara rhythm that testifies to the total commitment of the unit.
An essential role on the Atlantic coast
With a notable increase in interventions, the 35F flotilla is strengthening its leading role in the relief system on the Atlantic. A dynamic that highlights the dedication and skill of the men and women of “Yankee Cheetah”, ready to intervene at any time to save lives.
