Exclusive: D-Day Anniversary Plans Scaled Back Due to Lack of Planes
The highly anticipated plans to drop British soldiers over France to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day have hit a roadblock due to a shortage of planes.
Parachute Regiment’s Disappointment
The Parachute Regiment had ambitious plans to deploy 450 soldiers via four Airbus A400M Atlas planes for the June 6 celebrations in Normandy. However, their aspirations have been significantly dampened as the Royal Air Force (RAF) has confirmed that only one aircraft, serving as a replacement for the retired Hercules C130, is currently available.
Outrage Within the Regiment
An insider within the regiment expressed profound disappointment, labeling the situation “an insult to those who made the ultimate sacrifice” for their country.
Criticism Against Government
Various critics have directed blame towards the government for the premature retirement of 14 Hercules planes, despite prior warnings regarding the Atlas’ capability shortcomings in comparison. Former defence minister Tobias Ellwood stated, “As things stand, the Paras’ hopes of putting on a large-scale multi-plane parachute drop has been limited to a single aircraft and just 100 of them jumping out…”
RAF’s Heavy Lift Transport Capacity
The prevalent issue underscores a concerning reality – the current RAF lacks substantial heavy lift transport capacity post the disbandment of the Hercules transport fleet that dutifully served the nation for over five decades, simply as a cost-cutting measure.
Efforts to Secure Additional Aircraft
Despite the setbacks, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps is reportedly engaged in securing at least one additional plane to salvage the commemorative event. An insider close to Shapps reassured, “We will make sure we have what we need to mark D-Day in the way it deserves. This is a special anniversary and the UK will play a full part in the commemorations with a significant military presence.”
Global Participation in D-Day Commemorations
This year’s D-Day tributes will witness a gathering of international dignitaries, with US President Joe Biden among them. King Charles is set to lead the tributes honoring the 18,000 men from Allied forces who bravely landed in Normandy.