With increased firepower, more powerful engines and the ability to operate in hotter temperatures, the new Lynx Mk9A helicopter has increased the options available to commanders in Afghanistan since its arrival in May.

It is fitted with a more advanced communication system, improved surveillance equipment and the M3M Machine Gun - a 0.50" calibre weapon, capable of firing over 850 rounds a minute.

Lance Corporal 'Gaz' Lovett is an Aviation Crewman working on the new helicopter, serving with 672 Squadron, Joint Helicopter Force (Afghanistan). As a door gunner, he provides firepower from the sky in support of troops on the ground, or when the Lynx is escorting other aircraft.

"When we're in the air, my responsibility is to look out for any other aircraft that could cause a danger to our aircraft. I'm also looking for insurgent activity in relation to other aircraft going in and out of the PBs (patrol bases)," he says.

He says "A long day out here can be very demanding with all your kit on, but it's nothing compared to what the guys on the ground have got. And it gives you an awesome sense of achievement picking them up out of the PBs and bringing them back."