814 Squadron return to RNAS Culdrose navy base in Cornwall

The crew of 814 Naval Air Squadron's Mohawk Flight from RNAS Culdrose have been away since April.

They were on deployment with the frigate HMS Northumberland, patrolling UK waters.

Awaiting eagerly back on base for their arrival were the families and loved ones who were left behind, and couldn't wait to spot that first glance of a familiar face walking across the tarmac.

Grey skies but sunny smiles for this reunited couple Picture: Royal Navy

Dad is back home for this family Picture: Royal Navy

The flight’s Merlin Mk2 helicopter emerged from the low cloud to land again at the Cornish air station on Wednesday.

Some of the squadron engineers also hitched a ride home, while the remainder returned with their stores onboard the ship to the naval base at Devonport, which docked on Thursday afternoon.

Also out on deployment from Culdrose still are the seven helicopters and 190 people making up almost all 820 squadron, who bid farewell to join HMS Queen Elizabeth also back in April.

Loved ones from 814 Naval Air Squadron’s Mohawk Flight were welcomed back Picture: Royal Navy

Some of the squadron engineers also hitched a ride Picture: Royal Navy

They are expected to be away for significantly longer, not returning until the end of the year.

The carrier – the Royal Navy’s new flagship – initially took part in exercises in UK waters in preparation for her maiden deployment to the Far East.

A happy reunion Picture: Royal Navy

Working with the UK’s allies and NATO partners, she will visit 40 countries on her first deployment.

The helicopters of 820 Naval Air Squadron have been described as "the airborne guardians of the strike fleet." Between them, they will defend the carrier and her escorts from threats below the waves, on the surface and in the air.