Royal Navy: HMS Queen Elizabeth's aircraft controller praised for helping to protect £1bn Type 45 destroyer

Leading Aircraft Controller (LAC) Jack Stait came to the aid of HMS Dragon after the ship unexpectedly lost its only aircraft controller.

The 25-year-old, who had been serving on HMS Queen Elizabeth during her deployment to American last year, took on the mantle.

And his efforts have since earned him the first ever Royal Navy Air Traffic Management Commodore’s Cup.

The sailor, who grew up in Portsmouth but now lives in Barnham, West Sussex, picked up the prize during an event at HMS Collingwood in Fareham.

His citation read: ‘Early into the Westlant 19 strike group deployment HMS Dragon suffered a loss of aircraft control capability when their sole controller was returned to the UK.

‘LAC Stait, who was HMS Queen Elizabeth’s only AC at the time, was loaned with only 24 hours’ notice.

‘He embarked in the unfamiliar Type 45, and wasted no time in integrating into the operations team onboard, demonstrating outstanding flexibility and resilience.

‘He transferred his considerable carrier aviation knowledge into his new temporary platform and consistently advised his command on wider aviation operations being conducted within the strike group.

‘His positive attitude, proactive character and high professional standards saw him adopt the additional aviation tasks and responsibilities usually owned by permanent ship’s company, and not normally tackled by augmentees.

‘LAC Stait’s flexibility, his selfless contribution and commitment ensured that HMS Dragon continued to operate with full aviation capability throughout Westlant 19.’

Jack, who joined the navy in 2015, is now serving as an air control instructor at HMS Collingwood.

Speaking of receiving his award, he said: ‘I was surprised to say the least when the commanding officer rang me whilst I was at home to tell me about the award. It is satisfying for myself that the work was just acknowledged.’

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