[Electronic translation of Dutch press release]

The Helicopter Weapons Instructor Course (HWIC) yesterday with the graduation of the trainees completed. The graduates, two Apache pilots, two pilots and two Cougar Chinook loadmasters are thus officially appointed helicopter gun instructor. Air Force Commander (C-LSK) Lieutenant General Jac Jansen attended the ceremony.

During the 15 week course, students specialize in the tactical work with other Services. The training, which is provided by 299 Squadron led by Major Peter Arts, consists of both a theoretical and a practical part.

HWIC
The theory deals with electronic warfare, helicopter-depth technical, tactical and action with other units. In the practical component focuses on the implementation, instruction, evaluation and standardization of different mission types. It works with the Royal Air Force units from army, navy and military police, at practice sites in the Netherlands, Germany and Great Britain.

Association
In concluding the HWIC-focused students this year a weapon instructor association. The association called ‘On the edge several times a year to meet with active, but also a former weapons instructor for knowledge sharing.

Besides the C-LSK were the Commander Defence Helicopter Command, Commodore Theo ten Haaf, and Helicopter Operations Division, Colonel William Westerbeek, from the graduation present.