Royal Navy supply ship RFA Fort Victoria marks 70th anniversary of VJ Day

The crew of a Royal Navy supply ship have spelled out "VJ70" on the flight deck to commemorate the 70th anniversary of victory over Japan.

The message made out on board Royal Fort Auxiliary (RFA) Fort Victoria was photographed from a Sea King Airborne Surveillance and Control (SKASaC) helicopter, and was made up of RFA and Royal Navy personnel, including some from the Maritime Aviation Support Force and 849 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) Palembang Flight.

A Navy spokesman said VJ Day was particularly poignant for 849 NAS, as the squadron was part of the British Pacific Fleet during the Second World War and holds battle honours for raids on Okinawa and Palembang.

Captain Steve Norris, commanding officer of RFA Fort Victoria, said: "The Royal Navy, Royal Fleet Auxiliary and Fleet Air Arm all played key roles in the Far East during World War Two. The ship's company of RFA Fort Victoria are honoured to be able to demonstrate their recognition and support to veterans of that campaign on this, the 70th Anniversary of VJ Day."

RFA Fort Victoria is in the Gulf providing support for coalition warships, whilst 849 NAS SKASaC helicopters patrol the skies conducting maritime security operations.