Shocking discovery: British soldiers caught in Apache cockpit during routine check

In a shocking breach of military protocol, two British Army soldiers were discovered having sex in the cockpit of an Apache attack helicopter during routine maintenance. The unusual incident, which occurred in 2016 at the Otterburn range in Northumberland, has only recently come to public attention due to a computer glitch revealing previously suppressed details.

Caught in the Act

The incident came to light when a ground crew conducting routine maintenance on an AH-64 Apache noticed suspicious activity. As they prepared to cover the helicopter with rain protectors, they observed the rotors moving irregularly and heard strange noises emanating from the cockpit. Upon investigating, they discovered a man and a woman, both serving soldiers, partially undressed and engaging in sexual activity in the helicopter’s rear cockpit.

A report filed with the Military Aviation Authority described the scene, stating, “The rear cockpit was occupied by two individuals engaged in sexual intercourse. Both were naked from the waist down and exhibited signs of intoxication.” The male soldier was in uniform, while the female, believed to be a civilian at the time of the incident, was later identified as a fellow service member.

Immediate Action Taken

The soldiers were ordered to exit the cockpit, dress, and were subsequently detained until their commanding officers arrived. The Apache belonged to the Army Air Corps' 653 Squadron, although the individuals involved were reportedly from separate military units.

Post-Incident Protocol Changes

While the incident was initially kept under wraps, its recent exposure prompted significant embarrassment for military authorities. Following the incident, new directives were issued to ensure all helicopters are thoroughly secured post-maintenance, aiming to prevent any recurrence of such misconduct.