THE Royal Air Force has started training in its £260m upgraded aircraft at Oxfordshire’s Benson base.

The new Puma Mk2 helicopters have new engines and better fuel efficiency than the Puma Mk1.

In addition, they have state-of-the-art digitised glass cockpits and can carry up to 16 fully equipped troops.

Minister for Defence, Equipment, Support and Technology, Philip Dunne said: “With its greater range, endurance and payload, the Puma Mk2 helicopter will give the RAF significantly enhanced, agile capability in support of combat and humanitarian operations in even the most austere conditions.”

Puma Force Commander, Group Captain Nigel Colman, said: “The Puma is a remarkable aircraft and its ability to operate in urban and harsh conditions will see it play a key role in any future deployments.

“Needless to say the Puma Force is really enjoying getting to grips with the aircraft and are reporting that it is outperforming expectations.”

Seven of the RAF’s fleet of 24 Puma Mk2s have so far been delivered to RAF Benson and the remainder will be handed over during the next two years ahead of the helicopters entering service in 2015.