Pre Cougar 13 Preparation – the Helicopter Carrier ILLUSTRIOUS is about to complete four weeks of total war training in the Western Approaches prior to the Cougar 13 Deployment in the Mediterranean and Gulf in the Autumn (August 2013).  Under the direction of Flag Officer Sea Training the veteran carrier will be at the heart of the annual workout for the UK’s  Response Force Task Group.     Meanwhile the Fleet Flagship the Assault Ship BULWARK held a families day at sea as part of a break from a busy training and exercise programme since the start of the year.   The BULWARK now begins a short maintenance period, in preparation for leading the Cougar 13 Deployment later this year.