IROQUOIS
DEPLOY!
NO. 3 SQUADRON
HEADS TO PNG
- Celebrating the Diamond Jubilee
- Under Samoan Skies
- Seasprite missile firing
Issue 138
July 2012 | Royal New Zealand Air Force
Air Force News
1
First Word
CONTENTS
Our mission
To carry out military air operations to advance
New Zealand’s security interests with professionalism,
integrity and teamwork.
Air Force News is the official magazine of the Royal
New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) —established to inform,
educate, and entertain its personnel and friends.
Published by
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HQ NZ Defence Force
Wellington, New Zealand
Editor
Richard Jackson
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Fax 04-496-0290
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04 The RNZAF and Future 35
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expressed in the Air Force News are not necessarily
those of the RNZAF or the New Zealand Defence
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16 Ex BERSAMA SHIELD
22 Diamond Jubilee
06 Papua New Guinea Deployment
27 CPL Courtney Sefo
09 Seasprite’s Southern Deployment
32 Cargo Handling in the Freezer
12 Under Samoan Skies
30 Briefings
17 Ex BOLD ALLIGATOR
32 GPCAPT Stew White—obituary
18 Warrant Officer of the Air Force
33 Air Training Corps
19 The NZDF in Antarctica
34 Sport
20 Our People
36 NZDF Sports Awards
24 Queen’s Coronation 1953
25 Squadron Standards
26 Logistical Training Sqn Dining In
2
Air Force News
Celebrating 75 Years of service to New Zealand
Contributions need to include
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Contribution deadline for the August Issue
Tuesday 03 July 2012
Contribution deadline for the September Issue
Monday 06 August 2012
Contribution deadline for the October Issue
Monday 03 September 2012
Air Force News will hold the copyright for submitted articles
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without permission.
ISSN 1175-2327
COVER IMAGE
ONE OF TWO IROQUOIS BEING LOADED INTO THE RAAF
C-17 FOR DEPLOYMENT TO PAPUA NEW GUINEA ON
12 JUNE. STAFF FROM THE OHAKEA AIR MOVEMENTS
SECTION, NO.3 SQN PERSONNEL AND RAAF
LOADMASTERS WORKED TOGETHER TO LOAD THE JET
TRANSPORT WITH RNZAF HELICOPTERS AND SUPPORT
EQUIPMENT FOR THE DEPLOYMENT. SEE STORY PAGE 6.
PHOTO: LAC AMANDA MCERLICH, CPE OHAKEA.
20120612_OH_K1023900_0013
FIRST
WORD
By Air Commodore Steve Moore
Air Component Commander
As I sit in my office at HQJFNZ on a wretchedly wet and windy
Wellington winter’s afternoon the RNZAF has….
• A P-3 coming off task after a two-day unsuccessful search
for a missing fishing vessel and crew in Kirabati waters, and
another P-3 crew on standby at Whenuapai should a yacht
in trouble, while participating in the Auckland to Noumea
race, need assistance.
• A Boeing 757 on the way to the USA taking NZ Army
Engineers to an exercise in California. It returned to New
Zealand with 104 US Marines to commemorate the 70th
anniversary of the Corps being stationed in New Zealand
during World War II.
• Meanwhile, our last ‘legacy’ C-130 is on its third round
trip this week to Samoa to redeploy No.3 Squadron
Iroquois and personnel after their successful Exercise
TROPIC ASTRA*, while a C-130 LEP is in Cold Lake, Canada
participating in Exercise MAPLE FLAG. That exercise will
provide the final test for the latest version of software,
but more importantly ensure both air and ground crews
are prepared with the necessary skills for their next
deployment into Afghanistan.
• Back at sea, a No.6 Squadron Seasprite sits on the deck
of HMNZS TE KAHA on the way to Hawaii for Exercise
RIMPAC, having yesterday fired a Maverick missile as
part of their exercise build-up (as OC 485 Wing put it,
“Seasprite 1 – Target 0”)*.
• At Whenuapai the P-3K2 team patiently await engine
runs on the one available K2 in order to fly the transition
course and to progress the operational test and evaluation
program, while our other Boeing 757 was sitting in the
hangar as the logistics team sourced an engine cowl from
overseas.
• Further south at Ohakea, No. 3 Squadron personnel are
busy regenerating after their exercise in Samoa and
preparing their aircraft, equipment and people for when an
RAAF C-17 arrives next week to transport three Iroquois
and 40 personnel to Papua New Guinea to support that
This is our Air Force conducting
military air operations to advance
New Zealand’s security interests.
country’s general elections*.
• No. 42 Squadron are busy preparing themselves to head
offshore to complete training in readiness to take delivery
of the Proline 21 Kingairs, and then to have all the training
and operations manuals ready to commence operations
and Wings course training with the aircraft as soon as
possible after the aircraft arrive.
• Pilot Training Squadron have just sent our newest
generation of military aviators on their first solos—our
future NH-90, B757, C-130 and P-3K2 captains. Central
Flying School are also about to graduate the latest cadre of
flying instructors—our future flying squadron executives
and commanders.
• Across the airfield, Helicopter Transition Unit continues
apace with operational test and evaluation of the A109 and
NH-90, an activity which is going particularly well (and I
hope I haven’t just jinxed the great run we’re having!).
Meanwhile, back at ‘Joint’, between long phone calls with
the OC’s [Officers Commanding] of 485 and 488 Wings
discussing the issues, risks and mitigations, there is a steady
flow of emails and a procession of staff planners at my door
with updates on tasks, decisions required on various issues,
options we can take should an aircraft become unserviceable
or that B757 at Whenuapai not be ready for those tasks
later this month; and proposals for future tasking—from
moving kiwis (the feathered variety) for the Department
of Conservation, to providing tactical air support to other
Services’ exercises.
A normal day really! This is our Air Force conducting military
air operations to advance New Zealand’s security interests.
* See stories inside this issue.
Air Force News
3
MAJ Terry McDonald speaking to Loadmaster
F/S Kim Wright during the water crisis in Tuvalu
Future 35 shows the direction CDF wants to take the NZDF, his priorities
and his strategies. The Air Force is very well placed to support this vision.
By GPCAPT Andy Woods,
Assistant Chief of Air Force (Strategy Management)
THE RNZAF AND
‘FUTURE 35’
FLTLT Will Neill and FLTLT Charlie
Beetham walk out to an NH90 for
a flight from Ohakea on 14 May
Recently, CDF released his strategy for the NZDF to 2035,
entitled Future 35. This year, as we are celebrating the RNZAF’s
previous 75 years of service to New Zealand, it’s timely that we
look at how well we are placed to support CDF’s strategy—taking
us ahead almost to our 100 th birthday.
Future 35 has a number of key themes, the first of which
is to be more ‘joined up’ as a Defence Force, and the Joint
Amphibious Task Force (JATF) is a tangible example of that. For
our Air Force, it’s a concept we’re very familiar with, and well
prepared for. The foremost example is No.6 Squadron: an Air
Force Squadron, commanded by a naval officer (who in many
instances was trained on an Air Force ‘Wings’ course) staffed
by Air Force maintenance personnel, who routinely go to sea
in RNZN ships and become part of a ship’s company, delivering
an air asset that is a critical part of our maritime projection and
combat capability. I’m sure the members of No. 6 Sqn will have
4
Air Force News
a good understanding of what CDF means when he talks about
the single Services being ‘joined up’.
Equally, the raison d’etre of our transport and helicopter
forces is to support the other two Services to create a ‘joined
up’ effect. Whether it be B757s taking soldiers to Afghanistan,
C-130s taking supplies into Dili, or—as in the recent Exercise
ALAM HALFA—Iroquois dropping assault teams onto a
compound, Air Force’s delivery of air power is strongly
focussed on supporting NZDF as ‘one force’.
Another clear example of this focus, and how it fits into our
Future 35 vision, is the NH90 helicopter. As the flexible force
we are, this platform will of course be used in multiple roles.
Fundamentally though, the criteria for selecting the NH90
helicopter were driven by our role in operating as a ‘joined up’
force with the Army. To quote the Ministry of Defence, the
NZDF’s new medium utility helicopter had to be able to:
Move an Army section—a minimum of eight fully equipped land
force soldiers—to enable the smallest combat entity to conduct
its tasks for success, safety and survivability. Move up to six
stretcher casualties, plus medical staff, in a single helicopter. Lift
a light gun or light operational vehicle.
So the NH90, our newest capability, was not selected to
meet an Air Force, or a single Service requirement, it was
selected to meet an NZDF requirement that would be delivered
by the Air Force and the Army, joined up, and working together.
Another theme of CDF’s Future 35 strategy is how he wants
to shape the ‘front’ in three strategic priorities:
• situational awareness;
• presence, shaping and influence; and
• response.
Again, Air Force is well prepared to support CDF’s strategy,
both with how we operate today, and with where we are going
in the future. Under the priority of situational awareness CDF
states that intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR)
“is the biggest and most important investment we can make”.
In the P-3K2 Orion, the RNZAF is introducing the most
capable ISR platform in the NZDF, in both the maritime and
overland roles. It is in fact a world-class ISR capability and a
fundamental component of CDF’s strategic priority for the
future.
‘Presence, shaping and influencing’ are about placing
more emphasis on Multi-Agency Operations and Tasks
(MAOT), those things we do in support of wider New Zealand
Government outcomes. Here in particular, our Air Force is very
well placed to support CDF’s priority. From dropping supplies
to Department of Conservation workers on Raoul Island, to
providing helicopter support to Police cannabis recovery
operations, to search and rescue of lost yachts or fishing
boats—the Air Force conducts operations every day that are
over and above our purely military outcomes.
A common military catch-phrase is ‘we train as we intend to
fight’. To a large degree in Air Force, ‘we operate every day as
we intend to fight’. There are certainly military-specific roles
we do conduct additional training for, but to a large degree the
skills we bring to our MAOT operations every day are also the
skills we bring to our pure military operations. Simplistically,
the aircraft doesn’t care whether the patrol it’s on is to look for
a lost yacht, or to look for a hostile warship—the aircraft needs
the same maintenance, the same flight planning, the same
piloting and crew skills.
The nature of NZDF’s air power is such that we are generating
it, and delivering it, in one form or another, every day.
The last of CDF’s strategic priorities is ‘response’. In this
context it is about the combat capability that we provide
through our Seasprite and P-3K2 fleets, but it is also about the
ability to ‘react with speed’ and to have ‘strategic reach’. You
will of course remember from air power lectures that ‘flexibility
is the key to air power’, but you will also remember that if there
is anything that an aircraft uniquely brings to a force, it is speed
and strategic reach. Whether it be at the tactical level with
NH90s, the upgraded C-130 LEPs, or the strategic capability
of our B757 Combi military airlifters, our Air Force is on track
to provide the Defence Force with the response capability CDF
seeks.
Future 35 shows the direction CDF wants to take the NZDF,
his priorities and his strategies. The Air Force is very well placed
to support this vision. Of course, there is always more to do,
we continuously improve the way we operate and our capability
renewal program of aircraft acquisitions and upgrades will
continue to be a major focus for us for some time.
In the next few months we will be releasing more detail on
the work we have ahead. The advantage we have as we support
the future vision, is that we are already very familiar with
working in a ‘joined up’ environment, whether on land or at sea.
We are also well placed to emphasise the MAOT operations we
conduct every day; and we are introducing new capabilities that
align perfectly with NZDF’s strategic priorities.
The celebration of our proud 75 years of service is not yet
over, but we can already take a good look towards our next era
of equally proud service. We will have much to reflect on when
that 100 th birthday comes around!
Air Force News
5
Regional Assistance
Regional Assistance
Ohakea Air Movements Section, No.3
Sqn Maintenance personnel and RAAF
Loadmasters push one of the RNZAF
Iroquois into the RAAF C-17 on 12 June,
for the deployment to PNG
Lashing the helicopter down
on the C-17 cargo deck
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
DEPLOYMENT
New Zealand and Australia are providing
support to the Papua New Guinea Electoral
Commission and authorities to ensure a
fair, free and safe general election. The New
Zealand Government has offered Defence
Force staff and RNZAF helicopters to support
the election—the helicopters and crews will
transport election officials and ballot papers
within remote areas of the mountainous
country. The deployment is taking place from
mid-June until late July, with the electionsupport tasks begining on 20 June.
6
Air Force News
LAC Matt Thirlwell of Air
Movements stacks up a
pallet of tools and equipment
for the deployment
T
he NZDF contingents are supporting the Australian
Defence Force-led Combined Task Force 630, in which
over 250 Australian and NZDF personnel will operate
together to assist PNG authorities in the transportation
of election material and election officials to remote areas.
Approximately 40 NZ Defence Force personnel will operate
across the lowland region and coastal townships of Papua New
Guinea, including the nearby Papua New Guinea Islands.
Three RNZAF UH-1H Iroquois helicopters and four
Australian Army Black Hawk helicopters, along with RAAF
B350 King Airs and C-130 Hercules have been assigned to
the operation. For several weeks already, a small number of
personnel have been working with the Papua New Guinea
Electoral Commission, in a planning role. Deputy Commander
of Combined Joint Task Force, New Zealander LTCOL David
de Koning said, “The No. 3 Sqn detachment will operate in the
Northern Province and Milne Bay; they have a lot of work to do
over a very short period of time to help ensure the people on
the ground get their opportunity to vote.”
At No. 3 Squadron in Ohakea, the new national commitment
meant a lot of detailed preparations in a short time. The
Squadron’s staff swung into action even before the Squadron’s
detachment had returned from planned exercises in Samoa
AC Sean Wilson (left) and LAC
Christopher Els (r) work on an Iroquois
[see story p12]. The initial burden fell on the Squadron’s
Maintenance Flight.
FLT LT Alec Hutchings explains: “On 03 June, we had three
aircraft, 15 personnel and maintenance gear up in Samoa on
Ex TROPIC ASTRA. The first of those three aircraft returned
to NZ that day along with most of our equipment packs. Four
of our personnel (plus four of the Air Loading Team) remained
in Samoa to look after the other two aircraft while the rest
of the Maintenance detachment returned to help with the
preparations for PNG.
“On 05 June the second aircraft returned from Samoa, while
the first aircraft selected for deployment to PNG went into a
50hr servicing. Following that, it was to be dismantled for airlift
in the RAAF C-17. The RNZAF has a long history of working
closely with our Australian partners building interoperability.
“On 07 June the first of the three aircraft from Samoa was
returned to service, to allow the second aircraft due to go to
PNG to be ‘torn down’ for airlift. That Friday the last aircraft,
remaining personnel and the last of our deployed equipment
pack-up came back from Samoa.
“Over that weekend the personnel from Maintenance Flight
not going to PNG, continued with the work tearing-down the
aircraft for airlift. They worked on through and by 11 June, the
Air Force News
7
Regional Assistance
Operational Capability
Three RNZAF UH-1H Iroquois helicopters
and four Australian Army Black Hawk
helicopters, along with RAAF B350 King Airs
and C-130 Hercules have been assigned to
the operation.
AC Kurt Eves of the Squadron
maintenance team carries out
a visual inspection (DVIN) on
a main rotor blade using a 10x
magnifying scope
OP KUMUL—the plan
13 – 15 June: Deploy to Port Morseby via two RAAF C-17s.
14 – 17 June: Post-airlift re-build and test flying.
14 June:
Squadron freight to Tufi by PNGDF Landing
Craft
18 June:
Detachment aircraft deploy from Port
Moresby to Tufi, in the Oro Province.
Support personnel deploy by air.
20 June:
Begin election tasking operations, until
mid-July.
Mid-July
Redeploy to Port Moresby, tear down and
clean aircraft (3 - 4 days)
Late July
Return to NZ.
8
Air Force News
third aircraft of the PNG deployment was undergoing teardown.
“For airlift by C-17, we have to remove the rotor hub and
blades, the synch elevator and one tail rotor blade. Overall it’s
much easier than preparing an Iroquois for transport in a C-130
as the C-17 has much more space. A C-17 can carry up to four
Iroquois, plus 2 freight pallets on the ramp and 28 personnel
(in fact more, if they install extra seating). As well maintenance
equipment and spares pack-ups have been assembled to
accompany our deployed aircraft.
“The three aircraft deployed to PNG were selected for
having high remaining hours before their next scheduled and
‘Out Of Phase’ servicings, as well as being known to have good
aircraft performance—to take account of the performance
loss from operating in the tropics.
“Other considerations guiding the aircraft selection were
that we had to ensure the fleet remaining in NZ had sufficient
hours available for Search and Rescue or counter terrorism
tasks, as well as being available for training. An added
complication is that two airframes were going into storage
during this time, as part of our overall fleet draw-down before
the entry into service of the new helicopters.”
While the Maintenance Flight were busy, the aircrew and
operations staff of the Squadron were also undertaking
deployment preparations. The nominated personnel had to
get fresh inoculations and also clear stand-down leave as well
as update their administration and Squadron duties before
undertaking pre-deployment training for the operation.
WGCDR Shaun Clark explained that all the aircrew deployed
for Op KUMUL had just returned from Ex TROPIC ASTRA, so it
was a very busy time.
“All personnel deploying for Op KUMUL were looking
forward to the deployment. We will not be armed; New Zealand
and Australia are committed to working together maintaining
stability and promoting good governance in the Pacific.
“Our task is to fly election officials, equipment, ballot boxes
and voting papers to the hard-to-access villages throughout
the Northern and Milne Bay Provinces. Australian Defence
Force helicopters and RAAF aircraft, along with contract
civilian helicopters, will cover other areas of PNG.
“The terrain and weather in PNG will present some
challenging flying for the aircrew, particularly when operating
to the villages in the mountains. Likewise, the isolation of Tufi,
our base, will mean the maintenance team have limited access
to external support. They will be relying on what we bring into
theatre when we deploy.
“It has been several years now since No. 3 Squadron last
deployed on an overseas operation, so everyone is excited
about the opportunity.”
By LTCDR Ryan Brown,
No. 6 Squadron
SEASPRITE’S
SOUTHERN
DEPLOYMENT
On 30 March a crew from No.6 Sqn
departed for a 16-day deployment to the
South Island for multi-agency taskings,
as well as to demonstrate their Seasprite
at major airshows. The varied itinerary,
including display flights and off-shore
tasks for the Ministry of Fisheries [MFish;
now part of the Ministry of Primary
Industries] clearly displayed the multi-role
capacity of the Seasprite, its aircrew, and
maintainers.
Seasprite NZ 3603 at
Queenstown. The swept tail
fin of the Hawker Hunter is
silhouetted in the background
Under the leadership and Captaincy of CDR Jim Tayler,
CO No. 6 Sqn, the Seasprite participated in the RNZAF
75th Anniversary air show at Ohakea and the Warbirds
Over Wanaka air show in the South Island. From Wanaka,
the Seasprite continued south to support the Ministry
of Fisheries and the Dunedin Police Department, before
transiting home to Whenuapai.
The deployment began with the arrival of the Seasprite
in Ohakea to participate in the flight demonstration,
winching role demonstration, and mass helicopter display
for our Anniversary Air Show. Our team proudly discussed
the Seasprite on static display, after our demonstration
flight. Approximately 70,000 people reviewed the mighty
machine and many of them interacted with our operators and
Air Force News
9
Operational Capability
The flight crew and maintainers on TE KAHA after the
successful missile firing: Aircrew (l to r) A/LT Alex Trotter,
LHCM Tiffany Kalin, LT Jacinda Johnston, LTCDR John
Barker. Maintainers: CPL Morrie Morris, CPL Mossy Moss,
SGT Jase Ramsay, CPL Sean Pannet, SGT Snow Hughes,
CPL Charlie Sole, F/SGT Martin Elford (SMR) & SGT Heapy
Heap (kneeling).
maintainers. The public relations success was evident on the
numerous guests adorned with 6 Sqn stickers!
From Ohakea, the team continued south to Nelson. Routing
through Nelson provided an opportunity to support MFish in
the Nelson Bay area. Although the fishing vessels in the area
were complying with all regulations, the overt presence of a
military helicopter was welcomed by the community.
Christchurch then served as our home-away-from-home to
perform some maintenance, with support from Air Movements
at Christchurch Airport. The hard-work of the maintainers
allowed us to continue with the deployment on time. Our
transit from Christchurch to Wanaka included two school visits,
hopefully to positively influence youngsters who rarely see the
Seasprite.
Wings Over Wanaka was another opportunity to show the
Seasprite in display flights and statically. The winching role
demonstration again required our Squadron Adjutant, FLTLT
Ceildeh Martin, to be rescued from a small boat on the runway.
As ever, our maintainers kept the helicopter serviceable and
our aircrew showed the many thousands of spectators that we
were able to rescue FLTLT Martin from certain demise ‘at sea’.
The Seasprite departed Wanaka for Dunedin to complete
taskings with the Dunedin Police Department and MFish. Our
offshore fisheries tasking was filmed for a future episode of
Coast Watch.
Our final task was a Seasprite introduction to the Dunedin
Police Search and Rescue team. After familiarisation and open
discussion with the rescuers, the Seasprite was employed to
winch a few of the SAR team members from a rocky outcrop in
Taieri River. The event bridged the gap between agencies which
frequently have to work together on searches and rescues.
The final days in Dunedin allowed a dedicated maintenance
period before our return flight home. On completion, the
detachment had flown 37.0 hours in 28 sorties; we came back
satisfied that we had demonstrated the mission-effectiveness
and versatility of our No. 6 Sqn team and the Seasprite.
10
Air Force News
The Seasprite is secured on OTAGO’s
flight deck after a deck landing while
alongside at Devonport, during March.
Maverick Missile Firing
Seasprite NZ3604 flying from HMNZS TE KAHA successfully
fired a Maverick missile at a target some 35nm east of Great
Barrier Island on 05 June. The pilot of the No. 6 Sqn Seasprite
was LT Alex Trotter, and the weapon was fired by LT Jacinda
Johnston, who had recently qualified as an Observer (the naval
term for the Air Warfare Officer). LHCM Tiff Kalin completed
the crew. The target was designed to simulate a small vessel
and was totally destroyed by the missile.
For LT Johnston, who had completed her Observer’s flying
training earlier this year, the firing was a real highlight. “It was
easily the most awesome thing I have done in my career to
date!” She describes the flight…
“Standby Missile release in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1………” I depress
‘Launch Enable’ and for a second, nothing happens. Then with
a loud crack, a wave of heat bursts through the cabin and a
fireball hurtles up into the sky. Under an initial 10,000Ibs of
thrust from the rocket motor, the missile lofted up to altitude
and locked onto the infra-red signature of our specially
designed target.
“After our weapon release call, the crew watched intently
as the missile flew 3nm in about 18 seconds, creating a
Hollywood-style explosion on impact—completely destroying
the target!
As the smoke cleared, we brought the helicopter closer in
for a low level damage assessment, but no wreckage was to be
found. We had proved the ability of our weapon and systems to
successfully locate and neutralize a maritime threat. (And we
also earned a missile badge on the airframe for the duration of
the deployment! This is the third time such a target has been
successfully struck by a Seasprite-launched Maverick.)
The target was built for us by Air Affairs, and positioned
by a chartered ship in the exercise area. The target was a
metal structure on a floating pontoon, heated internally
by a gas burner element. It was designed for the size and
characteristics of a small fast-attack craft—a realistic threat
within the littoral environment.
However, the Maverick missile is optimized for use against
armoured targets. Upon detonation, a shape-charge warhead
generates a plasma jet which is capable of penetrating over half
a metre of steel plate, or 10 ft of steel reinforced concrete.
Preparation for the missile firing began weeks earlier,
including sorties in the Hauraki Gulf conducting ‘profile’ runs
on our target under the supervision of the Flight Commander
and Observer Training Officer, LTCDR John Barker. These
profile runs enabled us to assess the aspect of the target at
varying heights and speeds, gauge the strength of its radar and
heat signatures, and fine tune our procedures before the big
day.
• As for any Anti-Surface Warfare scenario, among the
things to consider for the live run were:
• Atmospherics (cloud base, humidity, cross wind
component, sun, sea-state, drift).
• Aspect (what launch height and angle would give us the
strongest thermal contrast against the cold sea)
• Launch range (time of flight and within launch parameters,
but also allowing aircraft stand-off from the target).
• Contingency fuel in case of a misfire.
Training exercises such as this are extremely valuable;
the missile firing exercise allows the air crew and the ship’s
Operations Department to practice the procedures that would
be employed if the missile was to be employed operationally,
and proves the processes used, from removing the missile
from the weapons magazine, to loading it onto the helicopter,
arming it, and the firing itself.
“Our helicopter first launched from the deck just after
dawn that day and conducted aerial range clearance and
dummy firing runs prior to being cleared in ‘hot’. Despite a
deteriorating forecast, the weather held out, and we were able
to track and obtain lock at long range and achieve the firing
within our allocated window.
“On completion of the firing our crew were buzzing. It was
an exciting experience and the pinnacle of our ASuW role in the
SH-2G. From here we continue the deployment to RIMPAC and
our regular training. This will include fisheries patrols around
the Pacific Islands, and combined multi-national warfare
exercises off Hawaii and, later, off Darwin.”
SUCCESSFUL SEAPRITE
FLYING TRIALS FROM
HMNZS OTAGO
The Navy and the RNZAF have successfully
conducted trials of flying an SH-2G Seasprite helicopter
from the deck of HMNZS OTAGO, one of the new Offshore
Patrol Vessels, marking a significant milestone in achieving the
ship’s full operational potential.
Commander Keith Gilchrist said that Seasprite NZ3601
completed 161 deck landings, flying 20.9 hours by day, and
8.4 hours by night, in varying wind and sea conditions in the
Hauraki Gulf and the Bay of Plenty. The trials were conducted
by No. 6 Sqn, ship’s staff and Prism Defence, a contracted
commercial firm.
Analysis of the trial data allows the approved ShipHelicopter Operating Limits (SHOL) to be developed and these
will be finalised this month. At a take off weight of 13,500 lbs
the aircraft can conduct up to a 2.5 hour surface surveillance
task, which will allow up to 4500 sq nautical miles to be covered
in a single sortie by day or night.
CDR Gilchrist commented that CDR Dave McEwan (the CO)
and OTAGO’s ship’s company “Embraced aviation and worked
very hard to make the trial a success. No. 6 Sqn got on with the
job with little fuss.”
Key personnel involved in the trial were LTCDR Owen Rodger
(the trial pilot who flew alongside the Prism test pilot), LTCDR
Sam Greenhalgh (Flight Commander in OTAGO) and F/S Todd
Hewlett (the Senior Maintenance Rating in OTAGO).
“Operating helicopters from ships underway at sea is one of
the most challenging activities any Navy undertakes,” says the
Chief of Navy, RA Tony Parr. “We have been flying helicopters
from the frigates for many years, but now we are learning how
to operate these aircraft from a different ship with different
characteristics. The trials have proven the helicopter can
operate off our new OPVs across a wide range of sea and wind
conditions. There will, however, be a considerable period of
learning as we gain experience operating the aircraft on actual
deployments and develop our capability.”
Air Force News
11
IN
SAMOAN
SKIES
By Nicole Munro,
Operational Capability
Kicking up dust, an Iroquois
comes into land.
Lifting a power generator
to Manono Island
Defence Communications Group
Loading a long item into ( and
through!) the cabin of NZ3801
FLT LT Sam Estall explains the
controls to a school student
An Iroquois touches down on a concrete
jetty in Samoa, during Ex Tropic Astra
12
Air Force News
Exercise TROPIC ASTRA was the show and
Samoa was the stage. Two rotations of No.
3 Squadron personnel plus three UH-1H
Iroquois were put through their paces at
Faleolo airfield from 18 May – 03 June 2012,
in order to achieve tropical currency in the
power-reducing humid air.
It was perfect timing, with OP KUMUL in Papua New Guinea
just around the corner. A contingent of RNZAF personnel
were involved in the exercise, about 40 per rotation. Fifteen
personnel from No. 209 Sqn were deployed, including eight
as Force Protection and three with Communications and
Information Systems (CIS). A Search and Rescue qualified
Medic was also on hand for both rotations.
Rotation One arrived in country on 18 May, and it took
three C-130 flights to get the Hueys to Samoa. The NZ High
Commission had asked the Samoan Government and local
organisations to provide a list of taskings they would like
completed, so the training benefited both the Squadron
personnel and the Samoans.
The biggest task, which also made for the best training
conditions, was mountain flying for the Ministry of Natural
Resources and the Environment’s Biodiversity Survey. The
rapid biological survey is administered by the Secretariat of
the Pacific Regional Environment Programme, an NGO that
oversees Pacific Island nations’ environmental programmes.
Twenty scientists and a full complement of equipment were
flown up into the mountains of Savai’i. The scientists were
surveying life in an area they had never been to before, which
resulted in twenty new species being identified in the first
week.
Other tasks included moving new power poles and lines
to the tops of hills for the Electric Power Corporation,
and transporting personnel and rat traps to carry out rat
eradication on Nu’utele Island.
One of the Hueys also visited Lalomalava Primary School,
after a Year 8 student, Marie Tiatia, wrote to the NZ High
Commission inviting the RNZAF to the school. The whole
village turned out to provide a traditional Samoan welcome
and the children and local community all had a chance to look
at the helicopter and talk to the crew.
A two day disaster relief exercise with a tsunami scenario
stood up Samoan Civil Defence personnel, who had to draft
a response plan. No. 3 Sqn flew to the fire station to pick
up ‘crates of aid’, and flew them to ‘damaged villages’. The
villagers were taught how to safely unload from, and re-load
equipment into, the Hueys.
WGCDR Shaun Clark, Rotation One Detachment
Commander, said the first phase of TROPIC ASTRA was very
successful, with the challenging tasks giving all aircrew the
opportunity to experience the demanding nature of tropical
flying.
“Flying in the tropics provides invaluable experience to
our crews. The performance of the Iroquois is significantly
Air Force News
13
Operational Capability
Operational Capability
TROPIC ASTRA
The Exercise is an annual RNZAF-planned and led
exercise designed to provide readiness training in
tropical flying operations, including civil tasking
and disaster relief exercises. The aim is to train
helicopter crews to the directed level of capability
for tropical conditions. The RNZAF maintains
the capability to operate helicopters in a tropical
environment, in order to be ready to respond in a
disaster or crisis.
The Detachment Commander, WG CDR Shaun
Clark, said that with so much of the RNZAF’s
humanitarian aid and disaster relief work occurring
in the Pacific Islands, personnel must train in
the tropics. “The RNZAF has a proud history of
providing assistance to our Pacific neighbours,
like we did after the 2009 Tsunami, and we’re
only too happy to help. In this exercise we were
presented with a range of challenging tasks ideal
for developing our tropical flying skills.”
After the devastating 2009 Tsunami in Samoa,
two Iroquois helicopters of No.3 Sqn carried
supplies and personnel to remote areas as part of
the wider NZ Defence Force effort.
degraded in the hot conditions encountered in locations such
as Samoa. It’s not uncommon to have as little as 80 percent
of full power available in the Iroquois, meaning crews must
operate with extreme care, and with reduced fuel loads or
payload.”
Rotation Two departed NZ on 30 May, with the RNZAF B757
transporting His Excellency the Governor-General, MFAT
personnel, Members of Parliament, the Royal NZ Navy Band,
and a large NZ Police contingent of Samoan descent, for the
Samoan 50 th Anniversary of Independence celebrations. An
RNZAF Air Loading Team was also on hand to assist with the
VIP flight and the redeployment of Rotation One.
Rotation Two had to condense their programme into five
days; with much to achieve in a tight time frame, the team got
straight to work.
Four 20,000 litre water tanks were underslung and moved
to small and remote islands on the west and east side of Upolu.
An 800kg generator to power communications equipment was
also underslung and moved to Manono Island, 10kms off the
coast of Upolu.
SQNLDR Marcel Scott, Utility Flight Commander, said that
the weight of the generator was right at the limit of what the
Huey could carry. “The generator lift was both a good training
opportunity for our personnel, and great for the villagers who
received it. They’d been trying to get that out there for six
months, so it was a really big deal to them to have it finally
arrive.”
Scientists were flown to a location near a volcano; their
aim was to gather data to support having the area declared a
natural heritage site.
14
Air Force News
The second to last day of flying was 01 June, when the
Samoan 50 th Anniversary of Independence celebrations
started, with the big parade before Samoa’s Head of State,
His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, and foreign
dignitaries. Rotation Two provided nine personnel as RNZAF
representatives for the parade, which took place under baking
sun for two and a half hours. Two helicopters were scheduled
for a flypast, but as the formalities stretched out much longer
than expected, the flypast was cancelled.
Despite the reduced time frame for Rotation Two, SQNLDR
Ben Stephens, Rotation Two Detachment Commander, said
that the majority of the aims of the exercise were achieved in
preparation for OP KUMUL including MAF clean-up and the
pack-down of the airframes for their return.
“We proved the deployable CIS packup, including groundto-air communications, DIXS and Internet via satellite, and
the stand-alone set up. We achieved tropical currency for
our aircrew, including emergency training, and we’re better
prepared to support OP KUMUL.”
WGCDR Clark says the OP KUMUL deployment to Papua
New Guinea will be a great opportunity for the Squadron.
“No. 3 Squadron has been routinely called upon to put this
tropical training to the test, including peacekeeping missions
in Bougainville, Timor-Leste and the Solomon Islands, as well
as disaster relief in various locations around the Pacific. OP
KUMUL will be a fantastic opportunity for those aircrew on the
operation to utilise the skills honed on Ex TROPIC ASTRA, and
serves to illustrate the importance of tropical flying training
for helicopter crews.”
Meanwhile back in New Zealand…
Left: An Iroquois is surrounded by blowing snow
(from the rotor downdraft) as it touches down to
pick up a search teams during the National SAREX
[Search and Rescue exercise] run by the NZ Police
at Dip Flat, Marlborough. The Iroquois was involved
from 15-17 May, to shift search teams around
while they were looking for four ‘lost trampers’ in
the exercise. The Iroquois crew were: FLTLT Kane
Sanson (Captain) FLTLT Chris Hall (Co-pilot) with
F/S Andrew Gaskin & SGT Andrew Richardson RAF
(on Longlook exchange) as Crewmen.
Bottom left: Iroquois assist Naval Mine
Countermeasures Task
In late April No. 3 Sqn conducted airborne delivery
of naval divers during Mine Counter-Measures
training in Tauranga Bay, Northland. The Divers
were training to dispose of a drifting mine. ODR
Tom Nobes is the man in the water in this photo.
Below: Exercise ALAM HALFA involved some 1500
personnel in maritime, land and airmobile forces,
our biggest joint exercise in 15 years. Embedded
within NZDF units were personnel from the UK,
Canada and Australia along with a US Army platoon
and specialist US Marine Corps personnel.
“ALAM HALFA focused on contemporary operations
brining together maritime, air mobile and land
forces together in a single scenario,” said 1st (NZ)
Brigade Commander Colonel Chris Parsons. “These
exercises allow us to prepare for a variety of likely
contingencies—to ensure that New Zealand can
play its part in reducing conflict and improving
stability.”
Exercise ALAM HALFA was named for Rommel’s
last offensive of August 1942, before his defeat at
the Battle of El Alamein. The Desert Air Force of the
RAF played a key part in holding off the Afrika Korps.
Air Force News
15
Regional Security
Multi-National Exercises
FLYING IN
EXERCISE
BERSAMA
SHIELD
By FGOFF Deborah Haines, No. 5 Sqn
A night scene at RMAF Butterworth as an RAAF
Orion starts engines before a night sortie.
Photo: RAAF
H
osted by the Singapore and Malaysian Armed Forces,
the Bersama series Exercises are bi-annual events
that No. 5 Squadron regularly takes parrt in. New
Zealand is a member of the Five Power Defence Arrangements
(FPDA), alongside the host nations and Australia and the United
Kingdom. This April I was fortunate to go to Malaysia for two
weeks to participate in Exercise BERSAMA SHIELD 2012,
working alongside our Australian counterparts at RMAF Base
Butterworth.
We deployed our Orion to Malaysia in good time, so that
before the exercise proper began, our crew were able to fly two
patrols in the South China Sea and Malacca Straits to refresh
our ability to handle the high density environment with many
contacts. In contrast New Zealand waters have comparatively
few contacts, across a much larger area.
During the second of these patrols the crew received
a distress message from a nearby vessel for a man lost
overboard. The P-3K was quickly turned in the direction to
help with the search, subsequently finding a strobe light in the
water that allowed a nearby vessel to find the missing man [see
AFN 137, June].
During the exercise we undertook Anti-Submarine and AntiSurface warfare flights, working both alongside and against
the other exercise participants for six flights over the South
China Sea. Among the participants were three warships, an
Australian submarine, two RAAF AP-3C Orions and a B737
Wedgetail AEW&C from Australia, along with a DA20 from the
UK, as well as various types of fighter jet aircraft.
16
Air Force News
A pair of F/A 18 had been specifically
tasked to locate and engage us while
we conducted strike direction against
the enemy surface force.
The types of sorties we flew included:
• working for surface vessels to prosecute the submarine,
• working for the submarine to locate the surface vessels,
and
• strike direction for incoming fighter aircraft.
Our final flight of the exercise had a twist nobody was
expecting: a pair of F/A 18 had been specifically tasked to
locate and engage us while we conducted strike direction
against the enemy surface force. This forced us to put all our
tactics to the test, and formulate a plan so that we could still
provide a service to the incoming waves of fighter aircraft
without getting intercepted ourselves.
It worked—the surface vessels were ‘destroyed’ and we
escaped the F/A-18s!
Overall Exercise BERSAMA SHIELD was a success. It allowed
us to achieve quality crew training with over 50 hours flown,
and served to further strengthen our ties with our fellow FPDA
members.
For our crew this should be the last time they will deploy to
an exercise on the P-3K; the next time you read an article about
our operations in South East Asia it should be all about the
P-3K2!
BOLD ALLIGATOR 2012
BOLD ALLIGATOR 2012 (BA12) was the
largest US amphibious exercise in over
a decade. For most of that time the US
military has been fighting wars in the
deserts and mountainous regions in Iraq
and Afghanistan. The intent of BA12 was
to get back to basics and revitalise the US
Navy and US Marine Corps’ capability to
conduct amphibious operations.
The scenario had the fictional nation of Amber under attack
by its belligerent neighbour Garnet. The US and its allies were
deployed; the Blue-Green (Navy-Marine) fighting machine was
called into action. The scenario was fiction, but for the Marines
coming off the amphibious assault ships the ship-to-shore
movement was a very real and difficult task.
The scenario was not simple for the naval force either—a
significant mine threat, submarines, coastal defence cruise
missiles (CDCM), Fast Attack Craft (FAC) and Fast Inshore
Attach Craft (FIAC) combined with a host of other asymmetric
and conventional threats made for a significant ‘anti-access
area denial’ (A2AD) problem for the amphibious invasion force
to overcome.
BA12 was played out earlier this year along the coasts
of Virginia and North Carolina. Participating in the exercise
were around 25 ships, including the USS ENTERPRISE with
Carrier Strike Group Twelve (CSG-12) and the USS WASP
with Expeditionary Strike Group Two (ESG-2) as well as mine
hunters, cruisers, destroyers, transport, supply and support
ships to demonstrate the sea basing concept. Upwards of
20,000 personnel were involved, including sailors, soldiers and
marines from several other allied countries including the UK,
Canada, France, Australia, the Netherlands and New Zealand.
For the NZDF the exercise represented a fantastic
opportunity. Not only to actively participate in a large scale
US military exercise, but to increase our knowledge and
experience in amphibious operations as we continue to
develop our own modest amphibious capability.
Ten NZDF staff officers were selected for the execution
phase of BA12—four each from both the RNZN and NZ Army
who were embedded with the Amphibious Task Force (CATF)
and Landing Force (CLF) staffs respectively on the USS WASP.
Two RNZAF officers were selected to work in the USN-run
Combined Air Operations Centre (CAOC) located ashore in a
Joint Expeditionary Base close to Norfolk, Virginia.
The CAOC was responsible for the tasking and
co-ordination of hundreds of live and synthetic, fixed and
rotary wing, land and carrier-based, tactical and strategic,
manned and unmanned air assets encompassing the full
spectrum of US military air and space assets. One of the
RNZAF officers explained that the Air Tasking Order is pretty
complicated to develop and so they worked as long as required
to produce each day’s ATO. The aircraft they tasked included
the P-8A Poseidon Multi-Mission Aircraft—which made its
exercise debut on BA12. As well, the new Osprey tilt-rotor
transport was used by the Marines from the USS WASP and its
operations also came under the CAOC.
The Kiwi participants commented that, overall, BA12 proved
to be a fantastic opportunity and the knowledge gained should
assist the NZDF. Our corporate knowledge for amphibious
operations has been significantly enhanced as we move
towards operating our Joint Amphibious Task Force by 2015.
The aircraft carrier USS ENTERPRISE (CVN 65) with two guided-missile
destroyers during Exercise BOLD ALLIGATOR 2012. The aircaft on deck
include EA-6 Prowlers, F/A-18E Hornets and F/A-18 ‘classic’ Hornets. Air
operations were coordinated by the Combined Air Operations Centre
Photo US Navy
Air Force News
17
Warrant Officer of the Air Force
Operation Antarctica
THE NZDF
ROLES IN
ANTARCTICA
“...there is now an added
dimension with the requirement
for W/Os to operate alongside
command at the strategic level.”
WOAF
By LTCDR David Washer
By W/O Denis Moratti,
Warrant Officer of the Air Force.
THE COMMAND WARRANT OFFICER
T
he Command Warrant Officer (CWO) concept was
implemented in 2009 to provide a structure around the
Warrant Officer (W/O) rank and a formalised functional
network across commands, thus recognising and adapting to
the changes brought about by Project Refocus in 2001. Driven
by recent organisational change, further refinement of the
structure was carried out in 2012. The CWO positions were
repositioned from the Squadrons to the Wings and the number
of CWOs was reduced from the original total of 12, down to six.
This latest change delivers a number of benefits. The
number of Warrant Officers has significantly reduced over the
last six years and this is now reflected in the number of CWOs,
thus providing a more sustainable ratio. It complements the
proposed NZDF W/O Structure and provides competitive
alignment with the Army and Navy and alignment with some of
our closest allies. The CWO will be now working at a strategic
level while still being connected to the operational and tactical
environment. Overall, this change has provided for a more
robust and sustainable CWO structure and addresses the
challenges surrounding the preparation of W/Os for strategic
roles within the NZDF.
Our Defence Force recognises the wealth of experience
and organisational knowledge that the W/O brings to the
table and W/Os are now expected to be fully contributing and
integral members of the Command and Leadership Teams. The
creation of further Warrant Officer positions at the strategic
Headquarters level— Warrant Officer Joint Forces (WOJF) and
Warrant Officer Logistics Command (WOLOG)—underpins the
Chief of Defence Force’s expectation that W/Os will contribute
at the highest levels of the organisation. In the main, although
the traditional W/O role has not substantially changed, there
is now an added dimension with the requirement for W/Os to
operate alongside command at the strategic level.
18
Air Force News
The individual roles of the CWO can vary depending on the
respective commands and environments. They are clearly
part of the command team and play a major leadership role
within their Wing, Base and the wider RNZAF. The training,
experiences and skill sets of the Commander and their CWO
are complementary. Generally, the officer on a senior career
track has spent less time in direct contact with the majority of
Air Force personnel, as their command roles carry more rapidly
to the institutional leadership field. The CWO has enormous
experience in dealing with people. As a result, the Command
team looks at issues and problems from different angles, thus
enabling deeper analysis of issues and creating more effective
decisions.
On a day-to-day basis, the CWO operates as an integral part
of the HQ team, contributing to the outputs of the Wing. This
allows them to continue in their core W/O roles as an advisor
to command on matters of discipline, welfare and morale, and
represent appropriate issues to command on behalf of our
Airmen and Airwomen.
The CWO strengthens the link between my role as WOAF
and our Airmen and Airwomen and, as well, provides a crossfunctional network across the Wings. The CWO structure
provides a platform for preparing W/Os for the next level and
ultimately presents the Non-Commissioned Ranks with the
opportunity to advance their careers further through the
NZDF.
The new CWO structure will also enhance the critical role
that W/Os play in looking after our people and delivering
outputs at the operational and tactical levels. The structure
ensures that our W/Os’ considerable knowledge and
experience is put to even better effect in shaping the future
direction of the RNZAF and NZDF as a whole.
During the 2011/12 summer season, 170 NZDF personnel
deployed to Antarctica, from all three Services. The unique
Antarctic environment never fails to surprise; everyone
remembers the first time they step off the plane and almost
all hear themselves instinctively shout “Wow!” [See SGT Gid
Wych’s story page 28.]
The Antarctic ‘wow’ factor has been experienced by
relatively few people yet we in the NZDF have the
opportunity and privilege of joining them. Many of the roles
listed here are not trade or rank specific so, if you would like
to be part of this unique mission, talk with your supervisor
or career manager.
The Scott Base Support Team
The Senior National Officer is responsible for all NZDF
personnel in Antarctica and also has a civilian role within
Antarctica NZ as the Operations Scheduler.
The Cargo Handler is an Air Force SNCO in a sole charge
position managing all cargo and passenger movements into
and out of Scott Base.
Two Army Plant Operators drive the heavy plant machinery
at Scott Base.
Four Communications Operators. These four are at the
core of Scott Base operations and the voice on the radio or
telephone for those on field operations and people contacting
Scott Base from NZ or the rest of the World.
McMurdo Station
The Light Engineering Team at McMurdo Station—their
time on ice and trade make-up varies each season.
The US Supply Department at McMurdo is assisted by
NZDF personnel deployed as the General Assistance Team.
Last season they were in two groups, the first group of seven
spending almost the whole season in Antarctica. The second
group spent two weeks at McMurdo Station, to assist with
cargo vessel stores distribution.
In February each year a cargo vessel delivers stores to
McMurdo Station and Scott Base. NZDF personnel assist the
offload in two elements:
The Driver Support Team operate eleven trucks for carrying
containers between the wharf and McMurdo or Scott Base.
The Ship Offload Team of 25 works as part of a multinational team moving containers between the vessel and
trucks in two 12-hour shifts.
An RNZAF Airdrop Rigging Team helps USAF C-17 crews
maintain currency for airdrop operations to the South Pole.
The team deploys for around 10 days to rig loads at McMurdo
Station.
Harewood Terminal
The Harewood Terminal Team are in Christchurch, where
they manage all airborne passengers and cargo to and from
Antarctica. While they do not deploy to Antarctica, they are
integral to our partnership with the US Antarctic Programme.
The NZDF has been exceptionally well represented by those
deploying to Antarctica in recent years and the ethos and work
ethic of our people invariably draws positive comment from US
authorities. You can be part of this annual commitment!
Air Force News
19
Three of our senior officers were visitors to Ex BOLD ALLIGATOR: AVM
Graham Lintott, the Defence Adviser in Washington DC, MAJ GEN Dave
Gawn, COMJFNZ, and CDRE John Martin, MCC. See story on p 17.
FGOFF Deborah Haines of No.5
Sqn attended Ex BERSAMA
SHIELD, her story is on p 16.
The NH90 stars in the new RNZAF recruiting video; it
was filmed at Whenuapai with the Fire Flight providing
the water spray over the cold and wet camera crew!
Comedian David Fane, seen here with
AC Laura Kjestrup, entertained Base
Auckland staff on World Smoke-Free
Day, 31 May; an initiative of Occupational
Health Nurse Jeraldine Fernandez of
the Directorate of Safety and Health
supported by the Waitemata Primary
Health Organisation. Base Auckland has
seen 21 smokers successfully quit.
The Hobsonville Hardman was run on
5 June. 86 personnel took part—for
fun, adventure and to get down and
dirty! Hardman Winner: AC Sam Mason;
Hardwoman Winner: FGOFF Joe Atkinson.
MAJGEN Ozturk, from Turkey, was taken
for a flight by SQNLDR Paul Stockley in
the Historic Flight’s Tiger Moth, during
the General’s visit to NZ for Anzac Day
ceremonies
The Central Band of the RNZAF paraded
at the National War Memorial during the
ceremonies marking the 70 th Anniversary
of the US Marines’ arrival in NZ in 1942
‘Beat Retreat’ at Base Auckland
on 28 April, as part of the Base’s
75th Anniversary events
On board HMNZS OTAGO, the First of
Class Flight Trials crew gathered for a
team photo, 27 May. See story p 11
20
Air Force News
The RNZAF rugby side retained the Burn-Merz Shield
on 25 May from the RAAF; the 10 th contest for the
Shield. Final score 27-9. The team would like to say a
big ‘thank you’ to all the supporters, everyone who
helped with the set-up, and to their sponsors. A full
report next month
SGT Gid Wych, Air Movements
Ohakea (l ) and SGT Barry Williams,
RAAF Air Movements, work together
for No.3 Sqn’s deployment to PNG.
See story p6
When the NH90 came to Whenuapai on
08 May for the recruiting filming, it was of
great interest to many of our personnel
Dr Peter Greener of the NZDF Staff College talks
to Force Protection staff LAC Dan Morton and
CPL Anj Young. The Joint Command and Staff
Course undertook an NZ Study Tour during May
2012 to see NZDF operational capabilities
Air Force News
21
Diamond Jubilee
Diamond Jubilee
HIP, HIP,
HOORAY!
This year our Sovereign is celebrating sixty years on the throne; at
RNZAF Base Ohakea the Queen’s Colour was paraded on 2 June,
one of several links between our Air Force and the Crown.
No.488 Wing paraded the
Queen’s Colour of the
RNZAF before the Chief
of Air Force. The parade
featured the Royal Standard
flying from the masthead
of the Base flagstaff, and
a rousing ‘three cheers’
for Her Majesty from the
assembled airmen and
women.
22
Air Force News
After reviewing the parade, Air
Vice-Marshal Peter Stockwell said: “It
gives me great pleasure to celebrate
with you the birthday of our Sovereign
and Head of State, Elizabeth II, Queen
of New Zealand. This year of course we
celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee,
an impressive 60 years on the throne, at
the same time as the RNZAF celebrates
its 75th anniversary.
“As Head of State, Queen Elizabeth’s
formal New Zealand title is: ‘Elizabeth
the Second, by the Grace of God,
Queen of New Zealand and Her Other
Realms and Territories, Head of the
Commonwealth, Defender of the
Faith.’ New Zealand’s Head of State is
non-partisan and therefore not involved
in the ‘business’ of government, which is
the responsibility of the Prime Minister
and the Cabinet. This arrangement is
best described by the saying that ‘while
the Sovereign reigns, the Government
rules.’
“Our role as the RNZAF is to support
the government in protecting New
Zealand’s security interests, including
our territorial integrity, border
inviolability, as well as civil peace,
through the delivery of effective military
air operations.
“The 75 years of history between
the Royal New Zealand Air Force and
the Royal Family is rich in tradition and
I am glad that you have continued this
tradition today with the parading of the
Queen’s Colour as it not only helps us
acknowledge the connection with our
Sovereign, but also celebrates your
achievements as a base.
“This Queen’s Birthday parade
allows us to reflect on our history and
traditions, and our service and allegiance
– some of our core values – and so
more clearly define our linkage to the
Crown. I am very proud of all of the
personnel in today’s Air Force, just as
I am proud of the veterans and former
Service men and women who have built
our story towards our vision to be New
Zealand’s Air Force – Ready, Resilient and
Respected.”
LEFT: The Royal Standard is lowered by CPL Ian Toms (l)
and SGT Shane Barton (r).
The Drum Major and drummers lead the parade of the
Queens Colour through Base Ohakea on Friday 01 June
QUEEN’S
BIRTHDAY AND
DIAMOND
JUBILEE
HONOURS 2012
TO RECEIVE THE NEW ZEALAND DISTINGUISHED
SERVICE DECORATION (DSD):
Squadron Leader Aaron Douglas Benton, Royal New Zealand Air Force
Squadron Leader Benton (then in the
rank of Flight Lieutenant) was serving
with No. 5 Squadron in September
2010, when a request was received to
prepare an aircraft for a winter aeromedical evacuation from Antarctica. As
an experienced P-3K Orion instructor
pilot, he was called on to undertake this
mission.
The patient, an American working
at McMurdo Station, was seriously ill
and in need of specialist medical care.
The Orion left Christchurch to begin
the mission on Sunday 12 September,
with weather conditions expected to
deteriorate approximately four hours
after the aircraft’s scheduled departure
from Antarctica. However, over the
space of 15 minutes during the flight
south, separate observations showed
increasingly blizzard-like conditions.
SQN LDR Benton therefore made the
decision to turn back. After two days,
the weather cleared and a successful
landing was made. Faced with an outside
temperature of -47ºC, he had a number
of factors relating to crew safety to
consider when operating in such a harsh
and unfamiliar environment.
Functions such as loading the
patient, refuelling, starting, taxiing and
take-off all had to be carefully planned
and executed, as well as contingencies
for aircraft technical issues and
emergencies. SQN LDR Benton’s
planning and attention to detail ensured
that the aircraft and crew remained safe
at all times, despite operating at the
extremes of both human and equipment
performance.
NZDF Honours
SQNLDR Benton
Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM)
Colonel Hugh Trengrove, for services to forensic science.
The New Zealand Distinguished Service Decoration (DSD):
Lieutenant Colonel Hugh McAslan, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment
Major David Ackroyd, Royal New Zealand Army Logistic Regiment (The Duke of York’s Own)
Lieutenant Layamon Bakewell Royal New Zealand Navy
Warrant Officer Class One Christopher Wilson, Royal New Zealand Army Logistic
Regiment (The Duke of York’s Own)
Air Force News
23
Diamond Jubilee
RAF Avro Shackleton maritime reconnaissance
aircraft fly over Odiham during the Coronation
Review of the RAF in 1953
THE QUEEN’S
CORONATION, 1953
The RNZAF was represented at
Her Majesty The Queen’s Coronation
with a party of 38 personnel, including
three WAAFs, under the command of
WGCDR D F St George DFC. The RNZAF
contingent were part of a New Zealand
tri-Service group totalling 183, who had
all sailed to the UK in HMNZS BLACK
PRINCE and HMAS SYDNEY (which also
carried the Australian contingent). As
well, a civilian New Zealand Band went
to the UK for the Coronation (the only
civilian band in the Coronation parade).
The following month the young
Queen reviewed the Royal Air Force at
RAF Station Odiham, where the RCAF
and RAAF contributed to the flypast, and
the RNZAF was represented in the static
display. The event remains the largest
display of military airpower ever seen in
the UK.
The static aircraft park of 380
aircraft was inspected by the Queen,
accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh.
At that time our Air Force was taking
delivery of new Bristol B170 Freighters,
so Bristol Freighter Mk31E, NZ5909 from
No. 41 Sqn, represented the RNZAF.
24
Air Force News
According to the Contact* magazine’s
reporter, Ropata Kirimuwutu, the
Queen had a tight schedule to keep, but
would ‘stop occasionally to speak with
pre-selected aircrew.’ It was planned
that the Queen would spend just two
minutes inspecting the RNZAF aircraft
and its crew.
The RNZAF party had been at
Odiham for a fortnight preparing their
aircraft, rehearsing for the parade and
march-past and being briefed for their
introduction to the Queen. The surfaces
of the Freighter were literally mirror-like
and the team had even scrubbed the
tarmac beneath the aircraft.
Her Majesty and the Duke of
Edinburgh talked with FLT LT K R
Orsborn, Captain of the Bristol Freighter.
Surveying the high blunt nose of NZ5909
the Queen asked if it were a double
decker; ‘Where do you live?’ When the
captain indicated the lofty cockpit
the Duke asked if the aircraft could be
opened up for a view. The Engineer, SGT
J G Lockwood, opened the loading doors
and the Queen and the Duke displayed
great interest in the fact that the aircraft
could carry vehicles, troops and general
freight.
Quipped the Duke, “This is not the
aircraft you are entering in the air race,
is it?” [The chubby Bristol Freighter
looked anything but fast; at the time the
imminent London-Christchurch air race
was very much in the news. In fact the
RNZAF had entered a Hastings transport
in the event.]
The others of the crew, Navigator
FG OFF R M MacDonnell and Wireless
Operator SGT S A Winter, had remained
at attention during the Queen’s
inspection. [All four were thrilled with
the Queen and Duke’s interest.] Said FL
LT Orsborn, “She was scheduled to stay
only two minutes with us. She stretched
it to five!”
Following the Queen’s inspection,
the flypast of over 640 aircraft of the
RAF and Commonwealth Air Forces took
place, including no less than 192 Gloster
Meteor fighters!
* Contact, the National Magazine of the
NZ Air Force Association, October 1953.
The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh—
as Marshal of the RNZAF—in 2006 at the
dedication of the NZ War Memorial.W/O
Wallace is the Cultural Adviser with the Queen
Air Commodore-in-Chief Prince Charles in
1983, with AVM David Crooks and, as Guard
Commander, FLTLT Stockwell
Two member of the Royal Family are officers in the RNZAF: Marshal of the Royal New
Zealand Air Force His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and Air
Commodore-in-Chief, Royal New Zealand Air Force His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.
SQUADRON STANDARDS
To mark the 25th anniversary of the
RAF in 1943, King George VI instituted
the RAF Ceremonial Flag, which was to
be known as ‘The Standard’. In 1956 Her
Majesty Elizabeth II affirmed her father’s
decision and approved the award of ‘The
Standard’ to eligible squadrons of the
RNZAF.
The Standard may be awarded by
order of the Sovereign to a RNZAF
Squadron qualifying in one of the two
following respects:
• by completion of 25 years of service
in the RNZAF (including any period of
existence as a unit of the RAF); or
• by having earned the Sovereign’s
appreciation for especially
outstanding operations.
The Standards of the current RNZAF
squadrons, Nos 5, 40, 3 and 42 Sqn,
were described in AF News 136, May
2012. Each was approved by Her Majesty
and two were presented by members
of the Royal Family. However the
Standards presented to the RNZAF’s
now-disbanded Squadrons also
represent another royal link.
The first Standard for an RNZAF
Squadron was presented to No. 75
Squadron at Palmerston North on 06
February 1958 by Her Majesty Queen
Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
No. 14 Squadron’s Standard was
approved by the Queen in April 1969
and was presented at Ohakea on 25
April 1972 by the Governor-General and
Commander-in-Chief, His Excellency Sir
Arthur Porritt, GCMG, GCVO, CBE
No. 41 Squadron’s Standard was
approved in August 1970 and presented
by the Chief of Air Staff, AVM D.F. St
George CBE, DFC, AFC, at a special
service held in St Michael’s Church, RAF
Tengah, Singapore on 10 August 1972.
No. 1 Squadron’s Standard was
approved in 1981. It was presented at
RNZAF Base Auckland on 17 February
1984 by Sir Geoffrey Roberts CBE, AFC,
LM(US), RNZAF (Rtd).
No. 2 Squadron’s Standard was
approved by The Queen in 1995. It was
presented at Ohakea on 31 July 1998 by
the Governor-General and Commanderin-Chief, His Excellency The Right
Honourable Sir Michael Hardie Boys,
GNZM, GCMG.
The Queen Mother presents the No. 75
Sqn Standard during her visit in 1958
Air Force News
25
RNZAF Training
Our People
A NIGHT TO
REMEMBER
CORPORAL
COURTNEY SEFO
By Judith Martin, Defence Communications Group
The Logistical Training Squadron
Dining In at Base Woodbourne.
Photo: Ms Hollie Brown, WB photo flight
By SGT Mark du Plessis,
Logistical Training Squadron
The first-ever Logistical Training Squadron
Trainee & Staff Dining In was held on 25 May.
Before the revamp of Ground Training Wing (GTW)
something of a tradition within Electro Technology Squadron
had began forming—during each year the staff would host a
Dining In and they would invite the young airmen and airwomen
along to experience that tradition. With the GTW restructure,
Logistical Training Squadron (LTS) has been formed, a newer,
bigger and more effective unit which now delivers almost all
ground trades’ Trade Training.
The young airmen and airwomen who chose this night out
with their instructors would find it forms part of the Air Force
culture and we hope the art of formal dining will be fused into
their minds for all of their avionic careers.
Seventy five years of military aviation airworthiness was
our theme; how that impacts on us as both students and
instructors made for good talking points. Our guest speaker
was our Officer Commanding, SQNLDR Trevor Hammond,
who shared with us the impact we have on Airworthiness and
just how important those repetitive training objectives are
in our culture. They form the very cornerstone for the job we
do in the RNZAF and simple steps like tool control add to the
26
Air Force News
integrity and culture we carry with us for the rest of our lives.
AC Ryan Wardlaw exercised the Trainees’ Right of Reply
and shared some of the experiences he had gained between
his Mechanics and Technicians courses. He spoke in particular
about his time with No. 6 Squadron and his travels onboard
the Navy’s ships. Sailing in the vast deep oceans, miles from
land and other vessels, the Seasprite helicopter would often
lift off and operate as far as 80 nautical miles from the ship.
Bearing in mind the only rescue for the Seasprite helicopter
crew is the ship itself and that should things go horribly
wrong, it would take the ship quite some time to reach their
location, there is no room for error and airworthiness is of
paramount importance. He explained that there is no room
for compromise and it all begins with the training provided by
GTW.
The evening ended with the traditional fines, conducted by
AC Simon Nelson (Mr Vice for the evening). FGOFF Ben Tingey
(Flight Commander Aircraft Training Flight) was not excused
with the Top Table but kept back to face the judgement of Mr
Vice! The night was ended at the Chevron Lounge where all
those attending mingled and relaxed, bringing a successful
Dining-In to a close.
C
orporal Courtney Sefo joined our
Air Force because it promised
the combination of travel with
a rewarding career. But for the former
Kapiti Coast resident it has provided
much more. “It’s the people you get to
meet, the friends you make and the fact
you are given opportunities to do things
you would never get to do as a civilian.”
CPL Sefo is of Samoan descent
through her father, Joe, a former Kapiti
Coast policeman. She joined the Air
Force straight out of college nine years
ago, and is now an Air Movements
Operator based at Whenuapai.
Her role, she says, requires her to
be well-organised and work as part of
a team. “Aircraft come in and leave at
set times and Air Movement Operators
have to load and unload them, establish
what equipment is needed, and who
is travelling where. Sometimes there
are pallets of freight to be taken off or
loaded on, or passengers who need to be
organised.
“I love my workplace though. When
a job needs to be done everyone plays
their part to get it done.”
Last year CPL Sefo deployed to the
Middle East for six months, and worked
on aircraft transporting personnel and
equipment to Afghanistan. Shortly after
she returned she deployed to drought-
stricken Tuvalu to help deliver portable
equipment which turns salt water into
fresh water [see AF News 131 November
2011]. Other deployments have taken
her to northern Australia, Malaysia and
the USA.
As a keen sportswoman she has
travelled to Australia representing the
Air Force at netball, and to Hong Kong for
dragon boating.
Courtney says the Air Force
encourages its personnel to maintain
their cultural identity and she is an active
member of her base Kapa Haka group.
She has travelled to Gallipoli as part of
the NZDF Kapa Haka team, which she
says was an “awesome experience”.
The Air Force also encourages its
personnel to progress throughout
their career, she says, offering various
courses and professional development.
Her pre-deployment training has been
particularly interesting. ”We are trained
in using different types of weaponry, and
also taught about Nuclear, Biological and
Chemical warfare. Where else except
the military would you get those kinds of
experiences?”
She lives in Air Force accommodation
on base, as do her sister and brotherin-law who are also in the Air Force.
“It can be a very social place—there is
always someone around to talk to.”
CPL Sefo says she would encourage
any young Pacific Islander with a yen for
adventure and camaraderie to consider
joining the Air Force. “If they try their
hardest and keep positive, then once
they are in they’ll love it!
Director of Recruiting CDR Nigel
Philpott says it is important that all
New Zealanders see the opportunity
for challenging and rewarding
careers in the Defence Force.
“I am particularly looking for leaders
and self-motivated people from all
sections of society. For that reason I
recently met with Colin Tukuitonga,
the Chief Executive of the Ministry of
Pacific Island Affairs, to discuss ways
to encourage those of Pacific Island
descent to consider a career with
Defence.”
If Courtney’s story interests you,
then take a look at:
www.defencecareers.mil.nz.
The staff at Defence Careers reach
out to a wide range of people across
New Zealand for entry into the Navy,
Army, and Air Force, or Defence
civilian jobs. They recruit around
2000 personnel each year into a
diverse range of jobs and trades.
Air Force News
27
Operation Antarctic
Three of the Light Engineering Team
undertake a task at McMurdo Station
F/S Sean Smith marshalling a loader
with a pallet for an RNZAF C-130
By SGT Gid Wych,
Air Movements Section Ohakea,
No.209 (Expeditionary Support) Squadron
Loading the Canadian Basler DC3
CARGO
HANDLING IN
THE FREEZER!
Sometime around July 2010 my Flight
Sergeant came into my office in Main Store
Ohakea and said “I’m afraid you didn’t get
the Bagram post you were after; however,
the career managers have asked would you
consider Scott Base, Op Antarctica?”
Disappointment and elation from one short sentence! There
was only one possible answer and so began my great adventure
to the frozen wilderness that is Antarctica.
First stage: two weeks Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) in
Christchurch. This wasn’t PDT with weapons (the penguins are
considered friendly!) packs and mess tins (the food at Scott
Base is legendary). This was more of a team-building exercise
with one week of Antarctic Awareness Training at Antarctica
New Zealand (ANTNZ) followed by one week’s intensive Fire
Fighting Training.
I’ll never forget my first arrival on the frozen continent. The
flight down on the USAF C-17 had been an uneventful 5 hour
trip with only glimpses of what was to come through the small
portholes on the rear Para doors. As the C-17 came to a halt
28
Air Force News
and the front crew door was opened, we first-timers stepped
off with a sense of trepidation. How cold would it be? Am I
wearing the enough cold weather clothing?
It was a bright blue sky day with an unrestricted view of Ross
Island and Mount Erebus. The temperature was probably about
-20ºC but the clothing we had been issued by ANTNZ did its job
well. What made it even more amazing was we had just landed
the C-17 on 3 metres of sea ice over the icy depths of the Ross
Sea!
The first few days were a period of settling in, taking over
from the Scott Base Winter Crew. In the first week everyone
went through a two-day Antarctic Survival Course which
entailed spending a night out in -25ºC temperatures under a
canvas polar tent that has changed little in design since they
were used by Captain Scott and his team. The survival training
was another great team-building exercise—we learned about
each other and I suspect a lot about ourselves. Everybody
came back from their night out buzzing with excitement and
keen to discover more about the unique environment.
Early in the season the temperatures are still in the -20s,
with plenty of spectacular snow storms. Every trip over the
hill to McMurdo was a case of logistical planning; did you have
SGT Wych after a climbing a
peak at Inaccessible island
SGT Wych on a Skidoo
your emergency pack of cold weather clothing and boots in the
vehicle with you? Have you signed out? It is only a couple of
kilometres but it’s quite possible to get stranded on the road in
a complete white-out that’s blown up from nowhere and may
last just 5 minutes or, for 5 days!
The working week at Scott Base is a 6 day week with most
people getting Sunday off, however this can vary depending
on aircraft movements and on science events. But everyone
mucks in and any overtime (a frequent occurrence for the
Cargo Handler) is made up for in one form or another.
Sundays are when the ‘Fam Trips’ are organised; these range
from visits by Hagglund to the historic huts of Shackleton and
Scott at Cape Royds and Cape Evans, climbing Castle Rock
and Tent Island or being lowered down seemingly bottomless
crevasses on a ‘thin piece of string’. Our Antarctic Field
Trainers assured me it was the finest climbing rope, but they
would, wouldn’t they!
Later in the season, when the ANTNZ helicopter arrives, a
programme of flights is put together and everyone at Scott
Base may get a flight out to some of the science destinations.
These include the Dry Valleys (spectacular scenery and huge
glaciers) and the huge Adele Penguin Colony at Cape Bird (a
magical place where you can wander amongst the thousands
of penguins and see their newborn chicks, and ice flows being
used as diving platforms by the comical Adeles). The Emperor
Penguins arrive later in the season, whereas the little Adele is
the Charlie Chaplin of the penguin world.
The work of the Cargo Handler involves frequent trips
(almost daily) over the hill to McMurdo, dropping off and picking
up cargo in the trusty Isuzu flatbed or for smaller loads the V8
Toyota Ute. The cargo varies from strange scientific pieces of
equipment (usually awkward and bulky) to frozen core samples
and live fish that require hand delivery to the aircraft. There’s a
great sense of satisfaction when you get word back that all the
An Emperor penguin stands
guard at Scott Base
The cargo varies from strange
scientific pieces of equipment
(usually awkward and bulky) to
frozen core samples and live fish
fish reach their destination alive.
It is the Cargo Handler’s responsibility to check that all the
permits for samples are correct and everything is in order for
their return to New Zealand. Dangerous Air Cargo is another
responsibility that involves close cooperation with your
counterpart at Science Cargo over in McMurdo; some items
cannot be shipped aboard USAF aircraft, e.g. non-US cylinders
which have to wait for the Kiwi C-130. It is up to the Scott Base
Cargo Handler to package and certify the consignment.
As well as the C130 you can expect to be involved with loads
for the Twin Otter and Basler—which is a heavily modified DC3
Dakota that can often access places where the C-130 cannot
go!
One of the things on ’the Ice’ is the diversity of people,
from scientists passing through Scott Base to the folk over
the hill in ‘Mactown’ (as McMurdo is fondly referred to). There
are countless interesting characters each with a tale to tell.
The sense of community spirit is strong; you can expect
to celebrate Halloween (costume essential) Thanksgiving
(uniquely American and a great feed) and Christmas, all in great
style. A highlight of the tour was seeing midnight on New Year’s
Eve in 24-hour daylight at the coolest show on the continent,
Ice Stock—the most southerly rock concert in the world!
I was lucky; I got to repeat my Antarctic adventure with a
second season 2011/2012. But my family says I need to have a
Christmas at home. Yet Antarctica has a way of getting in your
blood and I have high hopes that one way or another (in the
words of Mr A Schwarzenegger) “I’ll be back!”
Air Force News
29
Briefings
Briefings
By SGT AJ ‘Richie’ Richardson,
Royal Air Force
The NZDF contingent perform a haka for the MFO
Director General, Ambassador David Satterfield
RNZAF PEACEKEEPERS
NZ DEFENCE FORCE
MARKS 30 YEARS IN
THE SINAI
I
n early May, the NZDF contingent in the Sinai marked 30
years of continuous commitment to the Multinational Force
and Observers (MFO). The MFO is a 12 nation organisation
established to uphold the conditions set down in the Treaty of
Peace signed between Egypt and Israel in 1979.
New Zealand’s initial participation from March 1982 was
an RNZAF contingent which, with the RAAF, formed an Anzac
Helicopter Squadron for Rotary Wing Air Support of the MFO.
Our Defence Force’s current contribution is a contingent of 28
personnel, including four RNZAF staff, who provide expertise
in operations, driving and training. Other contributing nations
today include Uruguay, Fiji, Hungary, and Norway.
The NZ Defence Force has made a crucial contribution to
the MFO, and our people have participated with distinction
since the MFO was established 30 years ago, says Commander
Joint Forces NZ, MAJ GEN Dave Gawn. “Our involvement in the
MFO represents a tangible demonstration of New Zealand’s
support for the Middle East peace process.”
As part of the MFO 30th anniversary celebrations, the
Director General of the MFO, Ambassador David Satterfield,
was welcomed onto North Camp, near El Gorah, with a
powhiri performed by the New Zealand contingent. Senior
representatives from Egypt and Israel unveiled a plaque to
mark the anniversary. The current Force Commander of the MFO, MAJ GEN
Warren Whiting, a Kiwi, says while the anniversary is a
significant milestone for the MFO and for the NZDF, it is
business as usual in the Sinai. “With the current uncertainty
in the Middle East, the role of the MFO is even more crucial to
stability in the region. Since the Egyptian revolution both sides
are talking so much more, and the main conduit is through the
MFO.”
No. 3 Sqn group with SGT Richardson (at left)
EXERCISE
LONGLOOK
POLICE COMMISSIONER RECOGNISES NZDF
ROLE IN CHRISTCHURCH EARTHQUAKE
CANADIAN TEAM
BRIEF ON JOINT
INDUCTION
TRAINING
A Canadian Forces Team briefed NZDF Education and
Training personnel on the Canadian Forces’ experience with
common induction training. The aim was to inform NZDF
staff about the Canadian experience, where joint induction
training has been in place for many years. The team was
here at the invitation of VCDF, and the goal is to start an
informed dialogue on common induction, based on the ‘proven
experience’ of an international partner
CDF’s vision for the future of NZDF Training and Education
includes consideration of the introduction of common
induction for NZDF officers and other ranks.
Common induction has important and potentially
30
Air Force News
LTCOL Ermel CF (l) and LTCOL Hartnett
CF ( r ) stand with RA Steer, VCDF,
during their visit to HQNZDF on 6 June
far-reaching consequences, both opportunities and risks, for
single Services and the NZDF, should the NZDF choose what
could be a revolutionary change. Accordingly, the Canadian
briefing team were invited to share their experience with a
wide NZDF audience of instructors and training managers and
command staff.
Long Look 2012 didn’t start quite as planned after delays
on the flight out here. However, New Zealand has definitely
proved worth the wait—my time here so far has surpassed all
of my expectations!
Having spent a lot of time operating in desert
environments, I thoroughly enjoyed the change in my work
as a Helicopter Crewman with No. 3 Sqn. Not only have I been
to Wanaka, Dip Flat and Waiouru, but I have enjoyed the wide
variety of flying that the squadron carries out. In particular
the SAR aspect is something we don’t tend to concentrate
on at No. 78 Sqn, RAF Benson. SGT Darren Bourne, a fellow
Longlooker, was regularly used as a survivor during hoist
training! Other new skill sets I have been exposed to for the
first time in my career include snow operations, fast roping
and rappelling.
My first full day was the Ohakea Air Show where I took the
opportunity to meet a lot of great people and to explore my
home of the next four months. And now we are just back from
the detachment to Samoa, which has added tropical flying to
the list!
Thank you to all I’ve met so far for the help and fantastic
welcome you’ve given me; I have enjoyed meeting so many
in the RNZAF. The four months has proved professionally
challenging and very rewarding.
Police Commissioner Marshall presents the
plaque for the RNZAF to Chief of Air Force
O
n Tuesday 29 May the Police Commissioner Peter
Marshall presented distinctive plaques to the
NZDF, the three Services and HQ Joint Force NZ,
to acknowledge the Police’s appreciation for the support
and commitment of the NZDF to the operations after the
Christchurch earthquake. Speaking to the Defence Force
Leadership Board and other personnel within HQNZDF,
Commissioner Marshall said there are certain poignant
occasions within his police experience, and the joint
commitment of the NZDF and the Police to the citizens of
Christchurch is one that remains vivid for him.
The Police had decided that the presentation of a distinctive
plaque to the key organisations that supported them during
the earthquake aftermath, would be one way of marking
the special linkage. “In the Police we are cognisant of what
you all, throughout the NZDF, did—the range of activities
you undertook: providing ships, aircraft and helicopters;
ambulances and medics, cordon patrols and logistics—directly
in support of the Police, as well as to support citizens in need—
and tasks such as the Army Engineers who prepared the site
for the mortuary at Burnham Camp,” the Commissioner said.
“There is no way we could have met our police responsibilities
in that situation without the support of the NZDF.”
The Commissioner said the many joint exercises that
the Police and Defence Force undertake ensure that the
two organisations can continue to work well together: “My
Executive and I feel we are extremely close to the NZDF.”
CDF noted that this was a special occasion for the Police and
Defence Force relationship and acknowledged the warmth and
commitment underlying these presentations.
Air Force News
31
Obituary
GROUP CAPTAIN
STEWART WHITE,
1941-2012
Stewart White served 17 years with the RNZAF, after
completing a five year contract with the (then fledgling)
Republic of Singapore Air Force and following eight years with
the Fleet Air Arm of the Royal Navy. He finally served nine
years with New Zealand’s Ministry of Defence on Air projects
and ultimately on the F-16 project.
Keen on aviation throughout his boyhood in Manchester,
England, Stew joined the Royal Navy in 1961. He volunteered
for the Fleet Air Arm and had his initial training at Dartmouth.
After flying training, he had five years operational flying,
mostly with 899 Sqn flying Sea Vixens from HMS EAGLE—
including deployments to the Far East Fleet based in
Singapore. While in the FAA Stew become a QFI on Hawker
Hunters.
With the 1967 decision to cancel a new carrier and wind
down the British carrier force, Stew knew it was time to look
elsewhere. In 1969 he returned to S E Asia on contract to the
Republic of Singapore Air Force. In those years, not long after
Confrontation, Singapore had to face the defence problems
created by its unique geography. A skilled and responsive
fighter force was seen as essential; Stew was one of the
contract pilots charged with training the first generation of
Singaporean fighter pilots.
He did so very successfully; Colonel (Rtd) Frank Singam
RSAF recalled:
“Stew served as a Qualified Flying Instructor, an Instrument
Rating Examiner and later as a Flight Commander. Stew was an
exceptional and professional pilot. His basic flying skills and
knowledge were excellent; for example he taught me how to
fly steep turns (60º angle of bank) on instruments with just a
single finger on top of the joy stick; I could never replicate that.
Even at low flying, Stew was the original ‘nap of the earth’ pilot,
following the terrain like he was stuck to it.
32
Air Force News
Air Training Corps
“With such flying skills the Singapore Air Force called on
Stew to perform as a solo aerobatic pilot in the Hunter for
their annual Armed Forces Day; his aerobatic performance was
aggressive and crisp and an example to many who followed.
“Together with other expatriate pilots, Stew did a sterling
job in building up the Hunter Air Defence force in Singapore.
They not only injected high professionalism in the force,
but helped to build a resilient, nimble, ‘think out of the box’
combat-ready fighter force.”
It was in Singapore that Stew came into contact with New
Zealanders; in 1975 at the end of his contract he transitioned
to the RNZAF. He continued his training and mentoring for new
pilots as a QFI with No.14 Sqn, flying Strikemasters from 1975
– 77. In 1978 he undertook a Skyhawk conversion course and
moved to No.75 Sqn, becoming a Flight Commander and being
promoted to Squadron Leader later that same year.
Stew continued with No. 75 Sqn until 1981, when, after
Staff College, he moved into Air Staff. In 1982 he was awarded
the Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Services in the Air,
reflecting his excellent performance with No.75 Sqn.
In 1983 he was promoted and the next year appointed as
Director of Operations in Air Staff, before moving in 1986
as Deputy Project Manager for Project Kahu, the Skyhawk
upgrade.
Project Kahu meant that Stew and his family moved to
Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA, where he and a Ministry of
Defence team oversaw the contractor, Lear Siegler, as they
developed the Skyhawks’ new radar and nav/attack system.
It was personally a happy time and reputedly one of the their
favourite restaurants retained its ‘Kiwi Corner’ for many years
Stew was the original ‘nap of the
earth’ pilot, following the terrain like
he was stuck to it.
after Stew and the Project Kahu team left.
In 1992 Stew left the RNZAF and moved into the Ministry
of Defence where he oversaw various Air projects, ultimately
guiding the F-16 project of 1997. When that project was
cancelled by the new Labour Government, Stew was actually in
Utah, overseeing the reactivation of the selected aircraft. Not
only had the project ended but he was now redundant. Stew
worked for a time with Broadcasting Communications Ltd and
moved to the Wairarapa.
He was a keen Bridge player and golfer, playing with the
competitiveness that characterises a fighter pilot, leavened
by his widely known sense of humour. He also continued as a
mentor and trainer for other players.
In 17 years with the RNZAF and nine years with the Ministry
Stew had given much to the RNZAF and he had similarly given
of his best to the RSAF and the FAA during his first 15 years
of flying. Stew was diagnosed with cancer during 2011, but
continued to play both golf and Bridge for as long as possible.
He was very well regarded in the Air Force and across his
community; fittingly his funeral at Greytown was standing
room only.
CDTW/O Hoult
CDTW/O Brown
ATC CADETS
ATTEND BOMBER
COMMAND
MEMORIAL
DEDICATION
Two ATC Cadets were selected to fly to London as part of
the NZ Delegation to attend the Bomber Command Memorial
dedication on 28 June. The Commandant of Cadets assessed
the nominated cadets for their personal contribution to their
unit and NZCF over a long period of time.
Cadet W/O Jordan Hoult of No 17 Sqn ATC from
Christchurch, had attended the National Conference of the
RNZRSA this year and spoke on behalf of her Squadron to the
Conference. She has been awarded Commandant’s Medallion
for valued service.
“This opportunity, to go to London and represent my
squadron and our country at such an important event, is
truly an honour. An occasion like this opens one’s eyes to the
diversity of people who gave service to a cause they believed
in, something I think everyone should be able to experience.
I will be able to learn more about myself, as well as come to
better appreciate those who helped shape New Zealand as it is
today.
“My goal as a cadet is to embrace every experience
possible, by completing and staffing many NZCF courses
and representing my Squadron at various commemorative
services. With these memories I can discover how I can be of
greater service to 17 (City of Christchurch) Squadron and the
wider NZCF community.”
Cadet W/O Kendall Brown of No 41 Sqn ATC from Porirua
has been recognised as ‘most dedicated’, ‘most potential’, best
NCO and Best Attendance of cadets in his Squadron. His family
has an extensive military background, including his father’s
uncle who served with Bomber Command.
“This is the trip of a lifetime! I look at it as a way of thanking
those who have gone before us—in all aspects of the military
as well as in Bomber Command. My Dad’s uncle was in Bomber
Command as a Radio Operator and Navigator in Lancasters at
the end of WWII, so to be able to be part of the dedication of
the Memorial by Her Majesty the Queen, for the people who
served with him, will be awesome.
“I’m looking forward to flying with the Air Force and being
around regular force staff, as well as with all the Veterans who
are going. Hearing some of the stories from the Veterans will
also be a highlight for me. I am very privileged to be selected
and appreciate the recognition for my efforts with ATC over
the years. I hope that by participating in this event I can use it
as a way for others to see what is possible through the ATC and
Cadet Forces in general.”
The New Zealand
Representatives
The Bomber Command Memorial was dedicated by Her
Majesty The Queen in London on 28 June. The NZ delegation
was headed by the Chief of Air Force and included 33 New
Zealand veterans, 8 NZDF and VANZ staff, a medical team of
5, and 15 care and support personnel to assist the veterans,
along with the RNZAF crew and the two ATC Cadets as youth
representatives.
EX-RNZAF AVENGER GIFTED TO GISBORNE
A wartime photo of Grumman
Avenger NZ 2508, a sister aircraft
to the one now in Gisborne.
The Air Force Museum of New Zealand announced that it is
gifting Grumman Avenger NZ2505 to the Gisborne Aviation
Preservation Society (GAPS). The aircraft has been on long
term loan at GAPS since 1999. Construction of the volunteer
group’s new display hall is now nearing completion and it is
hoped that the permanent acquisition of this aircraft will
enable the Society to forge ahead with their intention to fully
rebuild the aircraft.
NZ2505 was the first RNZAF Avenger to arrive at Gisborne
in 1943 where it operated as part of the Squadron’s training
wing while crews prepared for operations in the Pacific. Not
actually deployed to the Islands itself, NZ2505 eventually
became one of the last Avengers in service and was finally
retired in 1959.
Air Force Museum Director Therese Angelo said, “It is
entirely appropriate that this aircraft should remain in what is
its spiritual home and that it should continue to help tell the
story of No.30 Squadron’s association with Gisborne.”
Air Force News
33
Sport
Sport
INTER-BASE
WATERPOLO
Todd Lambourne (blue cap, Auckland)
passes the ball in the match against Ohakea
By FLTLT Derek Bezuidenhout
T
INTER-BASE
BASKETBALL
Inter-Base Basketball 2012 saw players of all ages, rank and skill level gathering
together to do battle at Woodbourne. All Bases were represented in both Men’s
and Women’s tournaments, creating a strong competitive tournament.
Woodbourne Women’s team had a good physical battle in the final, beating
their rivals Auckland. In the Men’s final, a strong shooting performance by Ohakea
gave them the win over Auckland in overtime.
Finals:
Woodbourne Women’s beat Auckland 55 – 44.
Ohakea men beat Auckland 64 – 62.
Tournament MVPs: Miria Paul and Gavin Kotua
This season saw FLT LT Craig Searle attend his last Inter-Base tournament; his
thoughts on Air Force sport in the next issue.
34
Air Force News
his year’s RNZAF Inter-Base Waterpolo tournament was
held in Woodbourne; it became the closest competition
in many years.
This tournament was as much a learning opportunity for
players with no experience at all, and a teaching and mentoring
encounter for the more experienced players. The competition
highlighted an increase in experience of returning players,
hence the highly competitive tournament with close results.
Players aged 19 to 55, from the rank of AC to SQNLDR, from
different trades in the Air Force attended and several OCDTs
were recruited the night before to strengthen the WB ranks!
Most games were in the Woodbourne Base pool, but two
games were held at Stadium 2000 in Blenheim, a much larger
pool requiring different strategies
The weekend finished off in the Chevron Lounge and after
a very competitive, social and fun weekend, we are confident
that Inter-Base Waterpolo will be a sport to keep an eye on in
the future.
Results
1st: Ohakea; 2nd: Auckland, 3rd: Woodbourne
The Goddard Cup for Inter-Base Swimming
Although Auckland did not conquer the Waterpolo they had
speed and it showed when they swam away with the Inter-Base
Swimming competition.
1st2nd3rd
6 x 1 Freestyle Relay AK
OHWB
4 x 1 Medley Relay
AK OH WB
Derek Bezuidenhout (Ohakea) taking a shot at
goal; Greg Josephs is goalie for Woodbourne
Jake Mcphee (Ohakea) is tackled by
Nicole Martyn (Woodbourne, blue cap)
Air Force News
35
Sport
Sport
SGT Leo Wiapo accepts his
Sports Person of the Year
award from Chief of Air Force
F/S Michael Thomas accepts
his Sports Official Award
from CDR Keat
AVM Stockwell congratulates WO2
Greg Mildon for his nomination
NZDF SPORT AWARDS
The annual NZDF Sports Awards for 2011
were announced at a function on Friday
25 May. The Sports Award luncheon was
hosted by COL Howard Duffy, with VCDF
representing CDF. The guest speaker
was NZ Olympian Hamish Carter, who
gave an entertaining yet insightful
speech about the challenge of climbing
back from failure, to win.
The NZDF Sports Committee Executive thanks the following
organisations for their continued support to the NZDF Sports
Awards: Lumley General Insurance, NZ Uniforms, Hills Hats ltd,
FLAUNT, gen-I , Armed Forces Canteen Council.
36
Air Force News
THE NZDF OUTSTANDING SPORTSPERSON OF THE YEAR: CPL
Eugene Hepi of the Army, whose sport is Touch Rugby, where
he has represented the NZ Army, NZDF, Manawatu Region and
New Zealand.
The other nominee was LAC Amy Hatcher whose chosen
sport is Full Bore Rifle Shooting.
THE INDIVIDUAL SPORTSPERSON OF THE YEAR: SGT
Leo Wiapo who represents both the NZDF and RNZAF in
Basketball. He captained and coached the RNZAF Woodbourne
Basketball team in the top Marlborough Basketball division.
The RNZAF team won Inter-Services and Leo’s leadership and
dominance on the court led him to be appointed vice captain of
the NZDF Men’s team and captain on the court. He plays as a
member of the Marlborough Magic provincial team.
The other nominees: CPOSA Daniel Mau’afu (RNZN
Dolphins rugby league team) and WO2 Greg Mildon (NZDF and
NZ Army Touch rugby).
THE SPORTS OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR: Flight Sergeant
Michael Thomas who has been involved in Softball as a coach,
committee member and mentor for Base Ohakea, the RNZAF
and the NZDF. He has been selector for the RNZAF and took
on the role of coach for NZDF where he guided his team to a
victory over the ADF Softball team.
The other nominees: CPOMED Simon Vissers (RNZN Rugby)
and SGT Rebecca Dymock (Army Softball).
THE NZDF SPORTS TEAM OF THE YEAR: NZDF Men’s Hockey.
The NZDF men’s Hockey team continues to perform to the
highest standards. In 2011 NZDF Hockey toured to Australia
and won the Trans-Tasman test series.
The other nominees: NZDF Rugby League and NZDF Men’s
Softball teams
RA Jack Steer with SQNLDR Lyn Coromandel,
WGCDR Kelvin Read and Olympian Hamish Carter
THE NZDF COLOUR FOR SPORT was presented to SQN LDR
Taiwhaio (Lyn) Coromandel and WG CDR Kelvin Read. The
NZDF Colour is awarded to those service personnel or civilian
employees who have made an outstanding contribution
in an approved Defence Force Sport as a representative,
or by coaching or administering, or some other significant
contribution in the development of Defence Force Sport. The
two nominees are worthy recipients of the NZDF Colour for
services and excellence to sport.
WGCDR Kelvin Read is a prominent figure in RNZAF and
NZDF Hockey. For over 33 years Kelvin has been an integral
member of many teams at Base level, at Inter-Service level and
he has also played in Combined Services or NZDF teams. Kelvin
has been selected at provincial level for the National Masters’
Hockey Tournament and he has been selected to represent
New Zealand in his age group. Kelvin has also excelled in
Cricket and Harriers and has represented the RNZAF in
both codes. Currently chairman of NZDF Hockey, Kelvin was
instrumental in reviving the Hockey code at the NZDF level.
SQN LDR Coromandel has given outstanding service
playing, coaching and administering to RNZAF and NZDF
Basketball throughout his career. He is one of the founders
who worked to establish the NZDF Basketball Association
in 2002, enabling NZDF personnel to access Basketball NZ
support and opportunities. He is a strong influence, ensuring
that the sport is run in a fair and transparent manner where
everyone the chance to participate on merit. Since 2002
SQNLDR Coromandel has been one of the NZDF Team
Coaches, achieving success at National Premiere Level
Tournaments. He espouses basketball excellence, intellect,
and extremely high standards of strength, fitness and
discipline.
Air Force News
37
Book Review
By Harry Benson,
Preface Publishing,
London. 2012
‘Scram!’ was the radio call to warn
helicopters that an Argentine air raid was
coming in to the Falklands. Thirty years
on from the Falklands War of 1982 Harry
Benson has written a fresh account of
the campaign, from the perspective of a
troop-support helicopter pilot. Benson
was a ‘Junglie’ an RN pilot trained to fly
Wessex helicopters in support of the
Royal Marines.
It’s not only his perspective, he has
included first hand accounts from many
colleagues. The helicopters, Royal Navy,
British Army (Teeny Weeny Airways)
and the one RAF Chinook, were vital to
the progress of the British campaign
and Benson vividly recounts the very
many ways the helicopters assisted the
campaign. Indeed in the boggy terrain of
the Falklands it is likely that without the
helicopters the land campaign would not
have succeeded.
There are fresh things to learn from
that remarkable war; Benson gives a new
account of the Sea King that crashed in
Chile—they were trying to insert an SAS
patrol into Argentina. He writes of the
need to maintain security on the ground;
a surprising number of Argentine troops
were ‘behind the lines’ as the British land
force advanced. And, most vividly, he
writes of the dangers and stresses the
helo crews faced as they repeatedly flew
beyond peacetime safety limits.
This book should be read not only by
today’s helicopter crews, but also by the
troops and sailors they serve. Scram! is
a good reminder that in the Falklands we
have a relevant example of modern joint
amphibious warfare.
38
Air Force News
from 1951–1977. The Bristol Type
170 was designed in 1944 as a utility
transport capable of airlifting the
standard British Army 3-ton truck.
The prototype first flew in 1945 and a
demonstrator visited NZ in 1947.
During the demonstrator’s visit it was
loaned to New Zealand Railways Dept
for trials and the first B170 freight
flight across Cook Strait (Paraparaumu
– Woodbourne) on July 29. Ultimately
SAFE Air Ltd operated the commercial
Cook Strait service until 1986.
The RNZAF ordered 12 Bristol
Freighters and deliveries began
in 1951. After participating in the
Queen’s Coronation Review [see page
24] NZ5090 was flown to New Zealand
arriving at Whenuapai in August 1953.
The type was operated by No. 41
Sqn, No.3 Sqn (1965-72) and No.1 Sqn
(1972-77). No 41 Sqn was based in
Singapore from May 1955 until 1977
and its Freighters took part in the
Malaya campaign and Confrontation,
the Thailand crisis (1962-63) and flew
regularly into South Vietnam during
the war. The aircraft was popularly
known as the ‘Ug’ or ‘Ugly’; reputedly
if the passengers walked aft while
in flight the trim would change
dramatically!
Two RNZAF Freighters were lost in
crashes, one near Woodbourne in 1953
with the loss of 5 lives, the other in
Malaya during 1956, killing 8 with one
survivor.
The B170 was versatile and popular;
214 were built between 1945 and 1958
and as well as the RNZAF it served
with the RAF (19), RAAF (4), RCAF
(6), Argentine Air Force (14) and the
Pakistan Air Force (38). NZ5903 is now
in the RNZAF Museum.
With thanks to Air Force Museum of NZ and
Phillip Treweek, Kiwiaircraft images.com
Crew: 3
Wingspan:
108 feet
Length: 68 feet 4 inches
Loaded weight: 44000 lbs
Payload 13,500lb (6,135kg)or 20 passengers
Power plant: Two Bristol Hercules 734 engines, 1980 hp
Cruising speed: 163 mph
Max speed: 225 mph
Ceiling: 24500 feet
Range: 820 miles
Armament: nil
HAND ACCOUNT OF THE
HELICOPTER WAR IN THE
FALKLANDS
This Bristol Freighter, NZ5909, was
one of 12 operated by the RNZAF
Tech Specs Bristol B170 Mk31M
SCRAM!
THE GRIPPING FIRST-
The Bristol Freighter
Air Force News
39
DEFENCECAREERS.MIL.NZ/AIR-FORCE
40
Air Force News