Prince George takes control as Wales family take in air tattoo
The Wales family did not let a little rain spoil their day out! As the school year comes to an end, the Prince and Princess of Wales took their three children to an air tattoo. The family of five attended the Royal International Air Tattoo in Gloucestershire. At the event, put on by the Royal Air Force (RAF), the Wales’ got and up close look at aircraft and met with cadets. A poignant part of the day included a tour of C-17 aircraft that transported the coffin of their grandmother and great-grandmother, the late Queen Elizabeth II from Edinburgh to London last year.
The Prince of Wales looked proud as Prince George seemed to fit right in on the aircraft, raising and lowering the ramp, checking out the controls and pointing out items to his siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Prince William is a former rescue pilot with the RAF Search and Rescue Force. He is also the Honorary Air Commandant of RAF Coningsby.
The Princess of Wales offered congratulations to the winners of the Road to RIAT competition. The goal of this contest was to design a sustainable aircraft for the RAF. The Princess of Wales is the Honorary Air Commodore of the Air Cadets. The Princess also stopped by the show’s Techno Zone, an area meant to encourage youth to become more involved in STEM and to consider careers in aviation and engineering.
On social media, the Prince and Prince of Wales account shared a photo of the smiling family with RAF and US Air Force crews in the rain, or as the Wales’ put it: “wonderful British summer weather.”
The Royal International Air Tattoo is the world’s largest air show. 200,000 people attend the show which supports the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust. This trust supports the air force and inspires young people to be involved in aviation careers.
royalcentral.co.uk
The Prince of Wales looked proud as Prince George seemed to fit right in on the aircraft, raising and lowering the ramp, checking out the controls and pointing out items to his siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Prince William is a former rescue pilot with the RAF Search and Rescue Force. He is also the Honorary Air Commandant of RAF Coningsby.
The Princess of Wales offered congratulations to the winners of the Road to RIAT competition. The goal of this contest was to design a sustainable aircraft for the RAF. The Princess of Wales is the Honorary Air Commodore of the Air Cadets. The Princess also stopped by the show’s Techno Zone, an area meant to encourage youth to become more involved in STEM and to consider careers in aviation and engineering.
On social media, the Prince and Prince of Wales account shared a photo of the smiling family with RAF and US Air Force crews in the rain, or as the Wales’ put it: “wonderful British summer weather.”
The Royal International Air Tattoo is the world’s largest air show. 200,000 people attend the show which supports the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust. This trust supports the air force and inspires young people to be involved in aviation careers.
royalcentral.co.uk
From: John Furney, Dymock, Gloucestershire
Subject: Hercules
Dear Tony,
I may have missed the boat, but with the references to the Aden withdrawal from Pete Orton and Dick Lloyd, my little grey cells reminded me that I had a picture of the Muharraq aircraft pan during that withdrawal.
UKMAMS we were sent out on the 25th November,1967, to reinforce Air Movs Muharraq and of course to cover the night shifts. On the 1st December, the team loaded and then boarded the last freight Hercules out of Muharraq at 2 o’clock in the morning to experience our first Herc flight (nine hours to Luqa and a further four to Lyneham.). What I do find interesting is that the Herc entered RAF service in April 67 and here in November 67 a picture shows 12 of them were already on probably their first operational task. And by the way for the oldies, six Brits, two Belfasts and seven Argosies (not a Beverley to be seen!).
Memories <sigh>
John
Subject: Hercules
Dear Tony,
I may have missed the boat, but with the references to the Aden withdrawal from Pete Orton and Dick Lloyd, my little grey cells reminded me that I had a picture of the Muharraq aircraft pan during that withdrawal.
UKMAMS we were sent out on the 25th November,1967, to reinforce Air Movs Muharraq and of course to cover the night shifts. On the 1st December, the team loaded and then boarded the last freight Hercules out of Muharraq at 2 o’clock in the morning to experience our first Herc flight (nine hours to Luqa and a further four to Lyneham.). What I do find interesting is that the Herc entered RAF service in April 67 and here in November 67 a picture shows 12 of them were already on probably their first operational task. And by the way for the oldies, six Brits, two Belfasts and seven Argosies (not a Beverley to be seen!).
Memories <sigh>
John
From: Stephen Davey, Tadcaster, North Yorks
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Tony,
I really had to dig this one up from the memory bank but it's true as it's strange. Brize Norton in the early 70's and I was on A shift traffic, our team was tasked with loading a DAC (dangerous air cargo) Britannia which was parked on a remote pan on the ASP for obvious reasons. The task of loading the main freight area was completed and we were in the front belly hold loading normal freight.
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Tony,
I really had to dig this one up from the memory bank but it's true as it's strange. Brize Norton in the early 70's and I was on A shift traffic, our team was tasked with loading a DAC (dangerous air cargo) Britannia which was parked on a remote pan on the ASP for obvious reasons. The task of loading the main freight area was completed and we were in the front belly hold loading normal freight.
The Houchin (power set) was parked right outside belching out noxious fumes, which in itself wasn't very healthy, when we noticed sparks and flames coming out of the doors of the Houchin. The three of us jumped out of the hold, one guy pulled the power cable from the aircraft while myself and one other (the names escape me now) pulled the power set to a safe distance from the aircraft and at the same time radioed the Fire Section and the Flight Line to urgently attend. The situation was safely dealt with by the relevant departments and I believe thanks were offered to our team for our prompt intervention from everyone involved.
Do you remember the "Good show" awards that were promulgated in the monthly Flight Safety Magazine? Well, I don't know if we were ever mentioned, but perhaps we should have been? This was my proudest moment as a Mover.
Many regards
Steve
Do you remember the "Good show" awards that were promulgated in the monthly Flight Safety Magazine? Well, I don't know if we were ever mentioned, but perhaps we should have been? This was my proudest moment as a Mover.
Many regards
Steve
RAF Atlas flies non-stop for 22 hours in its longest-ever flight
A Royal Air Force A400M Atlas has carried out the longest-ever flight of this aircraft type. The non-stop 22-hour flight from RAF Brize Norton kicked off the deployment for Exercise Mobility Guardian 23.
The Atlas flew to Guam and was refuelled on the way three times – over the Atlantic, Alaska, and finally over the Pacific Ocean. The first refuelling was carried out by a Voyager from 10/101 Squadron flying from the UK, and the second and third refuellings were carried out by a second Voyager operating from the US Air Force Eilson Airbase in Alaska.
During the flight, on 3 July, the route also took the Atlas closer to the North Pole over the Arctic ice cap than any previous flight by this aircraft type.
On arrival to Guam, the Atlas, together with an RAF Voyager, elements from the Tactical Medical Wing and other supporting personnel from across the RAF joined the exercise.
The RAF's Air Mobility Force Commander, Air Commodore Anthony Lyle said: "Exercise Mobility Guardian is an outstanding training opportunity for the Air Mobility Force; it allows us to demonstrate the speed, reach and utility of the RAF, underpinned by the assets from the Air Mobility Force and reinforces our ability to rapidly conduct global Air Operations.
The non-stop flight of the A400M Atlas from RAF Brize Norton to Guam is a great example of our ability to project air power, allowing us to get aircraft, crews and vital equipment to the other side of the world in a timely manner and for them to be able to operate immediately".
Flight Lieutenant Andy York, from Voyager Force Training Flight said: "From an aircrew perspective this has been a challenging and rewarding sortie for all, to enable long-range projection of the RAF Air Mobility Fleet. The planning has been significant as well as the benefits of exercising long-range strategic air-to-air refuelling with another large aircraft type, conducted from forward-operating airports."
In addition to the US aircraft taking part in Mobility Guardian, the RAF detachment will be joined by aircraft and personnel from Australia, Canada, France, Japan, and New Zealand.
In June, the Atlas took over the lead of the RAF's tactical airlift of troops and equipment following the decommissioning of the C-130J Hercules.
There have been concerns over the Atlas' ability to replace the Hercules, with the new Chief of the Air Staff previously admitting there would be an initial capability gap.
forces.net
The non-stop flight of the A400M Atlas from RAF Brize Norton to Guam is a great example of our ability to project air power, allowing us to get aircraft, crews and vital equipment to the other side of the world in a timely manner and for them to be able to operate immediately".
Flight Lieutenant Andy York, from Voyager Force Training Flight said: "From an aircrew perspective this has been a challenging and rewarding sortie for all, to enable long-range projection of the RAF Air Mobility Fleet. The planning has been significant as well as the benefits of exercising long-range strategic air-to-air refuelling with another large aircraft type, conducted from forward-operating airports."
In addition to the US aircraft taking part in Mobility Guardian, the RAF detachment will be joined by aircraft and personnel from Australia, Canada, France, Japan, and New Zealand.
In June, the Atlas took over the lead of the RAF's tactical airlift of troops and equipment following the decommissioning of the C-130J Hercules.
There have been concerns over the Atlas' ability to replace the Hercules, with the new Chief of the Air Staff previously admitting there would be an initial capability gap.
forces.net
From: Fred Martin, Godalming, Surrey
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Hi Tony,
I was on duty at Air Movs Khormaksar one evening, probably early 1963. We had just dispatched a UK bound flight; it was taxiing towards the runway ready for take off. The phone rang and I answered. It was HQMEC saying they had a "compassionate A" case and when could he be got away. There was nothing else out to the UK for 48 hours.
By pure chance, the Wing Commander in charge of Air Traffic Control was paying a visit to Transport Ops whose office was adjacent to ours. He was probably the only person on the station at that time of evening who had the authority to hold a flight. I was aware of his presence and thinking quickly (a bit unusual for me!), I asked the caller to hold. I found the Wingco and explained the situation to him. He was very good and said to this humble SAC, “Tell them that if they can get the Comp A here within 30 minutes, then I can hold the flight.” The unfortunate fellow arrived, was taken straight out to the aircraft and was airborne for the UK within 45 minutes of the original call. I felt proud that, as a small cog in a very big wheel, I was able to help in getting a distressed fellow serviceman away so quickly .
Best Wishes
Fred
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Hi Tony,
I was on duty at Air Movs Khormaksar one evening, probably early 1963. We had just dispatched a UK bound flight; it was taxiing towards the runway ready for take off. The phone rang and I answered. It was HQMEC saying they had a "compassionate A" case and when could he be got away. There was nothing else out to the UK for 48 hours.
By pure chance, the Wing Commander in charge of Air Traffic Control was paying a visit to Transport Ops whose office was adjacent to ours. He was probably the only person on the station at that time of evening who had the authority to hold a flight. I was aware of his presence and thinking quickly (a bit unusual for me!), I asked the caller to hold. I found the Wingco and explained the situation to him. He was very good and said to this humble SAC, “Tell them that if they can get the Comp A here within 30 minutes, then I can hold the flight.” The unfortunate fellow arrived, was taken straight out to the aircraft and was airborne for the UK within 45 minutes of the original call. I felt proud that, as a small cog in a very big wheel, I was able to help in getting a distressed fellow serviceman away so quickly .
Best Wishes
Fred
From: Al McGrath, Halton, Bucks
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Hi Tony,
Over the years I have been extremely proud of the teams I have been involved with. Highlights include training and deploying youngsters and auxiliaries to Afghanistan for a tour of duty, successfully deploying the latest NATO Submarine Rescue System on its maiden deployment by air exercise and meeting the various characters the trade has produced over the years.
During these times, the people have been the greatest enjoyment, the laughs, the banter, the highs, even getting thru the lows were enjoyable, for the most part. As someone reminded me the other day, when things are going South I just do what you used to do, laugh about it, have a cup of tea and then get on with it.
For me personally, the proudest moment I have been involved in was the turnaround of a C-17 at Camp Bastion in 2011. The regular freighter with its abundance of logistics fit pallets arrived in the heat of the night and the team rapidly offloaded them by Atlas and Rough Terrain Cat forklifts. A routine event for the MAMS team in those times.
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Hi Tony,
Over the years I have been extremely proud of the teams I have been involved with. Highlights include training and deploying youngsters and auxiliaries to Afghanistan for a tour of duty, successfully deploying the latest NATO Submarine Rescue System on its maiden deployment by air exercise and meeting the various characters the trade has produced over the years.
During these times, the people have been the greatest enjoyment, the laughs, the banter, the highs, even getting thru the lows were enjoyable, for the most part. As someone reminded me the other day, when things are going South I just do what you used to do, laugh about it, have a cup of tea and then get on with it.
For me personally, the proudest moment I have been involved in was the turnaround of a C-17 at Camp Bastion in 2011. The regular freighter with its abundance of logistics fit pallets arrived in the heat of the night and the team rapidly offloaded them by Atlas and Rough Terrain Cat forklifts. A routine event for the MAMS team in those times.
This night however, the mood was different and there was a serious air about the pan as it filled with a whole host of visitors, including the CO, the Garrison Sgt Maj (GSM), medical staff, padres and any Army officer who wanted to be seen during this unique and urgent turnaround.
Whilst the gathering crowd looked on at the sweat covered motley crew, after the offload was complete, the team began flipping the roller to flat floor in a methodical and swift fashion. You could feel the tension rising as pressure was being applied as the first of the returning load turned up, 7 coffins of fallen comrades lined with Union Jacks. After the brief service and ceremonial onloading of the Op PABBAY, the black dividing curtain was fitted about one third of the way down the cabin.
Next was the fitting of the CCAST equipment, 2 critically ill soldiers being repatriated for life saving care, it looked like a scene from A&E, with lots of life saving equipment surrounding the two patients.
Next were the stretcher patients and walking wounded, a mix of around 20 souls who had served their country bravely and at a cost, spirits were high all round even with the feel of death and pain in the air. Some even arrived on a well timed Fat Albert from Kandahar which practically reversed up to the C-17 ramp at a 90 degree angle on the 3 pan loop.
With the last bits n pieces loaded to the ramp, final checks completed and the red aircraft warning lights flashing in the absolute darkness, the aircraft finally trundled down the runway to its departure point bang on time to head off firstly to Birmingham airport to drop off the various patients then onto RAF Brize Norton for the deceased to be reunited with their grieving families and friends.
I could never have imagined the Globemaster III operating in such a unique configuration, morgue, A&E and outpatients. This was a true logistical piece of magic.
Every single participant involved in the two aircraft turnarounds, the crews, the support services, the planners, all should be rightly proud of what they achieved that night, as if I didn’t feel proud enough, as the aircraft lifted into the darkness heading back to old Blighty, the GSM turned to me and said, “The word heroes is often banded about these days, but what I just witnessed showed me who the real heroes are.”
In true RAF tradition, it was just another finest hour which isn’t celebrated but merely consigned to the memory like so many others.
Per ardua ad astra - RIP the Fallen
Al McGrath
Whilst the gathering crowd looked on at the sweat covered motley crew, after the offload was complete, the team began flipping the roller to flat floor in a methodical and swift fashion. You could feel the tension rising as pressure was being applied as the first of the returning load turned up, 7 coffins of fallen comrades lined with Union Jacks. After the brief service and ceremonial onloading of the Op PABBAY, the black dividing curtain was fitted about one third of the way down the cabin.
Next was the fitting of the CCAST equipment, 2 critically ill soldiers being repatriated for life saving care, it looked like a scene from A&E, with lots of life saving equipment surrounding the two patients.
Next were the stretcher patients and walking wounded, a mix of around 20 souls who had served their country bravely and at a cost, spirits were high all round even with the feel of death and pain in the air. Some even arrived on a well timed Fat Albert from Kandahar which practically reversed up to the C-17 ramp at a 90 degree angle on the 3 pan loop.
With the last bits n pieces loaded to the ramp, final checks completed and the red aircraft warning lights flashing in the absolute darkness, the aircraft finally trundled down the runway to its departure point bang on time to head off firstly to Birmingham airport to drop off the various patients then onto RAF Brize Norton for the deceased to be reunited with their grieving families and friends.
I could never have imagined the Globemaster III operating in such a unique configuration, morgue, A&E and outpatients. This was a true logistical piece of magic.
Every single participant involved in the two aircraft turnarounds, the crews, the support services, the planners, all should be rightly proud of what they achieved that night, as if I didn’t feel proud enough, as the aircraft lifted into the darkness heading back to old Blighty, the GSM turned to me and said, “The word heroes is often banded about these days, but what I just witnessed showed me who the real heroes are.”
In true RAF tradition, it was just another finest hour which isn’t celebrated but merely consigned to the memory like so many others.
Per ardua ad astra - RIP the Fallen
Al McGrath
From: Tony Gale, Gatineau, QC
Subject: The Covenant
Hello all,
I just watched a movie on Amazon Prime called “The Covenant” which is the true story of a US Army sergeant who goes back to Afghanistan as a civilian to rescue his former interpreter and family.
Apart from being a great story, all of the images of Bagram airfield show only A400Ms on the pan. The last frames of the movie show the rescued family inside the A400M on their way back to the USA.
All-in-all a very entertaining couple of hours - and a look into the possible future of the US transport fleet?
Watch the preview on YouTube: The Covenant Preview.
Subject: The Covenant
Hello all,
I just watched a movie on Amazon Prime called “The Covenant” which is the true story of a US Army sergeant who goes back to Afghanistan as a civilian to rescue his former interpreter and family.
Apart from being a great story, all of the images of Bagram airfield show only A400Ms on the pan. The last frames of the movie show the rescued family inside the A400M on their way back to the USA.
All-in-all a very entertaining couple of hours - and a look into the possible future of the US transport fleet?
Watch the preview on YouTube: The Covenant Preview.
New Commanding Officer for 426 Squadron
Members of 426 (Transport) Training Squadron are welcoming a new commanding officer. Commanding Officer of 426 (Transport) Training Squadron, Lieutenant-Colonel Gregor Jackson (front row, left) is joined by 8 Wing Commander, Colonel Leif Dahl and outgoing 426 Squadron Commander, Lieutenant-Colonel James Arbuckle (front row, right). They are accompanied by 424 Squadron Chief Warrant Officer, Chief Warrant Officer Glen Slaunwhite (left), Wing Chief Warrant Officer Renee Hansen, and outgoing Squadron Chief Warrant Officer Jon Freeman (right) as they sign to formalize the change of command on July 13, 2023 at 8 Wing Trenton.
Lieutenant-Colonel Gregor Jackson officially took over as the squadron’s commanding officer following a ceremony on Thursday. “I look forward to leading the members of 426 Training Squadron as we provide the very best Air Mobility aircrew and technicians to sustain missions at home and around the globe,” he said. “We will work together to continue to train and support members who are the foundation in our ranks.”
Lieutenant-Colonel Jackson previously served with the Royal Air Force in the United Kingdom, before retiring from the RAF in 2018 and joining the Royal Canadian Air Force in 2019.
Members of 426 (Transport) Training Squadron work at the Air Mobility Training Centre located at 8 Wing Trenton, training and preparing aircrew to operate the CC-130 Hercules and CC-150 Polaris aircraft.
quintenews.com
Lieutenant-Colonel Gregor Jackson officially took over as the squadron’s commanding officer following a ceremony on Thursday. “I look forward to leading the members of 426 Training Squadron as we provide the very best Air Mobility aircrew and technicians to sustain missions at home and around the globe,” he said. “We will work together to continue to train and support members who are the foundation in our ranks.”
Lieutenant-Colonel Jackson previously served with the Royal Air Force in the United Kingdom, before retiring from the RAF in 2018 and joining the Royal Canadian Air Force in 2019.
Members of 426 (Transport) Training Squadron work at the Air Mobility Training Centre located at 8 Wing Trenton, training and preparing aircrew to operate the CC-130 Hercules and CC-150 Polaris aircraft.
quintenews.com
From: Brian Everett, Darlington
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Hi Tony,
I wouldn’t refer to these necessarily as my proudest moments, as I’m proud of all my movements experiences – well almost all of them! But I am particularly proud of those ‘Movers’ with whom I’ve worked. Some occasions have been exciting, some more memorable, others quite humbling, and a few quite daunting.
I suppose on reflection it is the many occasions during which one has had to “wing it”: civil uprisings, special operations, humanitarian activities, recovering heavy and awkward equipment in areas without lifting equipment, transferring tribesmen and special services to awkward locations. I’m particularly proud of the work that my guys did in Malta, supported by UK MAMS, during the extremely short notice evacuation in 1971.
Like many others, I’ve been lucky to have had personal meetings/contacts with Queen Elizabeth II, and with several members of the Royal family as well as royalty of other nations, presidents, heads of state and leading members within various countries, as well as those within the communities at home, during my time on Movements duties.
Tony’s introductory comments on his e-mail remind me of the time when I was head of Mov Ops (RAF) in MOD, where Tony had previously served. I had the task on several occasions of meeting with Admiral Godfrey Place VC, CB, CVO, DSC, the President of the VC/GC Association, and with staff of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, arranging the flights associated with the reunions, both in April 1976 and again in May 1978.
Admiral Place won his VC when in 1943, as a young Lieutenant on the midget submarine X7, he attacked the German battleship Tirpitz in Norwegian waters. Like many of the recipients of the VC and GC, he was a very modest man.
On the occasion of these reunions, one of my Squadron Leaders, Chris Ranasinghe, acted as escort officer on the flights to and from Hong Kong. We were both invited to the reunion dinners in London at which Prince Philip was Guest of Honour. I don’t know about being proud, I felt most humble, in the presence of such collective bravery, and honoured to sit at the same table as such modest men.
I suppose the other main element of pride came from being appointed the first MOD officer to be Escort Officer to the Prime Minister, James Callaghan, during my time in Mov Ops (RAF). This took me to India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Egypt, USA, Canada, the Middle East, and Europe on several occasions. Interesting but not always relaxing times!
Brian D Everett, MBE
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Hi Tony,
I wouldn’t refer to these necessarily as my proudest moments, as I’m proud of all my movements experiences – well almost all of them! But I am particularly proud of those ‘Movers’ with whom I’ve worked. Some occasions have been exciting, some more memorable, others quite humbling, and a few quite daunting.
I suppose on reflection it is the many occasions during which one has had to “wing it”: civil uprisings, special operations, humanitarian activities, recovering heavy and awkward equipment in areas without lifting equipment, transferring tribesmen and special services to awkward locations. I’m particularly proud of the work that my guys did in Malta, supported by UK MAMS, during the extremely short notice evacuation in 1971.
Like many others, I’ve been lucky to have had personal meetings/contacts with Queen Elizabeth II, and with several members of the Royal family as well as royalty of other nations, presidents, heads of state and leading members within various countries, as well as those within the communities at home, during my time on Movements duties.
Tony’s introductory comments on his e-mail remind me of the time when I was head of Mov Ops (RAF) in MOD, where Tony had previously served. I had the task on several occasions of meeting with Admiral Godfrey Place VC, CB, CVO, DSC, the President of the VC/GC Association, and with staff of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, arranging the flights associated with the reunions, both in April 1976 and again in May 1978.
Admiral Place won his VC when in 1943, as a young Lieutenant on the midget submarine X7, he attacked the German battleship Tirpitz in Norwegian waters. Like many of the recipients of the VC and GC, he was a very modest man.
On the occasion of these reunions, one of my Squadron Leaders, Chris Ranasinghe, acted as escort officer on the flights to and from Hong Kong. We were both invited to the reunion dinners in London at which Prince Philip was Guest of Honour. I don’t know about being proud, I felt most humble, in the presence of such collective bravery, and honoured to sit at the same table as such modest men.
I suppose the other main element of pride came from being appointed the first MOD officer to be Escort Officer to the Prime Minister, James Callaghan, during my time in Mov Ops (RAF). This took me to India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Egypt, USA, Canada, the Middle East, and Europe on several occasions. Interesting but not always relaxing times!
Brian D Everett, MBE
Mighty Hercules: 65 years strong
An Air Force C-130J Hercules conducts low-level training and flare drops over RAAF Base Richmond
The C-130 platform has long been the backbone of RAAF air transport and has played a significant role within 36SQN and 37SQN, operating from RAAF Base Richmond. The C-130J variant of the ‘Herc’ is the one currently in use.
In 1958, Air Force received 12 of the initial C-130A variant, making Australia the first country to operate the aircraft outside of the United States. Operated by 36SQN until 1978, the C-130A was replaced by the C-130H, and continued operation until 2006 when the C-130Hs were transferred to 37SQN, continuing until they were decommissioned in 2012. In 1966, the re-formed 37SQN became the operational unit of 12 new C-130E models, in an effort to meet increasing demand for domestic and international support, especially during the Vietnam War period.
Throughout the years the C-130E would continue to prove itself a reliable platform, and undertake more than 300,000 hours of accident-free flying hours prior to its retirement in 2000. The C-130E was replaced by the C-130J, which is still being operated at RAAF Base Richmond.
Upgrades throughout the years to the C-130 fleet have provided technical advancements to enhance mission effectiveness and assist aircrew and maintenance personnel. Former 36SQN aircraft technician, and now 37SQN WOFF, WOFF Peter Ranson, remembers when things were different. “Five aircrew were required to operate the older C-130 variants,” WOFF Ranson said. “Today, Air Force’s more modern C-130J requires only a three-crew minimum to operate.”
Enhancing performance, increasing range and improving avionics contributes to the vital role the C-130J Hercules has played and continues to play in Defence operations and integration with partner nations worldwide. These include, but are not limited to, Operations Falconer, Catalyst, Slipper, Accordion, Highroad and Okra (Middle East Operations from 2001 t o 2021); Operation Solance (Somalia); Operation Tamar (Rhwanda); and the International Force East Timor Operations.
Across the decades, the Hercules has also worked collaboratively globally to deliver humanitarian assistance through operations such as Pakistan Assist, Bali Assist, Fiji Assist, Padang Assist, Bush Fire Assist 20 and Flood Assists 20/21/22.
President of 37SQN Association Col Coyne served for 22 years with Air Force and was a loadmaster with 37SQN from 1981 to 1990. “I was fortunate to work on a wide variety of tasking ranging from routine scheduled services to RAAF Bases within Australia and overseas, to military exercise deployment / redeployment, and medical evacuations, natural disaster and humanitarian response missions,” Mr Coyne said. “The C-130J Hercules basically looks the same as the first ones received in 1958, but with ongoing improvements it has maintained the versatility it brought to Defence 65 years ago.”
To commemorate 65 years of C-130 Hercules operations, the 37SQN Association will be hosting a function on September 8 at the Clarendon Tavern, opposite RAAF Base Richmond. The event will celebrate and bring together members past and present, who contributed to the operation of all C-130 Hercules variants throughout the last 65 years, and honour not merely an aircraft, but a symbol of Australia’s commitment to service, humanitarian assistance and global cooperation.
Bookings can be made at: trybooking.com/events/landing/1007205 or by emailing the 37SQN Association at: raaf37sqnassoc@outlook.com
Major air miles
The C-130 Hercules fleet used by Air Force has flown more than 850,000 hours:
C-130A (1958 to 1978) – 148,063.6 hrs
C-130E (1966 to 2000) – 307,007.9 hrs
C-130H (1978 to 2012) – 244,618.4 hrs
C-130J (1999 to now) – 156,857.3 hrs
airforcenewspaper.defence.gov.au
In 1958, Air Force received 12 of the initial C-130A variant, making Australia the first country to operate the aircraft outside of the United States. Operated by 36SQN until 1978, the C-130A was replaced by the C-130H, and continued operation until 2006 when the C-130Hs were transferred to 37SQN, continuing until they were decommissioned in 2012. In 1966, the re-formed 37SQN became the operational unit of 12 new C-130E models, in an effort to meet increasing demand for domestic and international support, especially during the Vietnam War period.
Throughout the years the C-130E would continue to prove itself a reliable platform, and undertake more than 300,000 hours of accident-free flying hours prior to its retirement in 2000. The C-130E was replaced by the C-130J, which is still being operated at RAAF Base Richmond.
Upgrades throughout the years to the C-130 fleet have provided technical advancements to enhance mission effectiveness and assist aircrew and maintenance personnel. Former 36SQN aircraft technician, and now 37SQN WOFF, WOFF Peter Ranson, remembers when things were different. “Five aircrew were required to operate the older C-130 variants,” WOFF Ranson said. “Today, Air Force’s more modern C-130J requires only a three-crew minimum to operate.”
Enhancing performance, increasing range and improving avionics contributes to the vital role the C-130J Hercules has played and continues to play in Defence operations and integration with partner nations worldwide. These include, but are not limited to, Operations Falconer, Catalyst, Slipper, Accordion, Highroad and Okra (Middle East Operations from 2001 t o 2021); Operation Solance (Somalia); Operation Tamar (Rhwanda); and the International Force East Timor Operations.
Across the decades, the Hercules has also worked collaboratively globally to deliver humanitarian assistance through operations such as Pakistan Assist, Bali Assist, Fiji Assist, Padang Assist, Bush Fire Assist 20 and Flood Assists 20/21/22.
President of 37SQN Association Col Coyne served for 22 years with Air Force and was a loadmaster with 37SQN from 1981 to 1990. “I was fortunate to work on a wide variety of tasking ranging from routine scheduled services to RAAF Bases within Australia and overseas, to military exercise deployment / redeployment, and medical evacuations, natural disaster and humanitarian response missions,” Mr Coyne said. “The C-130J Hercules basically looks the same as the first ones received in 1958, but with ongoing improvements it has maintained the versatility it brought to Defence 65 years ago.”
To commemorate 65 years of C-130 Hercules operations, the 37SQN Association will be hosting a function on September 8 at the Clarendon Tavern, opposite RAAF Base Richmond. The event will celebrate and bring together members past and present, who contributed to the operation of all C-130 Hercules variants throughout the last 65 years, and honour not merely an aircraft, but a symbol of Australia’s commitment to service, humanitarian assistance and global cooperation.
Bookings can be made at: trybooking.com/events/landing/1007205 or by emailing the 37SQN Association at: raaf37sqnassoc@outlook.com
Major air miles
The C-130 Hercules fleet used by Air Force has flown more than 850,000 hours:
C-130A (1958 to 1978) – 148,063.6 hrs
C-130E (1966 to 2000) – 307,007.9 hrs
C-130H (1978 to 2012) – 244,618.4 hrs
C-130J (1999 to now) – 156,857.3 hrs
airforcenewspaper.defence.gov.au
From: David Powell, Princes Risborough, Bucks
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment - VC & GC Biennial Sweeper Flights
Dear Tony,
Thank you for your proudest moment. It reminded me of a coincidence and a truly memorable flight. It was while on my first tour with the RAF Changi Equipment Wing as O i/c Secondary Accounts Section. This Section was part of the Supply Control & Accounting Flight (SCAF) run by a brilliant experienced Flt Lt Paddy Burke, so I was quite expendable. In fact, I think that my equally brilliant and experienced Sergeant Vaughn actually preferred it when I wasn’t in the way. Hence being deployed at every opportunity to RAF Gong Kedak, RAF Kuantan, Terendak etc. as well as, this is the coincidence, being volunteered as the In-Flight Imprest Holder and Mover for the 1966 VC & GC Association Biennial Reunion Far East Sweeper.
The Association Reunions were a product of the 100th Anniversary of the VC dinner in 1956. From this came the idea of the Biennial Reunions. The first was in 1958, Tony’s was the 10th in 1976 and my involvement was the 5th in 1966. This included a 215 Squadron Argosy and crew plus a ground engineer and myself. This was disguised as a ‘Training Flight’ which went round collecting 12 or so VC and GC holders from the far corners of the Far East to bring them back to RAF Changi for on move to UK by a shiny new VC10. They had just taken over the regular trooping schedule. For our mission, our route was: Gan; Cocos Keeling Islands; across Australia with a day off at Canberra; then Whenuapai, New Zealand; 2 nights in Noumea, French New Caledonia (the farthest East I have ever been but did eventually get to Hawaii West bound with F Team), and then a return through Momote in the Admiralty Island; Zamboanga on the Southern tip of the Philippines, and back to Changi.
I won’t bore you with all the details of this adventure. But, they did include: keeping the RNZAF Orderly Officer company between beers while we did his rounds at Whenuapai, included checking WRNZAF block to ensure that all the girls were back safe and sound; sharing spells sitting on the Argosy’s wing for hours with the engineer holding the nozzle of the hose while the Argosy was being refueled from 45 gallon drums (which had been floated ashore from a passing cargo ship) by a team of chanting locals using a Kelson hand pump at Momote, a scene lit by flaming torches tied to surrounding palm trees, and chatting up an attractive young lady in a bar in Noumea on behalf of the smitten young GE who didn’t even have my limited schoolboy French! And, most significantly, having to do the whole trip 24/7 with a money-belt under my shirt which started out with some £20,000 in various currencies, mainly US dollars, to pay the hotel and miscellaneous bills incurred by the crew and our priceless passengers during this 10 day flight.
I never did find out how our illustrious passengers got home; probably back to Sydney and with a railway warrant. In my time it was not unknown for personnel posted to Sarawak to arrive by air at Changi with a railway warrant to Kuching.
Unlike Tony, I didn’t get a thank you letter but just a rather raw sore strip of skin around my waist!
Stay safe, have fun
David Powell F Team UKMAMS 1967-69
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment - VC & GC Biennial Sweeper Flights
Dear Tony,
Thank you for your proudest moment. It reminded me of a coincidence and a truly memorable flight. It was while on my first tour with the RAF Changi Equipment Wing as O i/c Secondary Accounts Section. This Section was part of the Supply Control & Accounting Flight (SCAF) run by a brilliant experienced Flt Lt Paddy Burke, so I was quite expendable. In fact, I think that my equally brilliant and experienced Sergeant Vaughn actually preferred it when I wasn’t in the way. Hence being deployed at every opportunity to RAF Gong Kedak, RAF Kuantan, Terendak etc. as well as, this is the coincidence, being volunteered as the In-Flight Imprest Holder and Mover for the 1966 VC & GC Association Biennial Reunion Far East Sweeper.
The Association Reunions were a product of the 100th Anniversary of the VC dinner in 1956. From this came the idea of the Biennial Reunions. The first was in 1958, Tony’s was the 10th in 1976 and my involvement was the 5th in 1966. This included a 215 Squadron Argosy and crew plus a ground engineer and myself. This was disguised as a ‘Training Flight’ which went round collecting 12 or so VC and GC holders from the far corners of the Far East to bring them back to RAF Changi for on move to UK by a shiny new VC10. They had just taken over the regular trooping schedule. For our mission, our route was: Gan; Cocos Keeling Islands; across Australia with a day off at Canberra; then Whenuapai, New Zealand; 2 nights in Noumea, French New Caledonia (the farthest East I have ever been but did eventually get to Hawaii West bound with F Team), and then a return through Momote in the Admiralty Island; Zamboanga on the Southern tip of the Philippines, and back to Changi.
I won’t bore you with all the details of this adventure. But, they did include: keeping the RNZAF Orderly Officer company between beers while we did his rounds at Whenuapai, included checking WRNZAF block to ensure that all the girls were back safe and sound; sharing spells sitting on the Argosy’s wing for hours with the engineer holding the nozzle of the hose while the Argosy was being refueled from 45 gallon drums (which had been floated ashore from a passing cargo ship) by a team of chanting locals using a Kelson hand pump at Momote, a scene lit by flaming torches tied to surrounding palm trees, and chatting up an attractive young lady in a bar in Noumea on behalf of the smitten young GE who didn’t even have my limited schoolboy French! And, most significantly, having to do the whole trip 24/7 with a money-belt under my shirt which started out with some £20,000 in various currencies, mainly US dollars, to pay the hotel and miscellaneous bills incurred by the crew and our priceless passengers during this 10 day flight.
I never did find out how our illustrious passengers got home; probably back to Sydney and with a railway warrant. In my time it was not unknown for personnel posted to Sarawak to arrive by air at Changi with a railway warrant to Kuching.
Unlike Tony, I didn’t get a thank you letter but just a rather raw sore strip of skin around my waist!
Stay safe, have fun
David Powell F Team UKMAMS 1967-69
The Albert formerly known as XV213 enjoying it's afterlife
From: Brian Hunt, Brighton, East Sussex
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Dear Tony,
It just goes to show how little attention I paid to Task Plans when I was DAMO at Kaitak! I was by the steps the day the VCs and GCs boarded the plane, but had no idea about all the work that had been done before the event! I do remember feeling it was a privilege to be there and to speak to some of them.
Yours
Brian
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Dear Tony,
It just goes to show how little attention I paid to Task Plans when I was DAMO at Kaitak! I was by the steps the day the VCs and GCs boarded the plane, but had no idea about all the work that had been done before the event! I do remember feeling it was a privilege to be there and to speak to some of them.
Yours
Brian
From: Howard Farrow, Pontardawe, Swansea, Glam
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Hi Tony,
In 1976, I was selected along with five other movers from RAF Northolt, led by WO Alan Wincott, from STC, to pick up baggage from Buckingham Palace, for members of the Royal Family, the Queen, Prince Charles and entourage, who were travelling to America for the American Bicentenary celebrations.
We entered the Palace at one of the rear entrances, and were escorted to a room containing a large number of wooden containers, with wheels. We loaded the containers on to a 40 footer.
At this point, I was selected to go with a palace footman to get the paperwork for manifesting. We went into the lift which had a sign ‘Do not use this lift at certain times, due to HM the Queen and family’s use, and be mindful of Corgi droppings", which the footman stepped into on exiting the lift!
It was an interesting day, not to mention the departure through the main Palace gates with a police escort at the end.
Best regards
Howard (Taff) Farrow
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Hi Tony,
In 1976, I was selected along with five other movers from RAF Northolt, led by WO Alan Wincott, from STC, to pick up baggage from Buckingham Palace, for members of the Royal Family, the Queen, Prince Charles and entourage, who were travelling to America for the American Bicentenary celebrations.
We entered the Palace at one of the rear entrances, and were escorted to a room containing a large number of wooden containers, with wheels. We loaded the containers on to a 40 footer.
At this point, I was selected to go with a palace footman to get the paperwork for manifesting. We went into the lift which had a sign ‘Do not use this lift at certain times, due to HM the Queen and family’s use, and be mindful of Corgi droppings", which the footman stepped into on exiting the lift!
It was an interesting day, not to mention the departure through the main Palace gates with a police escort at the end.
Best regards
Howard (Taff) Farrow
RAAF instructors deliver air cargo training to Fiji troops
Royal Australian Air Force School of Administration and Logistics Training instructors developed and delivered dangerous goods training and an air cargo preparation course over three weeks, as part of Exercise Coral Warrior 2023. The training is designed to enhance military capabilities and interoperability between Australia and Fiji, while also offering an opportunity to teach and share knowledge with the RFMF. It also assists Australian mobile air load teams when working with RFMF, streamlining aircraft turnaround times by ensuring loads are packed and prepared to meet Australian standards.
Movements Training Development Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Sergeant Roxanne Phillip said the four-person team enjoyed their time with the RFMF members. “Air Movements Instructor Flight Sergeant Anne Strode and I provided the movements side of the training for the air cargo preparation course, which was an invaluable experience for both RAAF and RFMF interoperability,” SGT Phillip said. “We instructed lessons in the science behind building pallets, calculations, passenger processing, and aircraft limitations. The students were hands-on in preparing vehicles and also building different types of cargo pallets for air transportation.”
Training Instructor Sergeant Daniel Richards was delighted with how the RFMF approached the training and made the Air Force team feel welcome. “From a training perspective, it was impressive to see how the RFMF embraced the dangerous goods training concepts and excelled at them,” SGT Richards said. “The RFMF treated us like family, and it was an added bonus to be thanked by the Fijian President. As a dangerous goods instructor, this experience showed how flexible a technically challenging course can be, and how to better manage my own instructional style and planning.”
defenceconnect.com.au
Movements Training Development Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Sergeant Roxanne Phillip said the four-person team enjoyed their time with the RFMF members. “Air Movements Instructor Flight Sergeant Anne Strode and I provided the movements side of the training for the air cargo preparation course, which was an invaluable experience for both RAAF and RFMF interoperability,” SGT Phillip said. “We instructed lessons in the science behind building pallets, calculations, passenger processing, and aircraft limitations. The students were hands-on in preparing vehicles and also building different types of cargo pallets for air transportation.”
Training Instructor Sergeant Daniel Richards was delighted with how the RFMF approached the training and made the Air Force team feel welcome. “From a training perspective, it was impressive to see how the RFMF embraced the dangerous goods training concepts and excelled at them,” SGT Richards said. “The RFMF treated us like family, and it was an added bonus to be thanked by the Fijian President. As a dangerous goods instructor, this experience showed how flexible a technically challenging course can be, and how to better manage my own instructional style and planning.”
defenceconnect.com.au
RAAF Sergeant Roxanne Phillip giving a practical lesson on the 10,000 lb cargo net at Suva, Fiji
From: Budgie Baigent, Takaka, Tasman
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Hi Tony,
Once again my thanks to you for keeping us all in touch thru the OBA network - fabulous work.
My 'Proudest Mover Moment' was in November 2004 when I was selected as the sole Air Movements operator on the NZDF mission to repatriate New Zealand's 'Unknown Warrior' from the Somme to our National War Memorial in Wellington. At that time I was the Air Movements Officer in charge of the RNZAF Air Terminal at Wellington Airport so I already had a comprehensive working relationship with the [Government, Military & Civilian] agencies who would play a part in the reception of our Warrior at Wellington. To complete the assignment I was tasked with travelling to France aboard our B757 with the NZ contingent to effect and ensure a seamless journey for our Warrior from the former battlefield to his reception and handover to the citizens of New Zealand at Wellington airport.
Subject: Proudest Mover Moment
Hi Tony,
Once again my thanks to you for keeping us all in touch thru the OBA network - fabulous work.
My 'Proudest Mover Moment' was in November 2004 when I was selected as the sole Air Movements operator on the NZDF mission to repatriate New Zealand's 'Unknown Warrior' from the Somme to our National War Memorial in Wellington. At that time I was the Air Movements Officer in charge of the RNZAF Air Terminal at Wellington Airport so I already had a comprehensive working relationship with the [Government, Military & Civilian] agencies who would play a part in the reception of our Warrior at Wellington. To complete the assignment I was tasked with travelling to France aboard our B757 with the NZ contingent to effect and ensure a seamless journey for our Warrior from the former battlefield to his reception and handover to the citizens of New Zealand at Wellington airport.
A carefully choreographed plan was put in place which included a brief stopover at Whenuapai airbase to move the casket from the hold of the B757 onto a C130 to allow a dignified ramp ceremony on arrival at Wellington. This was a critical step in the process so to be 'ahead of the eight ball' we elected to depart early from Darwin the night before so we had time up our sleeve should there be a hiccup but... as we prepared to land at dawn, some twenty minutes ahead of schedule, the crew called a ‘Mayday’ with a nose landing gear malfunction! After aborting the landing and circuiting while endeavouring to manually lower the undercarriage, emergency services were readied on the ground. Minutes passed then... bang on the scheduled landing time, the nose undercarriage mysteriously freed itself and locked into place. This was just one of many ‘mystical’ events that occurred during our journey - a very special sense of spirit or aura accompanied us throughout the whole journey.
The subsequent grand arrival, ceremonial parade and handover inside our Air Movements terminal at Wellington went without a hitch and later the Warrior continued his journey by land to Parliament, the Cathedral and ultimately his final resting place at our National War Memorial. As he made that final journey to the tomb on Armistice Day 2004, over 100,000 people lined the streets of Wellington - a number that has not been repeated since. I am forever humbled and proud to have played a small part in such an extraordinary event - a life-long memory.
The subsequent grand arrival, ceremonial parade and handover inside our Air Movements terminal at Wellington went without a hitch and later the Warrior continued his journey by land to Parliament, the Cathedral and ultimately his final resting place at our National War Memorial. As he made that final journey to the tomb on Armistice Day 2004, over 100,000 people lined the streets of Wellington - a number that has not been repeated since. I am forever humbled and proud to have played a small part in such an extraordinary event - a life-long memory.
The Internment Ceremony
The interment ceremony was led by Andrew Renton-Green, chairman of the National War Memorial Advisory Council. Governor-General Dame Silvia Cartwright gave a eulogy, and poet Vincent O’Sullivan read his specially commissioned poem ‘Homecoming – Te Hokinga Mai’. National War Memorial kaumātua (Māori elder) Sam Jackson sang a karakia (prayer), and a blessing of the tomb given by Colonel Julian Wagg, principal defence chaplain.
Dignitaries placed flowers and samples of soils from around the country and from France in the sarcophagus. The public were allowed to pay their respects before the sarcophagus was finally sealed. (mch.govt.nz)
Cheers for now,
Budgie
The interment ceremony was led by Andrew Renton-Green, chairman of the National War Memorial Advisory Council. Governor-General Dame Silvia Cartwright gave a eulogy, and poet Vincent O’Sullivan read his specially commissioned poem ‘Homecoming – Te Hokinga Mai’. National War Memorial kaumātua (Māori elder) Sam Jackson sang a karakia (prayer), and a blessing of the tomb given by Colonel Julian Wagg, principal defence chaplain.
Dignitaries placed flowers and samples of soils from around the country and from France in the sarcophagus. The public were allowed to pay their respects before the sarcophagus was finally sealed. (mch.govt.nz)
Cheers for now,
Budgie
Australia buys 20 new C-130J Hercules from the US just weeks after UK retires aircraft
Australia is set to buy 20 new C-130J Hercules for their air force from the US, just one month after the UK retired its Hercules fleet. The new Hercules will replace the 12 already in service with the Royal Australian Air Force, costing $9.8 billion, with the first expected to be delivered from late 2027.
Richard Marles MP, Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, said the Hercules is "an important capability for our defence force, but also for Australia as a nation. From bushfire and flood emergencies across the country, the delivery of crucial supplies to the region during the COVID-19 pandemic and more than two decades supporting peacekeeping operations, this has and will continue to be a crucial asset," he said." The Albanese Government, the federal executive government of Australia, was committed to ensuring the Australian Defence Force was equipped with the capabilities it needed to keep Australians safe, adding: "This targeted expansion of the fleet size will do just that."
The Hercules has regularly been used in search and rescue missions, disaster relief and medical evacuations, as well as being involved in every major Australian defence operation in recent decades - including in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Pat Conroy MP, Australian Minister for Defence Industry, said Australia is buying the aircraft "to respond to the wide range of challenges our nation will face in the future". Since 1999, the C-130J Hercules has served Australia across our region and beyond, proving to be a reliable workhorse in roles from humanitarian operations to conflict zones," he said. "Having 20 aircraft, up from 12, will mean more opportunities for local industry to sustain the aircraft, creating more Australian jobs. There'll also be jobs associated with infrastructure redevelopments at RAAF Base Richmond."
forces.net
Richard Marles MP, Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, said the Hercules is "an important capability for our defence force, but also for Australia as a nation. From bushfire and flood emergencies across the country, the delivery of crucial supplies to the region during the COVID-19 pandemic and more than two decades supporting peacekeeping operations, this has and will continue to be a crucial asset," he said." The Albanese Government, the federal executive government of Australia, was committed to ensuring the Australian Defence Force was equipped with the capabilities it needed to keep Australians safe, adding: "This targeted expansion of the fleet size will do just that."
The Hercules has regularly been used in search and rescue missions, disaster relief and medical evacuations, as well as being involved in every major Australian defence operation in recent decades - including in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Pat Conroy MP, Australian Minister for Defence Industry, said Australia is buying the aircraft "to respond to the wide range of challenges our nation will face in the future". Since 1999, the C-130J Hercules has served Australia across our region and beyond, proving to be a reliable workhorse in roles from humanitarian operations to conflict zones," he said. "Having 20 aircraft, up from 12, will mean more opportunities for local industry to sustain the aircraft, creating more Australian jobs. There'll also be jobs associated with infrastructure redevelopments at RAAF Base Richmond."
forces.net
Ken Davie's Log Book Entries
From: Ken Davie, Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Subject: My old log book!
Found this the other day Tony! 55 years ago! Yikes!
Subject: My old log book!
Found this the other day Tony! 55 years ago! Yikes!
Got-El-Afrag, Libya, 1968. Dave Allen, Dave Gillinder, Tommy Benson and Ken Davie
On the 7th of May 1968, during a fly-past at the improvised desert strip Got-El-Afrag, Libya, Argosy XR133 flown by John Proctor, flew into the runway, cartwheeled and blew up, according to the official report. There were no survivors - the memory of that day has stayed with me all these years
From: Steve Murray, Newport, Monmouthshire
Subject: Where are they now?
Hi Tony,
Subject: Where are they now?
Hi Tony,
I'm trying to locate an old mate of mine from Lyneham late 60's his name is David Marsden or could be David Marsland. He hailed from Northern Ireland and had the strongest accent I've ever encountered, so much in fact that sometimes I couldn't understand him! He was a Supplier but was in Movements, as was my brother John. The last I heard about Dave, he was at Gutersloh. Any info would be gratefully received.
Have a great day.
Steve
Have a great day.
Steve
David Marsden/Marsland?
Canada awards Airbus US$2.7 billion tanker deal for 9 planes
A Royal Australian Air Force A330 MRTT (Airbus)
WASHINGTON — Canada’s National Defence Department announced today that it has awarded a contract to Airbus for a total of nine aircraft to modernize its refueling fleet, a $3.6 billion CAN ($2.7 billion US) deal that should see delivery of the first jet to the country within months.
“As autocratic regimes threaten the rules-based international order, there is a pressing need to modernize the capabilities of the Royal Canadian Air Force in support of North Atlantic Treaty Organization and North American Aerospace Defense Command operations,” Canadian Minister of National Defence Anita Anand said in a statement. “The Strategic Tanker Transport Capability brought forward today with the contract award for renewed air-to-air refueling, strategic transport and aeromedical evacuation capabilities, will deliver modern equipment for our Canadian Armed Forces, who put their lives on the line every single day to defend our shared continent with the US, and support our allies in time of need,” she added.
The contract covers the new build of four A330 MRTTs and the military conversion of five used A330-200 aircraft, a decision the Canadian government said saved the country’s taxpayers millions.
Four of the used aircraft are set to be used as refuelers, while the fifth — the first destined for delivery later this summer — will initially transport high-ranking government officials and could take on the tanker mission later. The second used aircraft is expected in the fall, with the next three to follow next year, according to a summary compiled by Canada’s Defence Department. An Airbus press release further stated the first of the newly-built tankers will be delivered in 2027 and that all MRTTs will feature both a hose and drogue and boom for refueling.
The tankers will replace the Royal Canadian Air Force’s aging CC-150 Polaris fleet to provide refueling, cargo and passenger transport and aeromedical evacuation. While Canada operates five CC-150s, only two of them are capable of refueling. That means the NATO member’s mid-air refueling capacity is about to quadruple with the new agreement.
breakingdefense.com
“As autocratic regimes threaten the rules-based international order, there is a pressing need to modernize the capabilities of the Royal Canadian Air Force in support of North Atlantic Treaty Organization and North American Aerospace Defense Command operations,” Canadian Minister of National Defence Anita Anand said in a statement. “The Strategic Tanker Transport Capability brought forward today with the contract award for renewed air-to-air refueling, strategic transport and aeromedical evacuation capabilities, will deliver modern equipment for our Canadian Armed Forces, who put their lives on the line every single day to defend our shared continent with the US, and support our allies in time of need,” she added.
The contract covers the new build of four A330 MRTTs and the military conversion of five used A330-200 aircraft, a decision the Canadian government said saved the country’s taxpayers millions.
Four of the used aircraft are set to be used as refuelers, while the fifth — the first destined for delivery later this summer — will initially transport high-ranking government officials and could take on the tanker mission later. The second used aircraft is expected in the fall, with the next three to follow next year, according to a summary compiled by Canada’s Defence Department. An Airbus press release further stated the first of the newly-built tankers will be delivered in 2027 and that all MRTTs will feature both a hose and drogue and boom for refueling.
The tankers will replace the Royal Canadian Air Force’s aging CC-150 Polaris fleet to provide refueling, cargo and passenger transport and aeromedical evacuation. While Canada operates five CC-150s, only two of them are capable of refueling. That means the NATO member’s mid-air refueling capacity is about to quadruple with the new agreement.
breakingdefense.com
Continued progress has been made towards the new digital verification service to apply for a HM Armed Forces Veteran Card
The Ministry of Defence and the Office for Veterans’ Affairs are jointly delivering this service as part of ongoing improvements in veterans support.
The OVA led the initial Discovery and Alpha phases, establishing how the Veteran Card can be delivered in the most simple and effective way. The MOD has now taken on its development and will deliver the service. It is a significant technical project and has required highly skilled support from Defence Digital and Government Digital Service (GDS) experts.
The new verification service to support applications will include:
The OVA led the initial Discovery and Alpha phases, establishing how the Veteran Card can be delivered in the most simple and effective way. The MOD has now taken on its development and will deliver the service. It is a significant technical project and has required highly skilled support from Defence Digital and Government Digital Service (GDS) experts.
The new verification service to support applications will include:
- online applications via GOV.UK
- identity checks using GOV.UK’s new One Login service
- automated service checking to confirm veteran status for most applications using MOD service records databases
- increasing MOD’s secure card printing capacity to deal with the expected applications using a new high-capacity card printing machine
The HM Armed Forces Veteran Card will allow veterans to quickly and easily prove their veteran status where required, thereby granting them simpler access to key support from government, charities, local authorities, and other organisations.
Roll-out will be in phases according to service years to manage the volume of requests and prevent any potential delays resulting from demand exceeding capacity.
With around 1.8 million veterans in the UK, we are focused on building the technology and processes to deal with large volumes of card applications accurately and securely.
Testing started this summer, and we expect cards to become available to veterans later this year. A paper-based application process will also be made available for veterans who are unable to use the online service.
Since December 2018, all Service leavers automatically receive a Veteran Card from the MOD as part of their discharge process and so do not need to apply. The new verification service will address how to replace a lost Veteran Card.
This will be updated with details of the application process later in the year.
Ministry of Defence and Office for Veterans' Affairs
Roll-out will be in phases according to service years to manage the volume of requests and prevent any potential delays resulting from demand exceeding capacity.
With around 1.8 million veterans in the UK, we are focused on building the technology and processes to deal with large volumes of card applications accurately and securely.
Testing started this summer, and we expect cards to become available to veterans later this year. A paper-based application process will also be made available for veterans who are unable to use the online service.
Since December 2018, all Service leavers automatically receive a Veteran Card from the MOD as part of their discharge process and so do not need to apply. The new verification service will address how to replace a lost Veteran Card.
This will be updated with details of the application process later in the year.
Ministry of Defence and Office for Veterans' Affairs
The world's most powerful air forces in 2023
Global Firepower's ranking of the world's militaries in 2023. The ranking looks at how many helicopters, fighter jets, interceptors, bombers, transport jets, and other types of aircraft each country's air force has in its arsenal.
Here's how the top 25 countries rank:
Here's how the top 25 countries rank:
25: Mexico
A Mexican Air Force F-5 jet escorts the country's presidential plane
Mexico has 468 military aircraft, according to Global Firepower, putting it in 25th position in the air force ranking. Its arsenal includes 158 helicopters and three fighter/interceptor jets, but no attack helicopters or aerial tanker aircraft.
24: Thailand
Thai parachutists during the "Cope Tiger 2010" joint air force exercise over Lop Buri province, north of Bangkok
Thailand's 488 military aircraft include 73 fighter/interceptor jets, 18 attack aircraft, and seven attack helicopters, according to Global Firepower, giving it the 24th largest fleet in the world. The country also has 101 airports, though this only places it 52nd in the world in this category.
23: Spain
Members of the Spanish Air Force aerobatic group 'Patrulla Aguila' fly over San Lorenzo beach in Gijon, northern Spain, during an aerial exhibition July 29, 2007
Spain has 140 fighter/interceptor aircraft and 15 special-mission aircraft among its total fleet of 517 military aircraft. It also has 126 helicopters, Global Firepower said.
22: Iran
Iran's Army chief and the Iranian Armed Forces Chief of Staff visit the first underground air force base, called "Eagle 44" at an undisclosed location in Iran
Iran has 541 military aircraft, including 196 fighter/interceptor jets and 94 trainer aircraft, Global Firepower said. Its fighter fleet is the 16th largest in the world. Meanwhile, its seven aerial tanker aircraft place it seventh in the world in that category. The country also has 319 airports, the 21st highest total.
Air Force formations mark the 60th anniversary of Algerian Independence in Algiers in July 2022
Almost half of Algeria's 547 military aircraft are helicopters. The country has a total of 273 helicopters, including 50 attack helicopters, compared to its 90 fighter planes. Meanwhile, its 60 transport aircraft place it 11th in the world in that category.
21: Algeria
A KC-10 Extender based out of Al Dhafra Air Base in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, receives fuel from another KC-10
The United Arab Emirates has 565 military aircraft as of 2023, including 222 helicopters and 99 fighter/interceptor aircraft, according to Global Firepower. Its special-mission aircraft fleet is the 12th largest in the world, with 25 planes.
20: United Arab Emirates
19: Israel
An Israeli Air Force Sikorsky CH-53 helicopter during an aerial demonstration at a graduation ceremony for Israeli Air Force pilots.
Israel has 601 military aircraft, according to Global Firepower. This includes 241 fighter/interceptor aircraft and 153 trainer aircraft, as well as 11 aerial tanker planes, the fourth highest in the world in this category.
18: Germany
A German Tornado fighter jet arrives from a reconnaissance flight to the German camp in Mazar-e-Sharif August 28, 2009.
Germany ranks seventh in the world for its number of special-mission aircraft, at 37. Its fleet of 601 military aircraft also includes 134 fighter/interceptor aircraft and 287 helicopters, among which are 55 attack helicopters. It also has 539 airports, the 11th highest number in the world, Global Firepower said.
Aircraft are seen during a joint drill conducted by Israeli and Greek air forces in Israeli airspace on July 13, 2022.
It may surprise you to find Greece above Germany on this list. As of 2023, Greece had 635 military aircraft, according to Global Firepower, including 193 fighter/interceptor aircraft, but it has no dedicated attack aircraft, and also no aerial tanker planes.
17: Greece
British Forces from 16 Air Assault Brigade arrive in Kabul, Afghanistan, to provide support to British nationals leaving the country, as part of Operation PITTING
The UK has a fleet of 663 military aircraft, placing it 16th in the world as an air power, according to Global Firepower. This includes 233 helicopters and 119 fighter/interceptor aircraft, as well as 42 fixed-wing transport planes. But overall the UK ranked fifth in terms of total military power, highlighting how the size of its air force pales in comparison to other areas of its military.
16: UK
15: Brazil
Air Force officers parade during their graduation ceremony at the Brazilian Air Force Academy (AFA) in Pirassununga, Brazil in December 2018.
Brazil has 171 helicopters, but no attack helicopters, according to Global Firepower. Its 665 military aircraft include 209 trainer aircraft. It also has 4,093 airports, the second-highest number in the world.
14: Taiwan
A Taiwan air force pilot climbs into a French-made Mirage fighter at an airbase in Hsinchu during a routine military drill.
Taiwan has 737 military aircraft, including 285 fighter/interceptor aircraft and 207 helicopters, Global Firepower said, but it has no dedicated attack aircraft and no aerial tanker aircraft.
13: Italy
The aerobatic demonstration team of the Italian Air Force, the Frecce Tricolori (Tricolor Arrows), perform over the city on Republic Day, in Rome, Italy, in June 2021.
Italy has 850 military aircraft, according to Global Firepower. It has 84 dedicated attack aircraft and 404 helicopters, which means it ranks ninth in the world in both categories. It also has two aircraft carriers, which means it has the second-highest number in the world alongside India, China, and the UK, but far behind the US.
12: Saudi Arabia
A Saudi Air Force jet flies in formation during a graduation ceremony for air force officers at King Faisal military college in Riyadh
Saudi Arabia's 22 aerial tanker aircraft place it second in the world in that category, according to Global Firepower. Overall, its fleet of 897 military aircraft, which includes 258 helicopters and 34 attack helicopters, ranks 12th in size.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspects the Korean People's Army (KPA) Air and Anti-Air Force Unit
North Korea has 458 fighter/interceptor aircraft as of 2023, the fifth-highest number in the world, according to Global Firepower. It also has 205 helicopters, of which 20 are attack helicopters, as well as one fixed-wing transport plane. But its fleet of 947 military aircraft includes no special-mission aircraft and no aerial tankers.
11: North Korea
10: France
A French pilot flies a Rafale jet fighter over the French Air Force base in Mont-de-Marsan, France
France ranked in the top 10 air force powers in 2023, with 1,004 military aircraft, Global Firepower said. It has 226 fighter/interceptor aircraft and 438 helicopters, but no dedicated attack aircraft. The country also has 114 fixed-wing transporters, a tanker fleet of 19, and one aircraft carrier, as well as three helicopter carriers.
Turkey has 110 attack helicopters and 205 fighter/interceptor aircraft, according to Global Firepower. But its fleet of 1,065 military aircraft includes no dedicated attack aircraft.
9: Turkey
The Turkish Stars aerobatic team from the Turkish Air Force perform with supersonic NF-5 aircraft during a parade marking the 86th anniversary of Republic Day in Ankara in October 2009
8: Egypt
Air Force Academy graduates attend a graduation ceremony in Cairo, Egypt.
Egypt has 1,069 military aircraft, including 245 fighters/interceptors and 341 trainer aircraft, Global Firepower said. The country also has two helicopter carriers, to go alongside its 92 attack helicopters, the seventh-largest fleet of this kind in the world. But Egypt's air force includes no aerial tanker planes, and it has a relatively small fleet of 11 special-mission aircraft.
7: Pakistan
Pakistan Air Force jets perform during an air show in Karachi, Pakistan.
Pakistan has 1,413 military aircraft, according to Global Firepower. Its fleet of 550 trainer aircraft is the second-largest in the world, while it also has 363 fighter/interceptor aircraft and 90 are attack aircraft, the seventh-largest fleets in both categories.
6: Japan
The 2nd Air Wing of Japan Air Self-Defense Force's F-15s fighters hold a joint military drill with US F-16s fighters at Sea of Japan
Japan ranked second in the world for the size of its special-mission aircraft fleet in 2023, according to Global Firepower, with 150 of these planes. Overall, its 1,451 military aircraft include 556 helicopters and 217 fighter/interceptor aircraft. The country also has four helicopter carriers, the second-highest number in the world.
South Korean soldiers participate in a ceremony to mark the 71st anniversary of Armed Forces Day at the Air Force Base in Daegu, South Korea.
South Korea has 1,602 military aircraft, according to Global Firepower. This includes 402 fighter/interceptor aircraft, 41 transport aircraft, and 98 dedicated attack aircraft.
5: South Korea
Indian Air Force "Sarang" helicopters perform during the full-dress rehearsal for Indian Air Force Day at the Hindon air force station on the outskirts of New Delhi
India has 2,210 military aircraft, including 807 helicopters and 577 fighter/interceptor aircraft, according to Global Firepower. It also has 254 fixed-wing aircraft, 73 special-mission planes, and two aircraft carriers.
4: India
3: China
Parachutists from China's People's Liberation Army air force perform at Airshow China in Zhuhai, Guangdong province.
China ranks second in the world for the size of its fighter/interceptor aircraft fleet, at 1,199. It has 371 attack aircraft. The country ranks third for overall number of helicopters (913), attack helicopters (281), dedicated attack aircraft (371), and transport aircraft (288). In total, China has 3,166 military aircraft as of 2023, along with two aircraft carriers, three helicopter carriers, and 507 airports.
2: Russia
Russia's President Vladimir Putin visits air force base number 393 in the town of Korenovsk in southern Russia
Russia has 4,182 military aircraft and ranked Russia second in the world for its number of dedicated attack aircraft (744), transport aircraft (444), helicopters (1,531), and attack helicopters (537). While Russia's military has suffered major losses since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, its air force has not been used significantly in the war, and so has not seen notable losses.
1: USA
US Air Force Thunderbirds sit on the tarmac while a helicopter picks up a downed pilot amid pyrotechnics simulation during a Vietnam War reenactment at the Sioux Falls Airshow in South Dakota
The US has the most military aircraft of any country in the world in 2023. The country has 13,300 military aircraft overall, which includes 1,914 fighter/interceptor aircraft, 5,584 helicopters, and 983 attack helicopters. The US dominated every category when it came to air power, including transport aircraft, special-mission aircraft, helicopters, trainers, and its tanker fleet. The country also has 13,513 airports, 11 aircraft carriers, and nine helicopter carriers, all the highest number in the world.
Construction to begin on Akrotiri's new passenger terminal
Construction is set to start on a new passenger terminal and freight facility at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus following a groundbreaking ceremony. As part of a £66m contract, they will replace the existing passenger and freight handling facility built in the 1960s.
The passenger terminal is used by troops and their families for travelling home to the UK and the new facility is expected to handle 700 passengers a day. The terminal is often the first and last sense of ‘home’ for personnel who pass through when deploying further afield.
The existing passenger terminal is not big enough to handle the volume of passengers transported on modern RAF planes. It was built for VC-10 aircraft, which carried 131 passengers while their replacement, RAF Voyagers, carry 291 passengers and 14 crew, often causing overcrowding in the departure and arrival areas.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday morning, Brigadier Andrew Dawes, Deputy Commander of British Forces Cyprus, said the multimillion-pound contract is a "really significant investment" in both Cyprus and RAF Akrotiri. "This is the first step on a major transformation of RAF Akrotiri," Brig Dawes said. "This brings RAF Akrotiri into the modern age and gets us closer to that ambition of a fifth-generation air base. But most significantly, it will be designed to operate an inbound Voyager at the same time as an outbound Voyager, as well as handling freight from an A400M," he added.
The building contract – awarded by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation and UK Strategic Command - forms part of the Apollo Programme designed to upgrade Ministry of Defence (MOD) sites in Cyprus.
The new terminal roof replicates the wings of a Typhoon and the cladding pattern is designed in the style of Lefkara lace. Lefkara lace or Lefkaritika is a form of traditional handmade lace made exclusively in Cyprus and protected by Unesco as part of the country’s cultural heritage. Incorporating the Lefkaritika pattern into the new terminal's design aims to pay homage to Cyprus.
Its expected passengers can start to use the new building by 2027.
forces.net
The passenger terminal is used by troops and their families for travelling home to the UK and the new facility is expected to handle 700 passengers a day. The terminal is often the first and last sense of ‘home’ for personnel who pass through when deploying further afield.
The existing passenger terminal is not big enough to handle the volume of passengers transported on modern RAF planes. It was built for VC-10 aircraft, which carried 131 passengers while their replacement, RAF Voyagers, carry 291 passengers and 14 crew, often causing overcrowding in the departure and arrival areas.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday morning, Brigadier Andrew Dawes, Deputy Commander of British Forces Cyprus, said the multimillion-pound contract is a "really significant investment" in both Cyprus and RAF Akrotiri. "This is the first step on a major transformation of RAF Akrotiri," Brig Dawes said. "This brings RAF Akrotiri into the modern age and gets us closer to that ambition of a fifth-generation air base. But most significantly, it will be designed to operate an inbound Voyager at the same time as an outbound Voyager, as well as handling freight from an A400M," he added.
The building contract – awarded by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation and UK Strategic Command - forms part of the Apollo Programme designed to upgrade Ministry of Defence (MOD) sites in Cyprus.
The new terminal roof replicates the wings of a Typhoon and the cladding pattern is designed in the style of Lefkara lace. Lefkara lace or Lefkaritika is a form of traditional handmade lace made exclusively in Cyprus and protected by Unesco as part of the country’s cultural heritage. Incorporating the Lefkaritika pattern into the new terminal's design aims to pay homage to Cyprus.
Its expected passengers can start to use the new building by 2027.
forces.net
RAAF uses Spartan to deepen regional ties
The Royal Australian Air Force’s 35 Squadron is seeking to increase its footprint in far North Queensland and the Torres Strait as part of joint force operations with the Leonardo C-27J Spartan airlifter. One of the squadron’s aircraft recently completed a three-day deployment to far North Queensland, carrying out community engagement tasks as well as interacting with Army units stationed in the region.
It involved the aircraft making a 2,200 kilometre (1,200 nautical mile), 5.5-hour non-stop flight from RAAF Base Amberley outside of Brisbane to Horn Island just to the north of the Australian mainland and back.
Executive Officer of 35 Sqn Squadron Leader Nathan Thompson told ADM that the deployment was part of a wider push by Defence and the squadron into the Torres Strait, demonstrating the C-27J’s capability and enabling the squadron’s future access to the region to work with Joint Force partners in support of Australia’s wider strategic objectives.
The deployment also marked a number of firsts: this being the first time a C-27J has landed on a Torres Strait island north of the regional air hub of Horn Island, with a landing on Badu Island 45 kilometres to the north. The visit to Badu Island was a demonstration of the C-27J’s Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) capabilities that will serve it well on the small airfields that dot the islands of the Torres Strait, with the runway at Nona Aerodrome on Badu Island being just 820 metres (2,690 feet) long. This capability will enable the aircraft to directly support regional communities in times of need, such as for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) in the aftermath of natural disasters.
While at Badu Island the 35 Sqn contingent, which comprised to two pilots, two loadmasters, and three ground crew, conducted an enthusiastically welcomed community engagement event with locals. It was an opportunity for the islanders to tour the inside of the C-27J guided by the 35 Sqn crew, which included Leading Aircraftwoman (LACW) Raba Nona, who is originally from Badu Island.
The 35 Sqn contingent also visited Sarpeye Barracks on Thursday Island while they were in far North Queensland. The facility is home to C Company of the Army’s 51st Far North Queensland Regiment (FNQR), the Regional Force Surveillance Unit responsible for the region. “The engagement was an opportunity to understand their needs and how to support efforts in the region better, an opportunity to gain an understanding of what the unit does,” explained SQNLDR Thompson. It’s about opening the line of communications, making sure that our joint force partners understand the capabilities that we can bring to them in the battlespace so we can work together and use the platform more efficiently”.
This includes the possibility of assisting 51 FNQR to rapidly move ground forces around or conduct aerial resupply through airdrop to those elements who are potentially conducting clandestine surveillance operations (in the region), he added.
SQNLDR Thompson says the ability of the squadron to support the Torres Strait and other taskings this year has to do with the increased corporate knowledge of the C-27J enterprise, with the increased rate of effort and investment from the Commonwealth and Through Life Support contractor Northrop-Grumman Australia leading to increased capability and increased flying hours available to the fleet.
35 Sqn has already had a busy 2023 so far, with its aircraft having been tasked with supporting numerous HADR efforts in Australia and the region. This includes a seven-week effort by two aircraft flying between Broome and Derby in Western Australia, following the January floods. This was followed by two aircraft supporting New Zealand and other aircraft the Northern Territory, following similar disasters in February and March.
The C-27Js have also been deployed twice this year in support of Operation Solania, the ADF’s efforts to providing improved maritime surveillance and deter illegal fishing throughout the South Pacific.
One aircraft is also in Papua New Guinea to enhance the capabilities of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), and three aircraft from the fleet of ten are generally available to support joint force taskings.
australiandefence.com.au
It involved the aircraft making a 2,200 kilometre (1,200 nautical mile), 5.5-hour non-stop flight from RAAF Base Amberley outside of Brisbane to Horn Island just to the north of the Australian mainland and back.
Executive Officer of 35 Sqn Squadron Leader Nathan Thompson told ADM that the deployment was part of a wider push by Defence and the squadron into the Torres Strait, demonstrating the C-27J’s capability and enabling the squadron’s future access to the region to work with Joint Force partners in support of Australia’s wider strategic objectives.
The deployment also marked a number of firsts: this being the first time a C-27J has landed on a Torres Strait island north of the regional air hub of Horn Island, with a landing on Badu Island 45 kilometres to the north. The visit to Badu Island was a demonstration of the C-27J’s Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) capabilities that will serve it well on the small airfields that dot the islands of the Torres Strait, with the runway at Nona Aerodrome on Badu Island being just 820 metres (2,690 feet) long. This capability will enable the aircraft to directly support regional communities in times of need, such as for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) in the aftermath of natural disasters.
While at Badu Island the 35 Sqn contingent, which comprised to two pilots, two loadmasters, and three ground crew, conducted an enthusiastically welcomed community engagement event with locals. It was an opportunity for the islanders to tour the inside of the C-27J guided by the 35 Sqn crew, which included Leading Aircraftwoman (LACW) Raba Nona, who is originally from Badu Island.
The 35 Sqn contingent also visited Sarpeye Barracks on Thursday Island while they were in far North Queensland. The facility is home to C Company of the Army’s 51st Far North Queensland Regiment (FNQR), the Regional Force Surveillance Unit responsible for the region. “The engagement was an opportunity to understand their needs and how to support efforts in the region better, an opportunity to gain an understanding of what the unit does,” explained SQNLDR Thompson. It’s about opening the line of communications, making sure that our joint force partners understand the capabilities that we can bring to them in the battlespace so we can work together and use the platform more efficiently”.
This includes the possibility of assisting 51 FNQR to rapidly move ground forces around or conduct aerial resupply through airdrop to those elements who are potentially conducting clandestine surveillance operations (in the region), he added.
SQNLDR Thompson says the ability of the squadron to support the Torres Strait and other taskings this year has to do with the increased corporate knowledge of the C-27J enterprise, with the increased rate of effort and investment from the Commonwealth and Through Life Support contractor Northrop-Grumman Australia leading to increased capability and increased flying hours available to the fleet.
35 Sqn has already had a busy 2023 so far, with its aircraft having been tasked with supporting numerous HADR efforts in Australia and the region. This includes a seven-week effort by two aircraft flying between Broome and Derby in Western Australia, following the January floods. This was followed by two aircraft supporting New Zealand and other aircraft the Northern Territory, following similar disasters in February and March.
The C-27Js have also been deployed twice this year in support of Operation Solania, the ADF’s efforts to providing improved maritime surveillance and deter illegal fishing throughout the South Pacific.
One aircraft is also in Papua New Guinea to enhance the capabilities of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), and three aircraft from the fleet of ten are generally available to support joint force taskings.
australiandefence.com.au
Canadian, French transport aircraft collide at Guam air base
A Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CC-150 Polaris and a French Air and Space Force (AAE) A400M transport aircraft collided on the ground at Anderson Air Force Base in Guam. On July 21, 2023, the two aircraft were on the ramp at the US Air Force base when they came into contact.
The French Ministry of Armed Forces confirmed the incident in an email to AeroTime, indicating that the Canadian aircraft was being towed during the collision. “On July 22, 2023, at 10:30 AM, a CC-150 aircraft from the Royal Canadian Air Force accidentally collided with a parked A400M aircraft from the French Air and Space Force at Andersen Air Force Base on Guam Island,” the ministry said in a statement. “The engines were turned off, and there were no personnel on board, so no injuries were reported. Both aircraft’s horizontal stabilizers were damaged. Analyses are currently underway to assess the extent of the damage and conduct necessary repairs as soon as possible. An investigation is ongoing to determine the causes of the incident,” the statement concludes.
The incident was first reported by Global News, citing a statement from the Canadian Department of National Defence. “There was no one on board the Canadian aircraft at the time and there are no reported casualties,” a spokesperson for the department told the Canadian news portal, hinting that the aircraft were either taxiing or being towed at the time of the incident.
Both the RCAF and the AAE were deployed to Guam to participate in interallied exercises organized by the United States Pacific Air Forces (PACAF), such as Exercise Mobility Guardian 2023 which ran from July 5 to 21, 2023.
On July 10, 2023, training turned into practice as French, Canadian, and US forces were involved in a joint search and rescue operation to save the operator and passengers of a distressed fishing vessel.
aerotime.aero
The French Ministry of Armed Forces confirmed the incident in an email to AeroTime, indicating that the Canadian aircraft was being towed during the collision. “On July 22, 2023, at 10:30 AM, a CC-150 aircraft from the Royal Canadian Air Force accidentally collided with a parked A400M aircraft from the French Air and Space Force at Andersen Air Force Base on Guam Island,” the ministry said in a statement. “The engines were turned off, and there were no personnel on board, so no injuries were reported. Both aircraft’s horizontal stabilizers were damaged. Analyses are currently underway to assess the extent of the damage and conduct necessary repairs as soon as possible. An investigation is ongoing to determine the causes of the incident,” the statement concludes.
The incident was first reported by Global News, citing a statement from the Canadian Department of National Defence. “There was no one on board the Canadian aircraft at the time and there are no reported casualties,” a spokesperson for the department told the Canadian news portal, hinting that the aircraft were either taxiing or being towed at the time of the incident.
Both the RCAF and the AAE were deployed to Guam to participate in interallied exercises organized by the United States Pacific Air Forces (PACAF), such as Exercise Mobility Guardian 2023 which ran from July 5 to 21, 2023.
On July 10, 2023, training turned into practice as French, Canadian, and US forces were involved in a joint search and rescue operation to save the operator and passengers of a distressed fishing vessel.
aerotime.aero
From: Adrian Ryan, St. John, NB
Subject: HM Voluntary National Insurance Contributions
Hi Tony,
Just wanted to pass along some info to those of us living abroad but still working in our new Country. I am sure everyone else is aware, but I for one was not, that you can have your contributions reduced and still receive your full UK Pension. The difference is £780 reduced to £163 annually. You just have to meet the criteria.
I was fully paid up and then they changed the rules, so I owed a few more years to get me to the full benefits level. After speaking with the NI contributions office, I was informed that I should apply for Class2 contributions. The form is NI38, it takes no time to complete, and the response time is 8 weeks. Big savings so don't miss out if you're still working.
Link attached for those who are interested. Happy to answer any questions that I can.
Adrian
Social Security abroad: NI38 - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Subject: HM Voluntary National Insurance Contributions
Hi Tony,
Just wanted to pass along some info to those of us living abroad but still working in our new Country. I am sure everyone else is aware, but I for one was not, that you can have your contributions reduced and still receive your full UK Pension. The difference is £780 reduced to £163 annually. You just have to meet the criteria.
I was fully paid up and then they changed the rules, so I owed a few more years to get me to the full benefits level. After speaking with the NI contributions office, I was informed that I should apply for Class2 contributions. The form is NI38, it takes no time to complete, and the response time is 8 weeks. Big savings so don't miss out if you're still working.
Link attached for those who are interested. Happy to answer any questions that I can.
Adrian
Social Security abroad: NI38 - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
The UK, represented by a Royal Air Force detachment, is one of seven countries to take part in an American-led exercise, the largest readiness exercise in the history of the United States' Air Mobility Command.
Exercise Mobility Guardian 23 included more than 70 aircraft from the allied nations, taking part over 3,000 [square] miles of the Indo-Pacific region. The lessons learned during this exercise will influence deployments for years to come.
Exercise Mobility Guardian 23, which has also supported several other deployments in the area, was conducted over a two-week period. The aircraft assisted in transporting equipment, personnel, and supplies in support of other ongoing missions.
forces.net
Exercise Mobility Guardian 23 included more than 70 aircraft from the allied nations, taking part over 3,000 [square] miles of the Indo-Pacific region. The lessons learned during this exercise will influence deployments for years to come.
Exercise Mobility Guardian 23, which has also supported several other deployments in the area, was conducted over a two-week period. The aircraft assisted in transporting equipment, personnel, and supplies in support of other ongoing missions.
forces.net
RAF joins 70 aircraft from seven countries on one of the largest US-led exercises in history
Six Countries Contribute to Impressive Elephant Walk on Guam
Six allies joined in an elephant walk at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, on July 19, showcasing the international air armada they are currently fielding in the Indo-Pacific.
The U.S., United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, and France all contributed to the 23-plane formation, which included fighters, bombers, transports, and aerial tankers.
U.S. Air Force aircraft included:
The U.S., United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, and France all contributed to the 23-plane formation, which included fighters, bombers, transports, and aerial tankers.
U.S. Air Force aircraft included:
- Five F-35 fighters from the 419th Fighter Wing at Hill Air Force Base, Utah
- One B-52 bomber from the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale Air Force Base, La
- Two KC-135 tankers from the 92nd Air Refueling Wing at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash
- Two C-17 transports from the 60th Air Mobility Wing at Travis Air Force Base, Calif
- One C-130 from the 19th Airlift Wing at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark
Joining in from the allies were:
- France: Four Rafale fighters, one A400 Atlas transport aircraft, and one A330 MRTT from the French Air and Space Force
- United Kingdom: One A400 Atlas from the Royal Air Force
- Canada: One C-130J and one CC-150T Polaris from the Royal Canadian Air Force
- Japan: One C-130H from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force
- Australia: One C-130J from the Royal Australian Air Force
airandspaceforces.com
Firefighters from Brazil sit on a Royal Canadian Air Force Hercules aircraft at Abbotsford International Airport, in Abbotsford, B.C., on Sunday, July 23, 2023, as they prepare for a flight to Prince George where they will be deployed to various areas to assist with the wildfires burning in the province. The 100 firefighters from Brazil will join the approximately 500 international firefighters who are already in the province assisting more than 2,000 provincial personnel battling hundreds of fires.
The Canadian Press
The Canadian Press
100 Brazilian firefighters deployed to Prince George, BC, fire centre
Mystery Hulk
From: Ian Berry, West Swindon, Wilts
Subject: Re: Mystery Hulk
Hi Tony,
I think you obviously read that somewhere in the XM496 documents?
I tried a couple of weeks ago and was stumped. All frames seemingly accounted for and so a mystery. Even got down to the year it appeared and I even worked on it during my JAMC course at Abingdon in 1967! Just wondering if there was a possibility it was an ex-RCAF CL44?
Ian
Subject: Re: Mystery Hulk
Hi Tony,
I think you obviously read that somewhere in the XM496 documents?
I tried a couple of weeks ago and was stumped. All frames seemingly accounted for and so a mystery. Even got down to the year it appeared and I even worked on it during my JAMC course at Abingdon in 1967! Just wondering if there was a possibility it was an ex-RCAF CL44?
Ian
A Rare Sight in the National Capital Region
It was indeed a very rare sight - yours truly suited and booted instead of the usual blue jeans and t-shirt!
Constanza and I were invited recently to the 213th Anniversary of the Independence of Colombia which was held at the Colombian Ambassador's residence in Ottawa.
We had a wonderful time, there was a live band, plenty of Colombian snacks and the wobbly pop was flowing.
For the eagle-eyed, yes, I'm wearing a UKMAMS tie (thanks to Keith Parker!), very proudly carrying the flag, so to speak.
TG
Constanza and I were invited recently to the 213th Anniversary of the Independence of Colombia which was held at the Colombian Ambassador's residence in Ottawa.
We had a wonderful time, there was a live band, plenty of Colombian snacks and the wobbly pop was flowing.
For the eagle-eyed, yes, I'm wearing a UKMAMS tie (thanks to Keith Parker!), very proudly carrying the flag, so to speak.
TG
"This is Charlie Whun-Thuree-Zeeero Over and Out!"
Tony Gale
ukmamsoba@gmail.com
ukmamsoba@gmail.com
This Newsletter is Dedicated
to the Memories of
Alister Goodall (RAF)
Ken Auckett (RAAF d.2019)
to the Memories of
Alister Goodall (RAF)
Ken Auckett (RAAF d.2019)