AIRF RCEVol. 56, No. 17, September 11, 2014 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

EXERCISE PITCH BLACK 2014 – SPECIAL LIFTOUT

ON TOP OF THE WORLDTwo E-7A Wedgetails

take part in this year’s third Exercise

Red Flag Alaska

CENTRE

A No. 2 Squadron E-7A Wedgetail returns after completing a mission during Exercise Red Flag Alaska 2014-3. Photo: SGT Andrew Eddie

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2 September 11, 2014RCEAIR FNews

LEUT Peter Croce

LOGISTICS officer AIRCDRE Hayden Marshall will look back on the closure of the Redeployment Fusion Cell (RFC) at Headquarters Joint Task Force 633 (HQ JTF633) as a milestone in the history of Operation Slipper.

AIRCDRE Marsha l l , t he Deputy Commander Support, has overseen the tail-end of a redeploy-ment project that will be completed on time and significantly under budget.

The RFC coordinated in-thea-tre redeployment activities, which involved the deconstruction or gift-ing of infrastructure, remediating land, clearing cargo to be returned to Australia and disposal of other items.

AIRCDRE Marshall, who is the former Director General of Support at Headquarters Joint Operations Command (HQJOC), has had a long involvement with ADF operations in the Middle East Region (MER), having spent five years at HQJOC before deploying to HQ JTF633 in October 2013 just before Australia completed its mission in Uruzgan.

“This experience offered me the unique opportunity to compare and contrast the recent prepara-tions and redeployment activities in Afghanistan with similar events in Timor-Leste and Solomon Islands,” he said.

“It has been a privilege to work with a highly motivated group of professionals across the entire sup-ply chain.”

Reason to be pleased

An additional 150 personnel were deployed to the MER to assist with the extra effort required for the redeployment from Tarin Kot.

Two C-17A aircraft were assigned to JTF633 for three months to assist with the extraction of vehicles and equipment from Afghanistan, along with the two C-130J aircraft already in-situ.

“Significant cross-levelling of equipment occurred with the clo-sure of Tarin Kot to ensure that maximum advantage was taken of ADF-owned equipment already in Afghanistan and careful atten-tion was paid to the identification of heritage items,” AIRCDRE Marshall said.

“More than 160 items were returned to Australia for the Australian War Memorial, ADF units or recognised civilian enti-ties.”

He said the role had given him the chance to lead a strong team of logisticians from across all three services and the APS,

with the opportunity to travel to Afghanistan on a regular basis to engage coalition partners, which has helped to leverage their support to assist Australian efforts.

The visits also offered the opportunity for lessons and insights regarding the Australian experiences on redeployment, which assisted the preparations for the redeployment task.

“It’s always encouraging to hear views and opinions from coali-tion partners regarding the positive manner in which the Australian redeployment is being seen and the way ADF personnel have con-ducted themselves,” AIRCDRE Marshall said.

“We have found new and inno-vative ways to complete redeploy-ment tasks that have been previ-ously untried or tested.

“Sale of excess material to the local market, giving items to our Afghan partners and the United Nations and extensive use of US equipment destruction capabilities

at major bases have all significant-ly reduced the size and scope of the redeployment task.”

He said working with contrac-tors at Tarin Kot identified there was local interest in purchasing the waste materials generated from the deconstruction of temporary facili-ties, which significantly reduced costs and saved time.

He also said Australia’s logisti-cal and administrative support base at Al Minhad Air Base in the UAE had proved its value as a safe and secure operating location to sup-port ongoing sustainment and rede-ployment requirements throughout the MER.

“We had a good plan that was well resourced and well executed by incredibly professional people,” he said.

“The job is not done yet, with personnel still in Afghanistan – so plenty of ground work is under way to ensure that the next phases of redeployment are as well pre-pared as they can be.”

‘We have found new and innovative ways to completeredeployment tasks that have been previously untried or tested. – AIRCDRE Hayden Marshall

AIRCDRE Hayden Marshall and, below, a container is moved on to a flatbed truck as part of the closure.

Photos: CPL Janine Fabre and WO2 Rob NyffeneggerTHE Redeployment Fusion Cell in Headquarters

Joint Task Force 633 coordinated all in-theatre redeployment activities including deconstruction or gifting infrastructure, remediating land, clear-ing cargo to be returned to Australia and disposal of items.

The retrograde planning for the extraction of ADF personnel and materiel started in 2011 before Australia took the lead for security opera-tions in Uruzgan.

In January 2012, the Transition Redeployment Planning Team (TRPT) under BRIG Dianne Gallasch was stood up and conducted planning to extract the bulk of the ADF from Afghanistan.

In January 2013, the TRPT was re-formed into the Redeployment Fusion Cell (RFC) under BRIG Andrew Bottrell to focus on the actual extraction of personnel and equipment and reme-diation of facilities.

The main focus was the closure of Multinational Base Tarin Kot by December 15, 2013, then the drawdown of Kandahar Air Field and Kabul in 2014 to set up for the Resolute Support Mission.

AIRCDRE Hayden Marshall took over as Director General Transition and Remediation and later became Deputy Commander Support in October 2013 and saw the close-out of the RFC tasks in August this year.

Story of the drawdown

Sales2000 ISO containers, 75 vehicles, furniture, build-ing material and obsolete computer equipment.

DestructionSignificant quantities of out-of-date and obsolete ammunition, equipment and stores items were destroyed using ADF, US and British facilities.

GiftsTO AFGHAN ARMY  1100 Drehtainer Armoured Accommodation

containers  60 x 20-foot ISO containers  7000 items of furniture   4000 items of tools, gym equipment and

kitchen equipment

TO UNITED NATIONSSeveral 20-foot ISO containers, relocatable build-ings, generators, furniture, white goods and other equipment worth $500,000.

Return to AustraliaPersonnel1700 personnel from AFG reducing the footprint in AFG down to about 450 personnel.Equipment  214 x Drehtainer Armoured Accommodation

Modules

  100 x PMV

  5 x ASLAV

  36 x Light B Vehicles

  43 x Medium B Vehicles

  53 x Heavy B Vehicles

  Two million items of stores including ammu-nition (15 tonnes), petrol, oils and lubricants, pharmaceuticals, uniforms, field kit, spare parts, weapons and radios.

3September 11, 2014RCEAIR F News

Australia’s Invictus Games team. Photo: CPL Mark Doran

SGT Lia HalsallAge: 42Enlisted RAAF: 2000Job: Personnel capability specialist Unit: No. 23 Squadron,

RAAF Base AmberleyEvents: 50m freestyle, 50m

breaststroke, 50m backstroke, swimming relay team and sitting volleyball

In November 2012, SGT Halsall was diagnosed with breast cancer and has managed to overcome her diagnosis and the associated chemotherapy treatment.

“The Invictus Games have given me back my motivation,” she said.

“The biggest challenge for me will be the fatigue because on a cellular level I’m still recovering from my chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment.

“It’s been a much longer process than I’d anticipated. But what didn’t kill me only made me stronger and I just have to keep reminding myself of that.”

FSGT Tony BenferAge: 50Enlisted RAAF: 1991Job: Physical training instructor Unit: No. 23 Squadron,

RAAF Base AmberleyEvents: Swimming events,

wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby

In June 2007, FSGT Benfer was the victim of a hit-and-run accident, which resulted in a below-knee amputation, right pinkie amputation, an artificial right elbow and a titanium rod in his right thigh.

He has competed in the US Ma-rine Corps Trials from 2011 to 2014, the Arafura Games and Australian Rowing Championships in 2011 and the NSW Rowing Championships in 2012.

“I first learnt of the Invictus Games when I was competing at the Trials in March this year,” he said.

“I am very happy and excited to be selected.

“This formidable combination of RSL and ADF personnel will make an awesome Aussie representative team that I am honoured and very proud to be part of.”

SQNLDR Daniel Jeffery

Age: 48Enlisted RAAF: 1983Job: Aeronautical engineer Unit: No. 81 Wing,

RAAF Base WilliamtownEvents: 4 x 100m relay, javelin,

wheelchair basketball, rugby and sitting volleyball

SQNLDR Jeffery is recovering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety and depression.

He decided to take part in the games after being contacted by the ADF Paralympic Sports Association.

“I was at a point in my recovery where I was ready and able to test myself outside of my comfort zone,” he said.

“I had a mixture of excitement and pride at being able to represent not only the ADF but all veterans.

“The games have driven me back to physical exercise and given me an immediate goal.”

Air Force’s athletesTeam London-bound

The GamesATHLeTeS selected to represent Australia at the inaugural Invictus Games include three Air Force members, nine current and 18 former Army person-nel, three serving and two former Navy members and one former Royal Marine.

Athletes from 14 na-tions will compete in nine sports during the Games, including athletics, ar-chery, indoor rowing, road cycling, swimming, sitting volleyball, wheelchair bas-ketball, wheelchair rugby and powerlifting.

CDF ACM Mark Binskin shows his support for the Invictus Games.Photo: David McClenaghan

CPL Mark Doran

AustrAliAn athletes preparing to compete at the inaugural invictus Games in london gathered for a farewell reception in sydney on september 3.

they were farewelled by Governor-General GEn sir Peter Cosgrove.

the ADF, in partnership with the rsl, is supporting a team of 36 cur-rent and former serving wounded, injured and ill members to compete in the inaugural competition.

the invictus Games is an interna-tional adaptive multi-sport competition championed by His royal Highness Prince Harry. More than 400 athletes from 14 countries will attend the Games from september 10-14.

speaking to the team, the Governor-General said the athletes were not necessarily just competing against other athletes.

“You are beating the notion that there are things you can’t do,” sir Peter said.

“You will be climbing two moun-tains – one is that of competition and one is your expectations, or even your apprehensions.

“You have already made us proud, make us prouder still.”

the farewell reception also fea-tured a video support message from Prime Minister tony Abbott, dur-ing which he told the team they had already served their country and made sacrifices for the nation.

“You fought for our values and our freedoms,” Mr Abbott said.

“i wish you well as you embark for these invictus Games.

“May they inspire you to indeed be the masters of your fate and the cap-tains of your soul.”

Vice-captain of the Australian team and former soldier Geoff Evans said the support from the Prime Minister was a further boost for the athletes.

“there was a great sense of excitement, as well as humility, when we saw the Prime Minister was back-ing us, and encouraging the team to give it our best effort,” Mr Evans said.

“it was also a privilege to be

farewelled by the Governor-General, who spoke from the heart when he acknowledged our service and sac-rifice.”

He said there had been a long build up to the invictus Games.

“We have put in a lot of training and effort, and it’s very important for us to do well, not just as a team, but as individuals overcoming our per-sonal battles on the journey to recov-ery,” Mr Evans said.

“Having our families with us also recognises the importance of family support in recovery.

“now we just can’t wait to get to london to compete against other nations in the great spirit of camara-derie.”

the athletes arrived in london as this edition went to print.

For more information, visit http://www.defence.gov.au/Events/InvictusGames/

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4 September 11, 2014RCEAIR FNews

No. 95 Wing’s Exp los ive o r d n a n c e D i s p o s a l F l i g h t (EoDF) has saved Defence about $9.5 million by conduct-ing a series of missile disposal activities in Woomera over three years.

This program meant the dis-posal did not have to be contract-ed out.

In addition to the direct sav-ings, indirect savings were also achieved through a reduction of storage cost and the release of space for new items within the ADF national explosive ordnance storage and distribution network.

oIC EoDF SQNLDR Kelly Morris said maintaining this capa-bility ensured Defence could be responsive to requirements for bulk disposal at short notice with-in a cost-conscious environment while also meeting governance requirements for time-expired explosive ordnance.

WoFF Pete Douglass, of EoDF No. 1 Security Forces Squadron, said there were more than 150 legacy time-expired

SM-1 surface-to-air guided weap-ons as well as a wide variety of other time-expired explosive ord-nance disposed of over the three years.

Low-order disposal techniques on plastic base explosive Mk 83 and H6-filled Mk 82 general pur-pose bombs were also conducted to build experience in advanced EoD techniques.

Experience of this nature aids operators in providing realistic advice to command and assists operators with tactical EoD assessments.

WoFF Douglass said the task was broken up over three years due to its size and other tasking commitments.

“The number of trucks author-ised to move explosive ordnance limited the amount we could get to Woomera each year in our dis-posal window,” he said.

“Also, by exposing new per-sonnel to the operation, including planning, over the extended period there was more value in the train-ing.”

The disposal was coordinated by HQAC, EoDF and Manager Guided Weapons East Laurie McDougall, of Defence Materiel organisation (DMo).

“The planning was very com-plex with many stakeholders,” WoFF Douglass said.

“It included ascertaining total stock to be disposed of and prepa-ration for transport, staff numbers, allocation of explosive ordnance transport by Thales Australia, securing the venue with the Woomera Range Board, alloca-tion of funds from DMo, safety and health with the help of Health Services Wing (HSW), environ-mental planning and disposal operations.”

It took 12 months of initial planning before phase one was completed in November 2012 and the subsequent phases completed in November 2013 and July this year.

“We averaged 18 people on each occasion comprising EoDF staff and two from HSW,” WoFF Douglass said.

“In addition, there were the Thales Transport or Woomera staff who administer the range.”

WoFF Douglass said it had been a long time since a logistic disposal operation was attempted by EoDF.

“Before this, the last attempt would have been in 2004,” he said.

“This activity provided valu-able training and exposure of sen-ior EoDF members to planning requirements for large scale dis-posal. Personnel who conducted the disposal are now more capa-ble for future large-scale disposal tasks.”

The quote to DMo for a con-tract solution for the disposal of the SM-1s was about $10 million.

Total expenditure including accommodation, civilian plant hire, allowances and transport was about $500,000, saving Defence about $9.5 million on alternate disposal options.

EoDF will look to reduce cost further by using Airfield Engineers to provide plant support during the task.

OFFCDT Alexandra Hendry

SEEING is now believing for C-130J Hercules pilots, thanks to a new system that records in-flight data for the certification of aircraft systems and post flight review.

Aerospace Systems Engineering Squadron (ASESQN) has developed a mission data recording system for the collection of C-130J bus data and video imagery of cockpit displays and interactions.

ASESQN aeromechanical design engineer Jeremy Sequeira said the non-standard modifica-tion provided data that helped Air Mobility Group (AMG) and Joint Electronic Warfare Operational Support Unit (JEWOSU) certify the radar warning receiver (RWR) on the C-130J.

“The system records information while the aircraft is in flight, which can then be compared to what the pilot sees, hears and does in the cock-pit,” Mr Sequeira said.

“Once JEWOSU has ensured the collected data corresponds to what the RWR should be display-ing to the pilot for a given threat, AMG can certify the aircraft to enter higher-risk environments.

“Pilots can also review the video data post flight to confirm or refine their manoeuvres after a threat warning was issued.”

ASESQN design engineer Jamie Presser said ASESQN developed the system to support No. 84 Wing’s participation in a RWR trial with the RAF and USAF.

“We designed the system using hardware we already had, meaning we were able to develop, manufacture and deliver the system to the Air Lift Systems Program Office within five months of Development and Test Wing accepting the task,” Mr Presser said.

“The instrumentation was so successful at supporting 84WG requirements that the RAF sought details of the system for their own use.”

ASESQN lent the recording system to 84WG for two months of trials in California, providing 24-hour support and training to AMG maintenance personnel in installing and operating the system and processing the data.

After the success of the trials, 84WG extended the loan for this year’s Red Flag Alaska and Pitch Black, and further activity in January 2015.

Defence Materiel Organisation is now devel-oping a production modification based on the ASESQN design to install on a number of 84WG C-130J aircraft.

Disposal program saves millions

A 37SQN Hercules takes off from Delamere Range Facility during Exercise Pitch Black. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

Pilots go to the video

Budding aviators get glimpse of careersSQNLDR Malcolm Grieve

WINTER-like weather failed to deter thousands of visitors coming to the 14th Aviation Careers Expo at Brisbane International Airport on August 23.

Air Force provided a display on the flightline and in the exhibition, with a KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport and FA/18F Super Hornet attracting most of the attention.

Also popular was the Air Force fast jet simulator, according to Defence Force Recruiting careers promotion team leader FLTLT Andre Holmes.

“This event was a first-rate opportunity for young Australians seeking a job in Air Force, to see first-hand our leading-edge technol-ogy and to talk with young men and women who are already in train-ing,” FLTLT Holmes said.

“As well, the simulator is prob-ably the closest thing to really fly-ing a fast jet, and provides us with the chance to identify potential applicants.”

Career seekers were able to explore the diverse range of jobs on offer in the Air Force, with informa-tion seminars on engineering and technical trades throughout the day.

FSGT Geoff Stinson, of 33SQN, shows visitors the KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport. Photo: CPL Jessica de Rouw

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5September 11, 2014RCEAIR F News

Have you ceased your ADF pay allotment yet?

From 12 February 2015 members’ non-BSB discretionary allotments (deductions) will be ceased. Members must undertake the following steps:

For more information visit the FAQs on the Defence One website

To do list

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ADF mission in Iraq continues

CPL Aaron Curran

PERSONNEL, friends and family can now donate towards the 2014 Defence Blood Challenge.

This year’s challenge opened on September 1 and will run until November 31.

WGCDR Joseph Medved, of the C-27J Project Office in Canberra, is the 2014 Air Force Blood Challenge ambassador and regularly donates plasma to the Red Cross.

His son, Matthew, was diagnosed with hypoglobulinaemia, which means he does not produce sufficient antibod-ies.

This makes Matthew susceptible to infections and unable to fight them off until his next monthly IntragamP intra-venous infusion.

“I give plasma because my son needs it,” WGCDR Medved said.

“It takes longer, but you can give plasma every two weeks instead of every three months with a normal blood donation.

“Plasma is important because there are some products, such as IntragamP, that can’t be synthetically produced – you need blood-sourced plasma.”

WGCDR Medved has been donat-ing for 10 years, up to eight times a year, and said anyone could need a blood product, transfusion or a product sourced from blood.

Get involvedTHE Defence Blood Challenge started on September 1 and goes for three months. Throughout this period, all donations from Air Force, Army, Navy and Defence civilians, as well as their friends and family members, are tracked and tallied through Club Red online. The winners are determined by highest percentage of donations against service size and high-est overall number of donations. This year, CAF has set Air Force’s donation target at ‘2014 in 2014’. Personnel must register with the Blood Service to ensure their dona-tion is counted.

To register, visit http://www.donate-blood.com.au/defence

“It could be you or someone you love,” he said.

“All it takes is someone to roll up their sleeve and not sit back and rely on someone else to donate.

“Unfortunately, there’s a very low take-up rate because people just don’t think it affects them and they always think there is someone else who will do it.”

It’s time to roll up your sleeves

WGCDR Joseph Medved is the 2014 Defence Blood Challenge ambassador for Air Force. Photo: Aurora Daniels

C-130J Hercules loadmaster FSGT Josh Kelly conducts pre-flight checks before departing for northern Iraq with 15 bundles of humanitarian aid. Photo: CPL Janine Fabre

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AUSTRALIA has delivered military stores into northern Iraq in support of the international humanitarian assistance mission.

RAAF C-17A Globemaster air-craft delivered the cargo to Erbil in northern Iraq in two separate mis-sions.

Chief of Joint Operations VADM David Johnston said the shipments were evidence of Australia’s continu-ing commitment to the people of Iraq.

“These supply runs are vital and most appreciated by those at the fore-front of the campaign against Islamic extremists,” VADM Johnston said.

After the first delivery, the air-craft returned to Al Minhad Air Base (AMAB) in the UAE on September 3.

The aircrew had flown from AMAB via Tirana in Albania where the aircraft was loaded.

In the second mission, the Globemaster flew from Tirana in Albania via Baghdad before delivery on September 4.

Both missions were carried out without incident.

VADM Johnston said further aid, stores and support flights might be planned to assist the people of north-ern Iraq, who remained under threat from extremist Islamic fighters.

“The aircrew and support staff at Joint Task Force 633 have done a great job to successfully coordinate this mission to assist the people of northern Iraq,” VADM Johnston said.

“Our contribution in Iraq will con-tinue to be coordinated with the Iraqi government, regional countries and our international partners.”

The delivery of military stores occurred just days after Australia completed a second humanitarian aid drop to assist the people of Iraq on August 31.

An RAAF C-130J Hercules deliv-ered 15 bundles of Australian human-itarian supplies to isolated civilians in the northern Iraqi town of Amirli.

The supplies included high-energy biscuits, bottled water and hygiene packs, which are designed to feed and hydrate 2600 people for 24 hours.

It followed an Australian humani-

tarian aid drop on August 14, which delivered nine tonnes of supplies to Yezidi civilians trapped on Mount Sinjar in the country’s north.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott said Australia’s contribution in Iraq would continue to be coordinated with the Iraqi government, regional countries and international partners to prevent the humanitarian crisis from deepen-ing.

“The situation in Iraq represents a humanitarian catastrophe,” he said.

“Australia remains in close con-tact with the US and other interna-tional partners and we will continue to work to alleviate the humanitarian situation in Iraq and address the secu-rity threat posed by ISIL.”

RAAF C-130J Hercules and C-17A Globemaster aircraft remain available to assist with more tasks.

The Australian mission is consist-ent with similar assistance being pro-vided by the US, Albania, Canada, Croatia, Denmark, Italy, France and the UK.

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6 September 11, 2014RCEAIR F95 Wing

FLTLT Darren Carruthers

NO. 1 Combat Communication Squadron (1CCS) is preparing for a workforce reorganisation, which will ensure the ADF is better equipped to provide communications and informa-tion systems (CIS) services.

For almost 50 years, 1CCS has predominately been based at RAAF Base Richmond.

It has had the mission of provid-ing a specialised range of deployable communications services, informa-tion systems, navigational aids and advice in support of ADF, allied and regional forces within Australia and at deployed locations.

In more recent years, the de-embedding of Air Force CIS person-nel from other Defence groups has enabled 1CCS to establish flights at RAAF Bases Williamtown, Amberley

and Townsville in recognition and support of broader ADF expedition-ary communication requirements.

The recent restructure of Combat Support Group (CSG), the acquisition of more capable air platforms and an increased ADF focus on intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capa-bilities has necessitated the reorgani-sation of the 1CCS workforce.

Early next year, 1CCS headquar-ters will relocate to RAAF Base Amberley and a 1CCS flight will be established at RAAF Base Edinburgh.

CO 1CCS WGCDR Michael Mammana said the relocation would enable closer liaison and synergy between 1CCS, the Combat Support Co-ordination Centre (CSCC) and No. 295 Squadron.

“This in turn will promote greater synergy between 1CCS and the CSG plans and operations functions, result-

OVER the past 18 months, No. 383 Squadron has undergone a logistics review to improve the way it delivers air base logistics.

The review included the analysis of warehouse holdings, remediation of the light to medium airfield engineering equipment, remediation of the bare bases and development of command briefs.

FLTLT Trent McIntosh said he esti-mated the stock holdings in the 383SQN warehouse were reduced by 75 per cent.

“This reduction included the disposal of 32,000 obsolete items, the disposal or return of 25,000 individual legacy items, the transfer of management of more than 15,000 items contained in obsolete capability kits, and the transfer of 14,000 consumable items from the warehouse to the Air Force Engineering Tool Store,” FLTLT McIntosh said.

The review of airfield engineering equipment resulted in the reduction of about 70 per cent of not-in-catalogue and unsupported equipment.

“We established a tool store mod-elled on flying squadrons to deliver better logistics support and enable more streamlined logistics processes,” FLTLT McIntosh said.

“Investigation of the condition of

equipment held at the three bare bases revealed the majority of equipment was deteriorated and unusable.”

No significant control procedures were in place to maintain the integrity of the equipment and units utilising the bare bases were accustomed to bringing in the required equipment.

FLTLT McIntosh said to remediate the situation, all equipment was removed from the caches and the sites cleared.

“Three 250-person camps were cre-ated, containerised and stored at Joint Logistics Unit Wallangarra and the remaining equipment was either disposed of or returned to Joint Logistics Unit as appropriate,” he said.

Command support and training was the final area to be reviewed and resulted in the development and delivery of logistics continuation training, including 25 lessons delivered by 383SQN equip-ment section members, Lean yellow belt training and basic project management courses.

Overall, the logistics review has resulted in the reduction of more than 3000 staff hours required for logistics processes and governance through the reduced holdings and application of basic Lean methodologies.

1CCS members, from left, LAC Shane Strickland, LAC Jesse Smith, LAC Shaun Helbig, LAC Daniel Godlevsky, LAC Luke Marsden, CPL Liam Stewart and FSGT Andrew Maddison.

Review achieves drastic reduction

ing in increased transparency, support and communications expertise being made available to CSG commanders,” he said.

The establishment of a 1CCS flight at RAAF Base Edinburgh will provide local CIS support to the recently established No. 3 Security Forces Squadron, the intelligence community within AOSG and future aircraft platforms, such as the P-8A Poseidon.

A small contingent of 20 person-nel will establish the 1CCS flight.

However, based on future acquisi-tion projects, the flight will increase in size, according to the new flight 2IC, FSGT Andrew Maddison, who is responsible for planning the move.

“While there is still significant work required to get the flight estab-lished, I am looking forward to the challenge,” FSGT Maddison said.

It is expected the results of the

CSG CIS Capability Project and Project Zodiac will define how the 1CCS capability will evolve.

It is anticipated the outcomes of these projects will result in 1CCS being co-located with its major cus-tomers and stakeholders at RAAF Bases Amberley, Williamtown and Edinburgh. This will provide a stable organisational structure equipped to meet RAAF and ADF CIS needs well into the future.

Restructure looks to the future

CPL Kerrie Irons works in the 383SQN warehouse. Photo: CPL Glen McCarthy

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7September 11, 2014RCEAIR F 95 Wing

SQNLDR Jane Keddie and SQNLDR Belinda Johnson

THE Contingency Response Squadrons (CRS) have held a standardisation workshop to consolidate the lessons learned since their establishment late last year.

In a high-tempo period, the CRS have provided operational support to Operations Southern Indian Ocean and Bring Them Home, as well as exercise support to Cranky Wombat, Precision Red, Pitch Black, Arnhem Thunder and other activities.

One of the other aims of the work-shop was to standardise documentation and procedures for the CRS framework

in order to optimise Air Force support to contingency operations both domes-tically and abroad.

OC No. 95 Wing GPCAPT Peter Davis said the process provided an excellent opportunity to pause and reflect on the progress made and opera-tional outcomes so far.

The week-long workshop had strong attendance from a broad range of key stakeholders from throughout Combat Support Group (CSG), particu-larly the three CRS.

Personnel discussed how business was conducted and how it could be improved.

LACW Kina Noble, a personnel capability specialist from No. 1 Combat

Communications Squadron, said she loved the workshop.

“I found it invaluable in better understanding the important role com-munications play in a CRS,” LACW Noble said.

“I especially appreciated being able to contribute to developing procedures to better support our airmen in the lead-up to and while deployed on opera-tions.”

Some of the workshop outcomes included personnel capability smart-forms, operational manning and equip-ment document reviews and airfield engineering site planning considera-tions.

The CRS is augmented by skilled

and prepared personnel from a diverse range of capabilities from across CSG.

These include security, communica-tions, engineering, logistics, person-nel capability, intelligence, emergency response and health elements.

GPCAPT Davis said drawing per-sonnel from various units throughout CSG provided Air Force with an effi-cient and effective measure for optimis-ing domestic and operational capabili-ties.

“It allows for maximum employ-ment within permanent airbase servic-es, ensuring individual core skills are maintained, while also providing force assignment to the CRS for contingency taskings,” he said.

“The activity was therefore pivotal in enhancing a broader understanding of the differences between the roles of the previous Expeditionary Combat Support Squadrons and the new CRS as well as shaping core business operations to best meet these require-ments.”

Commander CSG AIRCDRE Tim Innes said the next focus for the contingency response was aligning all CSG capabilities with the Force Generation Cycle and recognising contingency response as an operation-al and whole-of-CSG capability.

“In order to achieve this, all ele-ments of CSG will need to embrace a readiness mindset,” he said.

Squadrons heed lessons

The CRS have been hard at work since their establishment late last year.

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8 September 11, 2014RCEAIR FNews

LS Jayson Tufrey

EXPOSURE to sub-zero tempera-tures, melting snow for drinking water and constructing a shelter from ice to survive the night does not conjure an idea of therapy to most people, but for recovering ADF members it has done wonders.

Exercise Cold Comfort was a collaboration between Soldier Recovery Centres (SRC), which support wounded, injured and ill soldiers, and the Army Alpine Association, an official Defence climbing club focused on the pro-motion of mountaineering as a means of developing skills and char-acter required to operate both on the battlefield and in the workplace.

The week-long activity in the Kosciusko National Park was also open to airmen, sailors, officers and cadets, who battled the freezing temperatures of an alpine winter from August 1-8.

The group trekked with snow-shoes and packs and towed their belongings on sleds to their first check point where they built an igloo for shelter.

SQNLDR Ken Kemp, of No. 1 Expeditionary Health Squadron Detachment Townsville, was the only Air Force member who took part in the exercise. He has previ-ously completed the extreme cold-weather survival course and said he was impressed with the activity.

Outside comfort zone

“This definitely rates as one of the top three experiences in my mili-tary career,” he said.

“The quality of the instructors was second to none; they knew how to push us to get the best out of us.

“I really enjoyed the practical exercises, such as building igloos and snow caves. Everybody just pulled together and worked as a team. I think this activity proves that if you surround yourself with good people you can do anything.”

SQNLDR Kemp said he was

being treated for PTSD. “The sys-tem has been brilliant in looking after me,” he said.

“I have received great support, but you just have to face the fact that you can’t do what you used to be able to do.”

Activity OIC LTCOL Matthew Rogerson said the group only car-ried half the tents that they required.

“It is imperative that we had to build some sort of improvised shel-ter for the night, so we decided to go with a snow-dome shelter due to the

lack of deep snow available, that we usually use to make snow caves,” he said.

“To make an impromptu shelter we put all the packs in a pile and then heaped snow on top of them.

“By that stage the snow hard-ened and we dug in from the side to extract the packs, which left a ready-made igloo.

“At the end of that we had the four biggest sceptics standing on top of the structure, who were quite amazed.”

CPL Aaron Curran

AIR Force’s accreditation as a breastfeed-ing friendly workplace was recognised with a certificate on August 1.

WGCDR Kelley Stewart accepted the certifi-cate on behalf of Air Force from Susan Day of the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA).

“I felt extremely proud to represent the Air Force and receive the official presentation of the certificate,” WGCDR Stewart said.

“While I was at the lectern I asked the conference attendees if they had heard of this achievement and the majority of them raised their hand.

“It was affirming and heart-warming be-cause it demonstrated that the public knew that we are looking after the health and family needs of our Air Force women.”

She said the certificate represented a signifi-cant amount of work undertaken by a number of people.

“The main work was the development of the Supporting Breastfeeding Mothers in the Air Force diversity guide, with the second edition released in May this year,” she said.

“The other major factor in the accreditation process was providing appropriate facilities for women to either breastfeed or to express and store breast milk during their work day.”

As part of the accreditation, Air Force wom-en are entitled to a discounted rate for the ABA Breastfeeding and Returning to Work webinar. However, all pregnant ADF members are entitled to reimbursement for breastfeeding education as part of antenatal education entitlements.

For more information, visit http://intranet.defence.gov.au/raafweb/sites/DWD/comweb.asp?page=1350740&Title=Breastfeeding

Certificate of accreditation

SQNLDR Ken Kemp in the alpine region of Kosciusko National Park during Exercise Cold Comfort.

To find out more about Merici Collegesee our website at www.merici.act.edu.auor contact the Enrolment Officer Ms Trish Ryan on (02) 6243 4102 or by email: patricia.ryan@merici.act.edu.au

9September 11, 2014RCEAIR F News

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THE contribution of five military work-ing dogs was recognised on August 4 when they were presented with ADF Trackers and War Dogs Association med-als.

The medals recognise the importance of military working dogs and their role in protecting Australia and its national security interests.

While the medal is not an official medal awarded by Defence, Commander CSG AIRCDRE Tim Innes presented the medals at a ceremony at No. 1 Security Forces Squadron (1SECFOR), RAAF Base Richmond.

Handlers from 1SECFOR accepted the medals of behalf of military working dogs Electra, Iron, Igor and Flynn, which were also present at the ceremony.

One medal was awarded posthumous-ly to MWD Emtee, which CPL Joanne Booth accepted on behalf of the section.

Emtee’s former handler, LACW Sarah Merril, said the medal meant a lot to her.

“Receiving the medal on behalf of Emtee meant that he wasn’t forgotten,” LACW Merril said.

“Even though he wasn’t there physi-cally, he was recognised for all his hard work, his many years of service and for

MEMBERS of RAAF Base Edinburgh joined with volunteers from Operation Flinders Foundation for a charity gate collection on August 14.

FLGOFF Gemma Donald said the team raised $2279.

“It was a great afternoon. People are just so generous,” she said.

RAAF Base Edinburgh conducts

10 charity gate collections each year.

Operation Flinders Foundation development manager Jonathon Robran thanked Edinburgh for its support.

He said the funds would assist in placing a team from the Gawler region on the Operation Flinders program, which provides the

opportunity for young people at risk to transform their lives through participation in an eight-day wil-derness adventure exercise in the northern Flinders Ranges.

“On behalf of the young people who will have the opportunity to participate, we thank the RAAF Base Edinburgh for your generous support,” Mr Robran said.

MILITARY working dogs were introduced into the RAAF in 1943.

They were untrained ‘savage’ dogs, which provided security by being turned loose in buildings and compounds, tied to aircraft or fixed to long lines so they could run back and forth along a fence line.

Military working dogs have come a long way since then and evolved into a highly trained capability, forming an inte-gral part of RAAF’s security element.

Their primary role is to protect mili-tary personnel and assets.

In peacetime, they provide security on military bases by conducting base patrols and securing aircraft.

Military working dogs also train on exercise for high-threat situations such as supporting security forces teams on operations, providing intruder detec-tion and crowd control, as well as threat deterrence.

RAAF Base Edinburgh gives generously at the gate

Five dogs have their dayAIRCDRE Tim Innes with the 1SECFOR Richmond Detachment team during the Australian Trackers and War Dog Association medal presentations. Photos: SGT Ricky Fuller

Military working dog handler CPL Tegan Blaby with Electra at the presentations.

AIRCDRE Tim Innes presents CPL Daniel Plumb with the medal for military working dog Iron.

doing his duty. I was so proud of him. Emtee is missed at the section. It was a privilege to work with him.”

CPL Patrick Hanley accepted the medal on behalf of MWD Flynn.

“For Flynn to receive his five-year medal was a great honour for us as a team,” CPL Hanley said.

“He has worked hard and it’s nice to have something to show for it.

“Flynn is a tremendous dog and my best friend. He is a great worker and is willing to do anything for me.”

The Australian Service Medal for mil-itary working dogs has a raised logo of a man and dog team from the Vietnam era, and is embossed with the military work-ing dog details.

To qualify, military working dogs must have completed no less than five years’ aggregated service on government security duties.

For more information about the ADF Trackers and War Dogs Association, visit http://aus-sietrackers.org/

MWDs have come a long way

Military working dog handler CPL Patrick Hanley with Flynn, one of the five dogs which received medals.

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11September 11, 2014RCEAIR F News

Back where it began

Forces join together for annual dining-in

PLTOFF Andrew Ziebell

MeMbers of No. 87 squadron con-verged on Coomalie Creek Airfield in the Northern Territory from across Australia to commemorate Victory in the Pacific Day from August 23-24.

The visit was also a celebration of the squadron’s rich history, as the air-field is the unit’s historical and spir-itual home.

established in 1942, Coomalie Creek Airfield was home to the origi-nal 87sQN during World War II.

The squadron operated the de Havilland DH-98 Mosquito and the CAC Wirraway in photo reconnais-sance roles in support of Allied Air Forces over the Pacific.

It disbanded in 1953 but reformed on July 1, 2006 to form the Air Force Intelligence squadron, providing focused, unified and coordinated intel-ligence for Air Force operational units.

Air intelligence analyst geospacial intelligence LAC Jackson Purtle said the visit was an opportunity to reflect on 87sQN’s past.

“The event brought into sharp relief the significance of the unit’s history, and the sacrifices made by members during WWII,” he said.

Air intelligence officer FLTLT Ashley Muir was one of the 18 mem-bers who also conducted a trip to the close Adelaide river War Cemetery, where a number of 87sQN members are buried.

“I was most struck by how young most of them were,” FLTLT Muir said.

“Most of them were my age and some were certainly younger.”

A tour of the airfield included vis-iting the remains of a Mosquito that crashed in 1945 and is now partially embedded in a tree.

The event culminated with a visit by members to the original photo development hut used in WWII and a commemoration service held at Coomalie Chapel.

“It was great to see pieces of 87sQN’s history still standing such as the photo hut, not to mention the run-way which is still in use,” ACW eliza Flavel said.

Personnel from 87SQN in front of a Harvard AT-6 on the runway at Coomalie Creek Airfield. Photo: CPL Terrence Culley

rAAF base Wagga sergeants’ Mess held its fifth NsW Police/Wagga sergeants’ Mess dining-in night on July 17.

Guests included rAAF base Wagga sADFO GPCAPT ross Jones and NsW Police Inspectors Peter robertson, Peter McClay and Mark Murphy, along with 19 NsW Police sergeants from the riverina area. In total 50 rAAF and NsW Police members attended and all agreed it was a fantastic night.

GPCAPT Jones said events like this were beneficial in building a strong relationship between rAAF base Wagga and the local police.

He said options for better train-ing opportunities for both organisa-tions had also been explored.

“It is through networking oppor-tunities like this that professional relationships are established, which in turn can lead to other mutually beneficial outcomes,” GPCAPT Jones said.

“some recent examples include the start of discussions between NsW Police and the school of Postgraduate studies on how each organisation develops their work-force for promotion and where there could be opportunities for exchang-ing ideas.”

A total of $450 was raised on the night for NsW Police Legacy.

12 13RCEAIR F September 11, 2014Centrepiece

Above snow-capped mountains and glaciers, the Wedgetail became the ‘eye in the sky’ for

dozens of aircraft during exercise Red Flag Alaska 2014-3.

Two e-7A Wedgetails from No. 2 Squadron took part in the advanced international air combat training activity, held at US Joint base elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage and eielson Air Force base in Fairbanks Alaska, from August 7-22.

exercise Red Flag Alaska is a US Pacific Air Forces Command-led large force employment exer-cise designed to replicate a high-end combat environment.

This was the third in a series

of four Red Flag Alaska exercises held this year.

A total of 54 members from RAAF base Williamtown’s 2SQN, including pilots, air combat officers, airborne elec-tronic analysts, maintenance and administration personnel, and intelligence officers, deployed for the exercise along with five members from No. 42 Wing who completed operational test and evaluation.

This was the third time the e-7A Wedgetail has participated in a Red Flag exercise, which is one of the biggest activities the aircraft contributes to each year.

Detachment Commander SQNLDR Glen Chettle said the exercise involved a series of air

combat and surveillance scenari-os that tested operational air and ground crews to the highest level.

“This is a very challenging environment for the crews to work in,” SQNLDR Chettle said.

“The environment in Alaska is unlike anything we can replicate in Australia.

“Here we have performed counter air, precision strike and offensive air support in packages of up to 60 aircraft.”

With the Wedgetails perform-ing daily sorties, ground support elements were also put to the test.

Warrant officer engineer WoFF Michael Tenaglia said the technicians worked long days to maintain the aircraft.

“This has been a valuable experience for many of the main-tenance staff and we’ve been able to complete high-end training so our guys can master their opera-tional skills in a highly technical environment,” he said.

oC 42WG GPCAPT Antony Martin said participating in exercise Red Flag Alaska was significant for the new e-7A Wedgetail aircraft.

“This exercise was important as we move towards declaring final operational capability,” GPCAPT Martin said.

“Red Flag also provided excellent opportunities for our personnel to integrate with a joint task force to learn how other countries operate.”

Two RAAF E-7A Wedgetails take to the sky during this year’s third Exercise Red Flag Alaska, Jaimie Abbott reports.

THE EXERCISEEXERCISE Red Flag Alaska 2014-3 saw partici-pants from Australia, the US and Britain come together in a large-forces exercise conducted in interior Alaska to simulate an air combat war-time scenario.

Aircrews operated in a Joint Alaska Pacific Range Complex of more than 173,500sq/km, which offered adequate space and ranges for crews to simulate full-scale aerial battles.

EYES IN THE SKY

Aircraft technician CPL Rick Macey conducts after-flight checks in the cockpit of a Wedgetail. Aircraft technician LAC Julian Velasquez prepares one of the Wedgetails for a mission. Avionics technician LAC James Hayes tests aircraft power in the cockpit of a Wedgetail.No. 2 Squadron maintenance personnel, (L-R) CPL Ricky Mace, WOFF Michael Tenaglia, CPL Matthew Sharman and SGT Luke Broadway, discuss pre-flight checks.

SGT Paul Barak checks a cold weather jacket during the exercise.

Avionics technician CPL Lachlan Woolford (right) oversees the startup of an RAAF E-7A Wedgetail.

A pair of No. 2 Squadron Wedgetails on the flightline during Exercise Red Flag Alaska.

Photos: SGT Andrew Eddie

A 2SQN E-7A Wedgetail prepares to land after completing a mission.

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HistoryRCEAIR F September 11, 2014 15

THE beginning of September marks 69 years since the end of hostili-ties in World War II. With peace achieved in Europe during May, it

was only in the Pacific area of operations that the war continued.

That came to an end on September 2, 1945 when the Japanese surrender was formally signed on the deck of the USS Missouri.

The Australian contingent present at the surrender ceremony was headed by GEN Sir Thomas Blamey, who signed the surrender document on behalf of Australia.

The RAAF was represented by Chief of Air Staff AVM George Jones and Air Officer Commanding RAAF Command AVM William Bostock.

Fighting in the Pacific region had ceased as early as August 15 as word of the Japanese surrender was transmitted throughout the region.

In the case of No. 100 Squadron RAAF, that message was received while its aircraft were returning from what is considered to be the last bombing mis-sion of World War II.

Because of the need to finalise the wording of the instrument of surrender and the necessity of gathering repre-sentatives from all of the Allied powers in Tokyo, more than two weeks elapsed before the final ceremony was carried out.

As the Allied representatives gathered in Tokyo, the USS Missouri, the flagship of ADM William Halsey, entered Tokyo Bay on August 29.

ADM Halsey was reported to have been concerned about the possibility of kamikaze raids even though the ceasefire had been announced.

He was reputedly the originator of the signal in August that stated: “Cessation of hostilities. War is over. If any Japanese airplanes appear, shoot them down in a friendly way.”

While celebrations marking the news of the war’s end were held across the

RAAF, it was soon evident that much was still to be done.

With thousands of Allied personnel still detained in deplorable conditions in prisoner-of-war camps, the RAAF began an intense series of airdrops, aeromedi-cal evacuation and repatriation flights in an attempt to ease the suffering of these prisoners as much as possible and to bring them home.

In one case, RAAF Catalina aircraft delivered 4500kg of blood plasma, peni-cillin and quinine to the 5000 Australians detained in Singapore.

Among the first of the ex-prisoners to be repatriated to Australia were the 24 survivors of the Malaya and Java cam-paigns captured at the very beginning of the war.

All 24, mostly from No. 1 Squadron, had been held in the forced labour camps on the Thai-Burma Railway.

War’s end signed in Japan

As Air Force marks the 100th anniversary of the first military flight in Australia, RAAF Historian Martin James continues to look at key events in our history.

GEN Sir Thomas Blamey signs the Japanese surrender documents on the deck of USS Missouri on September 2, 1945. Photo: Office of Air Force History

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED

2014

ExcellenceSecurityin

D E F E N C E

A W A R D SThe Deputy Secretary Intelligence and Security, Mr Steve Meekin has announced

the nine finalists for the 3rd Annual Defence Excellence in Security Awards.

Congratulations to all finalists and thank you to all who submitted nominations to

recognise those individuals and teams who are helping to strengthen our security culture.

DPSFEB004/14

Category 1: Outstanding contribution to security by an individual

• Mr Robert Brown, Submarine Force, Navy

• PO Julie Fairchild, Patrol Boat Group, Navy

• Mr Scott Harmer, Air Warfare Destroyer Program Management Office, Defence Materiel Organisation

Category 2: Outstanding contribution to security by a team

• Army SharePoint Team, Directorate of Enabling Systems Development - Army

• Command Security and Emergency Control Team, HMAS Stirling, Navy

• Defence Intelligence Security and Network Operations Development Team, Australian Signals Directorate

Category 3: Outstanding contribution to security by defence industry

• Security Committee of the Management Board Team, BAE Systems Australia

• SIESA Delivery Team, BSTTech Consulting

• Mr Philip Hawthorne, Berkeley Information Technology

FINALISTS IN THE 3rd ANNUAL DEFENCE EXCELLENCE IN SECURITY AWARDS

The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony to be held at Russell Offices in Canberra on 17 September 2014

Further information: DRN: intranet.defence.gov.au/securityawards

16 September 11, 2014RCEAIR FAir Force Improvement

Members from No. 79 Squadron’s centralised maintenance team, (L-R) LAC Benjamin Mann, LAC Dale Turner and LAC James Featherstone.

Squadron improves practices WGCDR Terry Pridham

The Air Combat Reform (ACR) team recently visited No. 79 Squadron at RAAF Base Pearce to provide onsite support to improving maintenance practices.

Considerable investment has been made by 79SQN to improve overall productivity by establishing a dedicated Maintenance Productivity Improvement Program (MPIP) team in pursuit of efficiencies towards CAF’s MPIP.

The team was established to con-centrate on key improvement initia-tives and to work with unit personnel to test new concepts and ideas.

The team members also provide section heads with regular updates, giving presentations on new initiatives, so relevant input can be obtained from key personnel.

Centralised maintenance teams have also been established, which regularly cross-trade authorise their personnel to gain increased productiv-

ity levels from their relatively small workforce.

Senior engineering Officer SQNLDR Bryan Newell and WO engineering WOFF Darren Whitford have been key advocates of resource cross-levelling and load-sharing in the unit. This has provided personnel with wide-ranging support for general improvements.

79SQN has set the bar high in Air Combat Group (ACG), with an overall low short-leave liability at the same time as achieving high levels of capa-bility against unit tasking and high morale.

CO 79SQN WGCDR Justin Fitzgerald said he was elated with the unit’s position.

“79SQN has had the benefit of the injection of some brilliant people over the past few years,” he said.

“The Senior Maintenance Manager and WO engineering have placed their trust in the unit personnel and they have responded accordingly by deliv-ering results. I couldn’t be happier.”

The squadron’s latest MPIP initia-tive is to establish a bar-coding system for monitoring and reporting the loca-tion of special purpose test equipment (SPTe).

The old manual system of checking SPTe in and out of the storage area

was prone to error and took some time for each transaction.

The new bar-coding system permits faster processing of information and provides an easy-to-check reporting function to identify exactly who has each item.

The system went live in August and is expected to make a small but impor-tant contribution to maintenance and logistics improvements.

Lessons learned from the ACR team’s visit will be considered for wider adaptation across ACG.

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17September 11, 2014RCEAIR F New Horizon

Eamon Hamilton

THROUGH its adoption of New Horizon, No. 37 Squadron has con-fronted and overcome hurdles in reforming its business.

With nearly 400 personnel at 37SQN, ownership of cultural change across the ranks and in a variety of different workplace environments has been the focus for CO 37SQN WGCDR Darren Goldie.

“New Horizon isn’t something that is stipulated by higher command, it is something that is necessary to provide the capability that Air Force requires,” WGCDR Goldie said.

“We started the journey in a top-down fashion and quickly learnt that the message was impossible to pass through traditional mediums and would be lost in the maze of communications typical of a unit our size.”

To put this in perspective, he said a standard brief to the squadron at the start of the year would only capture about 50 per cent of the workforce.

“The remainder are deployed, on a task, on another shift or on leave,” WGCDR Goldie said.

“The key is engagement at all levels and understanding that change doesn’t come through rules or instructions, it comes through ownership, engagement and action at all levels.”

Improvement The Unit Continuous Improvement

Team, led by FLTLT Justin Della Bosca, has seen embedded successes in areas as diverse as flightline move-

Looking over the horizon

ments, electronic publications, opera-tions room processes and aircraft fuel savings.

FLTLT Della Bosca said squadron members were willing to embrace the change.

“Our program gives individual members at all levels of the unit a vehi-cle to implement their ideas,” he said.

“This generates ownership of change and has promoted a great cul-ture of improvement in the unit.

“For instance, one of our pilots

is very environmentally aware and brought in a recycling program, while others are concentrating on CO2 emis-sions associated with fuel burn reduc-tion.”

Recent adoption of fuel-savings strategies in the Middle East Region have added an operational dimension to the savings with refuels being deferred or brought forward saving in excess of $400,000 a year.

Crews are aware of the ‘bowser price’ of fuel throughout the theatre,

and take the opportunity to refuel in cheaper cost centres where operational circumstances allow.

BehaviourLike many units, 37SQN has looked

internally and externally when consid-ering behaviours consistent with New Horizon.

This has resulted in a close relation-ship with White Ribbon Australia – an organisation committed to the preven-tion of violence against women.

CPL Jessica Johnson is a board

member of the White Ribbon National Youth Forum and WGCDR Goldie is a White Ribbon ambassador.

This relationship was brought closer when 37SQN members attend-ed the White Ribbon 10th annual Parliamentary gala fundraiser and donated a ‘Day at 37SQN’, which included a flight in the C-130J simula-tor for the successful bidder.

“Behaviours only change when people stand up for what they believe in,” CPL Johnson said. “While there is always more work to do, 37SQN is working hard to promote an inclusive and diverse workplace.”

SafetyThe third key foundation of New

Horizon is the promotion of a safe learning organisation.

At 37SQN, improvements contin-ue to be sought in audit performance, and the remediation that follows, for any deficiencies. Operational Safety and Airworthiness trailed Technical Airworthiness in process, which needed rectification.

A two-pronged approach of plan-ning and internal audit was taken, which led to the implementation of an annual Line Orientated Safety Audit and an Operational Airworthiness Management Plan.

While both are significant under-takings, they have led to a proactive program of safety and airworthiness amendment.

This sees the unit well positioned to respond to changes in higher-order requirements or directives.

Pilot FLTLT Melissa Picton, of 37SQN, flies a C-130J Hercules during a low-level tactical training mission.Photo: CPL David Said

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FeatureRCEAIR F September 11, 2014 19

FSGT Troy McKibbin never real-ised that watching Japanese car-toons on television would lead to an important role as a linguist on a

Japanese warship in the South China Sea.Since watching Astro Boy and

Battleship Yamato as a child, FSGT McKibbin’s journey has seen him spend five years working in Japan in the 1990s before returning to Australia to join the Air Force and qualify as a Japanese linguist.

To enhance his language skills, earli-er this year he embarked in the Japanese warship JS Kunisaki, which spear-headed the international humanitarian assistance exercise, Pacific Partnership.

FSGT McKibbin, of the Joint Electronic Warfare Operational Support Unit, was the ‘voice’ for the 270 mili-tary personnel involved in the annual exercise.

“My job in the JS Kunisaki chal-lenged me to facilitate important com-munication exchanges between the Japanese crew and the sea-riders from the US military and the ADF,” he said.

“It was a really great test of my skills, because I was involved in so many planning activities.

“Almost every task and ship revolu-tion that required teamwork involving the three partnership countries had me at the centre of coordination and plan-ning efforts.”

He also had the vital task of acting as interpreter for the military doctors who conducted free medical clinics in Da Nang in Vietnam, Sihanoukville in Cambodia, and Tacloban in the Philippines.

FSGT McKibbin’s communica-tion and liaison skills were put to the test coordinating the landing-craft arrival and departure times with the US, Japanese and Australian personnel.

He said this was a highly challeng-ing task given the frequent changes in the schedule due to changing weather conditions.

Commander Australian Contingent LTCOL John Cronin said FSGT McKibbin’s interaction and liaison with the crew of the JS Kunisaki was crucial to the information exchange, the coordi-nation of joint planning and the over-all success of the mission.

FSGT McKibbin said he was encouraged by the Air Force language manager to volunteer for the job,

Language is not a barrierAn Air Force linguist’s skills are put to the test during an international humanitarian exercise, Michael Brooke reports.

Defence Force School of

LanguagesCO Defence Force School of Languages (DFSL) CMDR David Hope said the DFSL was arguably the most diverse workplace environment in Defence.

Civilian staff at the school represent almost every Asia Pacific nation, as well as many Middle Eastern and European countries.

The four heads of wings are natives of Russia, Indonesia, Egypt and Iran.

The student body, which is on average about 400 personnel a year, is representative of all ranks and services.

“We must understand the people and the culture before committing forces to anywhere the ADF is required to operate,” CMDR Hope said.

“The diversity of ethnicities, cultures, gender, ranks and services all contribute to enable DFSL to produce effective linguists able to enhance capability by allowing Defence to better understand the people and the environment within which it operates.”

because it would greatly enhance his Japanese language skills.

“The deployment enabled me to learn more military terminologies, which was essential to ensure that noth-ing got lost in translation between us and the Japanese,” he said.

The timing of the deployment was perfect for FSGT McKibbin, who had just completed a 12-month Japanese language course in Canberra in 2013.

This course opened doors to other opportunities, including working as an interpreter for a Japanese Navy P-3 crew involved in the multinational search for the missing MH370 airliner.

The ADF has made Japanese a priority-one language in order to facili-tate closer cooperation between the two countries.

FSGT Troy McKibbin (left) translates a conversation between LCDR Yamasaki, the pilot of the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force hover-craft, and LTCOL John Cronin. The JMSDF hover-craft inserted 150 Australian and US military personnel on to the beach at Tacloban in the Philippines. Photo: Michael Brooke

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20 September 11, 2014RCEAIR FPersonnel

DCAF AVM Leo Davies will present this year’s OAA-ADF Oration on October 8.

Run by the Order of Australia Association – ACT Branch in partner-ship with the ADF, this year’s oration will be held in the ADF Theatrette at Russell Offices in Canberra.

Entitled ‘Planning Air Force’s Future – Does that mean Fifth Generation?’, AVM Leo Davies’s address will focus on the need for a modern approach to maximise

Australia’s air and joint responses in light of evolving capabilities.

The OAA-ADF Oration aims to further recognise the important contribution made by military mem-bers of the Order of Australia to Australian society by bringing togeth-er general and military recipients of the Order.

For more information on the association, visit www.theorderofaustralia.asn.au

Defence has started a four-year collaboration with the Australian Human Rights commission (AHRc) to further embed the cultural intent of Pathway to change across the organi-sation.

The collaboration team is made up of personnel from the AHRc and the Organisational Development Unit within Defence People Group.

Their goal is to support the shap-ing of Defence’s culture, systems and behaviours to improve capability and make Defence a workplace of choice.

The AHRc has significant experi-ence and understanding of Defence and the ADf and is internationally recognised for its expertise in human rights and anti-discrimination policy and practice.

A H R c S ex D i s c r i m i n a t i o n commissioner elizabeth Broderick led reviews into Defence culture with the reports Treatment of Women at ADfA and Treatment of Women in the ADf.

Her reports provided compelling arguments that for Defence to attract the best talent, reduce cost, enhance capability and be a high performing employer, the organisation had to address cultural and structural issues, be a more inclusive workforce, and better support female personnel.

A subsequent audit review of the Treatment of Women in the ADf, tabled in parliament in March, showed that Defence had made significant pro-gress in a number of areas to improve gender diversity and enhance capabil-ity.

This progress included establishing the Sexual Misconduct and Prevention Office (SeMPRO) and a confidential reporting system, reviewing how senior ADf leaders are selected and increas-ing flexible work arrangements.

“I urge the ADf to sustain the momentum for cultural reform and to fully realise the benefits of a proud, inclusive military where women and men flourish,” said Ms Broderick when the audit was released.

“This review’s four reports repre-sent one of the most comprehensive and detailed examinations of gender in any military in the world.

“So I am delighted that the AHRc will continue to support the ADf in embedding broad cultural reform in the organisation over the next four years.”

cDf AcM Mark Binskin said the commission’s expertise would allow the AHRc to act as an independent advisor on issues relevant to Defence’s cultural reform programs through a collaborative partnership with Defence.

“We must continue to learn from

Embedding change Moving forward on abuse outcomes

our past and work to regain the respect of many in the Australian community,” AcM Binskin said.

“This partnership means the AHRc will be able to provide independent, robust advice to help Defence address the remaining challenges, continue our cultural reform program and, ultimate-ly, improve our overall capability into the future.”

Ms Broderick said while the two reviews were for the purpose of for-mally reporting on conditions in Defence and making recommendations for change, the collaboration between

Defence and the AHRc would have a different focus.

“While we retain our independ-ence from Defence, the collaboration is a joint effort to build on the progress Defence has made in engendering a healthier culture,” Ms Broderick said.

DG cultural Reviews Response AIRcDRe Henrik ehlers said the AHRc reviews helped pave the way for the collaboration.

“The reviews were important in helping us understand where we were in the treatment of women, but the collaboration is broader and the col-

laboration team will actively work with the Services to deliver real and lasting change,” AIRcDRe ehlers said.

The collaboration between Defence and the AHRc will include visits to 10 or more Defence establishments each year, meetings with Defence personnel and reviewing policy and projects.

More information on how and when site visits will take place will be distributed through normal channels and on-site at each establishment as each visit is con-firmed.

Defence has worked hard to implement Pathway to change ini-tiatives over the past two years.

This includes: establishing residential sup-

port officers at ADfA; setting up internal mentoring

programs for civilian and mili-tary staff;

the establishment of the Sexual

Misconduct Prevention and Response Office (SeMPRO);

developing the ADf Alcohol Management Strategy; and

developing a social media policy.

For more information, visit http://intranet.defence.gov.au/people/Sites/PathwayToChange

REAL PROGRESSDefence and the Australian Human Rights Commission are collaborating to ensure long-term cultural change in Defence.Photo: CPL Janine Fabre

MORe than 190 senior Defence rep-resentatives have taken part in prepa-ration sessions to enable them to meet with people who suffered abuse in Defence in private conferences organ-ised by the Defence Abuse Response Taskforce.

The taskforce’s latest interim report, tabled in parliament on September 3, provides an overview of the significant progress that has been made in providing outcomes to people who suffered abuse in Defence.

Taskforce chair Len Roberts-Smith said since its establishment the taskforce’s focus had been on devel-oping programs to provide tailored, practical outcomes to individuals.

“The outcome in each case will depend on the personal circumstances of the complainant, but might be a reparation payment or the opportunity to meet with a senior Defence rep-resentative in a conference arranged under the world-first Defence Abuse Restorative engagement Program,” he said.

As at August 11, the taskforce had held 48 restorative engagement conferences and made more than 870 reparation payments, totalling in excess of $36 million.

As at that date, the taskforce had also arranged 917 counselling ses-sions under its national counselling program and referred 73 cases to state and territory police for assessment.

Mr Roberts-Smith said the task-force would continue to provide outcomes to complainants beyond november 30, when his term as chair concluded.

“I have advised the Defence Minister and Attorney-General that I am not able to accept a further exten-sion of my appointment as chair of the taskforce,” he said.

“However, I am absolutely confi-dent that the level of service provided to complainants by the highly skilled staff of the taskforce will not be affected by a change in leadership.”

Mr Roberts-Smith was originally appointed for a 12-month term from november 26, 2012, and has since accepted two extensions.

The seventh interim report is available for download on the taskforce website at www.defenceabusetaskforce.gov.au/reports/Pages/default.aspx

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21September 11, 2014RCEAIR F Health

Muscle your way into training

BUILDING muscle mass and maintaining fitness is as important for ADF person-nel as it is for professional

athletes. For most personnel, the main rea-

son for going to the gym is a desire to get our bodies into shape and increase muscle mass and strength.

PTI SGT Linden Bleije, of the ADF Physical Training School, said during the time he had been a PTI, most people attended the gym without a genuine training plan.

“I have observed a lot of personnel hitting the gym being passionate about being fit,” he said.

“But most of them don’t have a fit-ness plan tailored to their needs, their physique and job requirements.

“The fact remains that most people who go to the gym have not given much thought to a good training and healthy diet plan that suits their requirements.”

A good training program is not enough. There are other important points to consider when trying to gain muscle mass.

Food intake is just as important as exercise. Frequent and intense training sessions can limit opportunities for meals and snacks, while intense train-ing can curb appetites.

A combination of a well-designed training program, plus an energy-rich

Building mass is more than supplements and working out. CAPT Dominik Sander finds a tailored program is best.

PTIs will help you reach your fitness and muscle-mass goals. Photo: LS Jayson Tufrey

‘The fact remains that most people who go to the gym have not given much thought to a good training and healthy diet plan that suits their requirements.

– SGT Linden Bleije, PTI

diet with adequate protein, is essential.“It is important to increase the

frequency of meals and have healthy snacks,” SGT Bleije said.

“Eating frequently should be a main focus, even during busy days.

“You should aim to include more than the typical three main meals. Reduce the quantity for each meal. Healthy snacks and shakes are good supplements for your diet.”

Athletes attempting to increase muscle mass are particularly vulner-able to the enticing marketing of sup-plements that promote quick muscle build.

SGT Bleije said there were some people who placed too much faith in supplements.

“Effective marketing leads us to believe too much in supplements and my experience is that hardly any of these products work, compared to good training and a balanced diet. It

says to me that these people have not given much thought to a healthy diet plan that is an essential part of the training program,” he said.

“What is much more important is to set up a healthy diet regime and a training program tailored specifically to you.”

If muscle mass is a priority, a mus-cle-building phase should be incorpo-rated into the yearly training program, emphasising consistent allocation of resistance training sessions and limit-ing additional fitness/conditioning sessions.

“I encourage everyone in Defence to continue to keep up their fitness as it is an essential part of how well we are able to perform in our jobs,” SGT Bleije said.

“I strongly encourage those who have an interest in building muscle mass to visit their PTIs and work out a suitable training program.”

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Michael Brooke

SEVEN airmen played strongly for the Australian Services Rugby Union (ASRU) team against the Northern Territory Mosquitoes in Darwin.

The Mosquitoes beat the ASRU 33-20 at Rugby Park on August 23.

FLTLT Robbie Harlow, who played 5/8th, was team captain.

The other Air Force play-ers were SGT Luke Troy at prop, CPL Michael Wallace at centre, LAC Peatrie Birney at hooker, and reserves CPL Michael Mason, LAC Laurence Burdekin and LAC Jarred Playford.

“As far as Air Force representa-tion goes, this is the biggest in many years,” FLTLT Harlow said.

“It definitely bodes well for the

future of Air Force rugby and is a result of Air Force rugby becoming stronger and more competitive with their traditionally stronger Army and Navy counterparts.”

ASRU scored first, less than three minutes into the game, scoring under the posts.

At the break, ASRU trailed 21-10 but fought its way back to trail 28-20 with 10 minutes remaining, however, could not get across the line for another try.

FLTLT Harlow, who was praised for his strong leadership, said ASRU was strong in broken play and the Defence players were dangerous whenever they held on to the ball.

ASRU coach WO Tony Doherty said the Air Force players were dynamic in attack and defence.

“We did not win but everybody played strongly, which is all that matters at this point in time,” WO Doherty said.

He said ASRU dominated many phases of the match, but simple han-dling errors and silly penalties cost the team victory.

“The Mosquitoes capitalised on our momentary lack of discipline, kicking some easy penalty goals,” WO Doherty said.

“But the important thing was that our playing structure was quite strong.”

The match provided ASRU with excellent preparation for a test match against New Zealand to mark the Centenary of Anzac in 2015 and also the International Defence World Cup in Britain.

Michael Brooke

CPL Jeremy Harmon pushed himself to the limit to beat 10 other Defence members who competed in the Gold Coast half-ironman triathlon on August 24.

“This was my last race for the year, so I wanted to give it everything and see what my body had to offer,” he said.

What it had to offer was 128th place in a field of about 1500 participants who contested the 1.9km swim in the Currumbin Creek, 90km bike ride through the gold coast hinterland and 21km run along the foreshore around Currumbin beach.

Not only did that make him 21st in the 25-29 age-group category, it put him in front of seven Army members, two other Air Force members and a Navy member.

The top three ADF finishers were CPL Harmon, of RAAF Base Amberley, who clocked in at 3hr 11min 27sec, CAPT Paul Watson, of DMO Brisbane, at 3:17.35 and CPL Gareth Loftus, also of Amberley, at 3:21.19.

“I’m happy with the result and will definitely race this again next year,” CPL Harmon said.

CPL Brendon Wilkie, of Amberley, who finished in 4:22.37, and CPL Loftus have been training all year for the Busselton Ironman on December 7.

“The Gold Coast challenge was used to judge our preparations for the ironman,” CPL Loftus said.

Take it to the limit

CPL Jeremy Harmon pushes home his advantage on the 21km run along the foreshore around Currumbin beach.

Photo: MAJ Karina Jones

Air Force players step up for ASRU

ASRU player CPL Michael Mason runs the ball, above, and grabs the ball, right, against the Northern Territory Mosquitos.

Photos: CPL Max Bree

ADF Results CPL Jeremy Harmon 03:11.27 CAPT Paul Watson 03:17.35 CPL Gareth Loftus 03:21.19 MAJ Dave Thomson 03:24.29 MAJ Pete Howden 03:25.48 PTE Jason Comer 04:00.45 CPL Chris Goakes 04:05.26 WO1 Pete Lee 04:06.00 WO2 Gav Wickham 04:07.01 CPL Brendan Wilkie 04:22.37 CMDR Doug Griffiths swim only

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23September 11, 2014RCEAIR F Sp rt

Michael Brooke

FORMER junior international LAC Aaron Fyfe won back-to-back men’s open titles at the ADF interservice Squash Championships at RAAF Base Williamtown.

The championship drew the larg-est number of competitors in many years, with 66 players from all three services featured in the tournament from August 25-29.

Army won overall honours, but Air Force, with a team of 26, fin-ished second – with triumphs in the men’s open final, the doubles, the C-grade final and the C-plate final.

LAC Fyfe, of No. 3 Squadron at RAAF Base Williamtown, beat LT Elliott Geddes 3-0 to win the men’s open title for the second year in suc-cession.

LAC Fyfe said he was elated with

the victory and would be gunning for a hat-trick next year.

“It was really good to go back to back as champion, because I have done a lot practice recently,” LAC Fyfe said.

“I made my opponent do all the work on court today, selecting my strokes to make him chase the ball, which wore him down.”

LAC Fyfe is no stranger to squash, having represented Australia in the world junior men’s champion-ships in Switzerland in 2008.

LAC Fyfe also won the under-17 men’s title at the 2007 Australian championships.

“I hope the best is yet to come as far as ADF squash goes, because winning can be addictive,” he said.

Air Force also tasted success in the doubles through SGT Mel Boyd, who partnered Navy’s AB Lloyd

McKean, to beat OCDT Zac Evans and ACW Courtney Hartman, 3-1.

SGT Boyd, of 1 RTU at RAAF Base Wagga, said she had competed in the ADF squash championships since 1999, with her greatest success being winning the women’s open title in 2013.

“Today was my third doubles title, so I’m pretty excited about what I have achieved,” she said.

Air Force also enjoyed title success through SQNLDR Peter van Drie, FLTLT Ryan Sandri and FLGOFF Arun Thangaraju.

SQNLDR Peter van Drie beat CPL Tim Oxley 3-1 (43-28) to win the B-grade final, while FLTLT Sandri beat LAC Danny Penfold 3-0 (33-24) in the C-grade final, and FLGOFF Thangaraju defeated LAC Matt Dilkes 3-2 (48-40) to win the C-plate championship.

Interservice champion: ArmyInterservice runner-up: Air ForceMen’s open final: LAC Aaron Fyfe b LT Elliott Geddes 3-0 (33-16)Women’s open final: PTE Ayla Stevens b PO Pennie Douglas 3-0Doubles final: SGT Mel Boyd and AB Lloyd McKean b OCDT Zac Evans and ACW Courtney Hartman 3-1Veterans final: CPL Darren Wilcock b PO Pennie Douglas 3-2Masters final: SGT Josh Young b SGT Anthony Griffin 3-0A-grade final: CPL Darren Wilcock b SGT Josh Young 3-0 A-plate final: PTE Ayla Stevens b CMDR Craig Marcombe 3-2 (48-45)

B-grade final: SQNLDR Peter van Drie b CPL Tim Oxley 3-1 (43-28)B-plate final: PTE Tristan Smith b LS Reece Howen 3-1 (40-34)C-grade final: FLTLT Ryan Sandri b LAC Danny Penfold 3-0 (33-24)C-plate final: FLGOFF Arun Thangaraju b LAC Matt Dilkes 3-2 (48-40)D-grade final: PTE Owen Paterson b SMN David Conradi 3-2 (51-49)D-plate final: GNR Michael Embrey b Mary Lynch 3-2 (56-42)E-grade final: SMN Mitch McDonald b SGT Mel Boswell 3-0E-plate final: SPR Dain Ramsay b PTE Hanna Reeve 3-1

Squash pedigree a winner again

Championship results

LAC Aaron Fyfe (right) waits to return fire to his opponent, LT Elliot Geddes, during the men’s open final. Photo: CPL Darren Bisson

Michael Brooke

MOUNTAIN-biker CPL Sarah Booth went some way to putting the painful past to rest with a blister-ing 7km downhill race at the 2014 Crankworx Whistler Championships in Canada in August.

She was fifth in the Garbanzo event, which is regarded as one of the world’s toughest downhill races.

The race descends 1036m in altitude through three bioclimatic zones and shifting conditions.

CPL Booth, from No. 81 Wing at RAAF Base Williamtown, finished in 19min 31.50sec – three minutes behind the winner, and only 1:46min behind the bronze-medal recipient.

“I was really happy with my per-formance because I had trained very hard, even with a sprained ankle which I sustained a month before the event,” she said.

“I am a real adrenaline junkie, so speed is my friend.”

Three years ago – on the very same Whistler mountaintop – she had a falling out with that friend.

On July 21, 2011, she was competing against riders from the US, Canada, New Zealand and Australia in the Jeep Air race on the A-line track, she went over a jump mid-race and was bucked over her handlebars and into a tree.

Her injuries were terrible; 10 broken ribs, a punctured lung, a fractured lumbar vertebrae and split right shoulder blade.

She was airlifted to hospital in

Vancouver, where she underwent surgery and spent two weeks in the wards before flying home on a 15-hour commercial flight with her own doctor, nurse, oxygen mask and chest tube.

That was one of the things moti-vating her to go back this year.

She said she was pleased not to hit an immovable object this time.

But her body still took a ham-mering in the Garbanzo downhill.

Despite this, she said it was her favourite event.

“Some refer to it as a downhill enduro race, where no less than 100 per cent will do,” she said.

“A vertical marathon, the Garbanzo DH is a gruel-fest, a mag-net for masochists, a 1036m top-to-bottom toll-taking test of mountain biking supremacy.”

The Garbanzo course snakes through some of the most aggressive terrain of the Whistler Mountain Bike Park.

CPL Booth plans to go to New Zealand at the end of this month for hard-core training to prepare her for the national championships early next year.

“New Zealand has a huge variety of tracks that will take me out of my comfort zone, which is what I am really looking forward to the most,” she said.

“I never want to stop trying to improve myself as an athlete, a competitor and a promoter of the Air Force and its values and ethos.”

Downhill fast – and proud of it

CPL Sarah Booth admires the view from the Top of the World, the highest point overlooking the Whistler village.

SP RTSeptember 11, 2014

BACK TO BACKLAC Aaron Fyfe takes out the men’s open title at the ADF Interservice Squash Championships for the second year in a row

PAGE 23

Photo: CPL Darren Bisson

CPL Sarah Booth conquers one of the world’s toughest downhill mountain bike courses

– Page 23

RCEAIR F September 11, 2014 Exercise Pitch Black 1

TAKE-OFFMore than 100 aircraft and 2500 personnel from seven nations make Exercise Pitch

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RCEAIR FSeptember 11, 20142 Exercise Pitch Black RCEAIR F September 11, 2014 Exercise Pitch Black 3

Air Force has conducted Exercise Pitch Black as a major training activity for more than 20 years, traditionally using bases and train-

ing areas in the Northern Territory.The biennial exercise was held this

year from August 1-22 and involved par-ticipants from Australia, the US Air Force, the republic of Singapore Air Force, the royal Thai Air Force, the royal New Zealand Air Force and, for the first time, the United Arab Emirates Air Force and the French Air Force from New Caledonia.

Exercise Director GPCAPT Micka Gray said no one could predict when or where Defence would need to respond, so pilots and crews needed experience in a range of environments, including day and night flying, high- and low-altitude flying and bombing and gunnery practice.

“Exercise Pitch Black 14 involved par-ticipants conducting offensive and defen-sive counter air missions launching from rAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal. They also used the Delamere range Facility and Bradshaw Field Training Area,” GPCAPT Gray said.

“Pitch Black is Australia’s largest international air combat exercise and provides essential training for Air Force’s aircrew, controllers and support person-nel. it truly is an international exercise with more than 2500 participants from seven countries flying up to 110 aircraft.”

The focus of the exercise was large-force employment training with mission scenarios progressively becoming larger and more complex throughout the course of the exercise requiring mission com-manders to factor in a variety of air com-bat roles.

The Task Unit Headquarters (TUHQ) was the heart of the air combat exercise and its commander, GPCAPT robert Chipman, said for the crews involved it was a complex exercise across a training area of more than 86,400sq/nm.

“Large-force employment training is a very challenging skill to acquire,” GPCAPT Chipman said.

“We need to develop the expertise of our pilots and crews to be able to lead and coordinate large-force employment some years after graduating from their conver-sion training onto the fast jets.

“However, Exercise Pitch Black is equally important for our support agen-cies, whether it be air traffic control sup-porting the 1300 missions or our cooks who made over 85,000 meals.”

Another challenge experienced during the exercise was the large number of air-craft required to work together in a short period of time.

“Bringing all the elements together to achieve a strike on a target or to achieve control of the airspace for a period of 30 minutes and to be able to orchestrate the operations in a coherent way requires a high level of expertise and skill,” GPCAPT Chipman said.

The missions developed for Pitch Black were as realistic as possible.

Scenarios were created so when enemy forces (red air) launched from rAAF Base Tindal there were systems in place to simulate surface-to-air missiles targeting the friendly aircraft operating in the airspace.

GPCAPT Gray said training with other nations was critical so when the need arises we would be able to function effectively and efficiently in a coalition environment for humanitarian assistance or combat operations.

“Exercise Pitch Black was a great suc-cess with all the nations involved achiev-ing their goals,” he said.

Countries: 7 Aircraft: 110 Missions: 1301 Personnel: 2500 Airspace: 60,000sq/km Bases: 4 Meals: 85,774 Fuel: 1.85 million litres People at the open day: 13,000 School visits: 10 Weekly Facebook reach: 230,000 people Media cumulative audience: 20 million

Day and night, seven countries hone skills

Aircraft involved:CN-235, Mirage 2000-9, A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport, JAS-39 Gripen, F-15SG Eagle, F-16 Falcon, Gulfstream 550, KC-135 Stratotanker, F/A-18A Hornet, F/A-18F Super Hornet, C-130J Hercules, KA350 King Air, E-7A Wedgetail, KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport, B-52H Stratofortress and AP-3C Orion.

Countries involved:Australia, US, Singapore, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, French New Caledonia and New Zealand.

More than 2500 participants from seven countries flying up to 110 aircraft participated in Australia’s largest international air combat exercise, FLTLT Cath Friend reports.

A member of No. 1 Squadron prepares an F/A-18F Super Hornet for a mission

Photo: CPL David Said

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RCEAIR FSeptember 11, 20144 Exercise Pitch Black RCEAIR F September 11, 2014 Exercise Pitch Black 5

No. 4 Squadron has deployed its Combat Control Team (CCT) to Exercise Pitch Black for the third time, once again prov-

ing the importance of this Air Combat capability.

For the past six years, CCT has not only served in continuous combat oper-ations in Afghanistan under operation Slipper but supported numerous exer-cises with its unique and highly special-ised skill sets.

4SQN deployed one complete team to Pitch Black.

This included six Air Force CCT members, two US Air Force CCT members from the 320th Special Tactics Squadron, based at Kadena Air Base in Japan, and support staff including communications, logistics, geospatial intelligence, intelligence and medical personnel from No. 1 Combat Communication Squadron, No. 87 Squadron and Health Services Wing.

The primary objective for 4SQN was to exercise full mission profiles, which involved conducting detailed planning serials, integrating with air

mobility and strike assets and then suc-cessfully executing the mission.

Detachment Commander 4SQN FLTLT S said Pitch Black provided a unique opportunity for his team to exercise across a broad range of mis-sion sets including parachute insertion, airfield and drop zone survey and also close air support by day and night.

Yet this was not without challenges. “one of the most challenging mis-

sions at Pitch Black this year was the insertion into Delamere Range where the high winds in the afternoon mis-sions meant we were unable to conduct some of the planned jumps,” he said.

“Fortunately we were able to change to a morning mission timeframe before the onset of the winds and successfully parachute into the Delamere Range for the insertion of CCT assets.”

Pitch Black also enabled the combat controllers to further enhance their inte-gration with Air Mobility Group, No. 37 Squadron’s C130J crews in particu-lar, ensuring streamline insertions were accomplished.

SQNLDR Lindsay Paterson

REDUCiNG the impact of noise during Exercise Pitch Black, while balancing operational and training requirements, was a key considera-tion for participants.

Providing the Darwin community with up-to-date information on flying activities during the exercise took on many forms.

This included publishing flying times on the Air Force website and communicating with the public regu-larly through frequent media activi-ties and regular interaction with event organisers.

Exercise Director GPCAPT Micka Gray acknowledged the impact of the noise on the people of the Northern Territory, especially the community of Darwin.

He said there had been modifica-tions to the program over the years in response to community feedback.

“Air Force reduces the effects of noise from military aircraft opera-tions as much as possible,” GPCAPT Gray said.

“We can do this by limiting the speed of aircraft in populated areas, avoiding the use of after-burner when safe to do so, minimising flying over residential areas and other noise sensitive buildings such as hospitals and schools, climbing to altitude as quickly as possible when departing, and minimising flying late at night or early in the morning.

“Defence has an honest and open approach about the noise experienced by residents living near our bases and training areas, and we worked with the Darwin community to reduce noise impacts.”

Robust community engagement with regular contact with the people of Darwin and stakeholders of the Northern Territory was vital to guar-anteeing the success of Pitch Black as well as future operations at Darwin.

Air Force consulted with state and local government organisations, community organisations, such as the Royal Darwin Agricultural Show and Darwin and Katherine Turf Clubs, as well as Darwin Festival organis-ers during the exercise so they were aware of flying times to ensure the minimum disturbance to the public and local events.

To facilitate direct contact with the public, an information/noise complaint phone line began operating from July 22 in preparation for exer-cise familiarisation activities.

This was accessed by those wish-ing to find out the best vantage points and times of flying activities as well those registering concern about the noise.

The Pitch Black website and social media sites also provided a steady stream of information.

Facebook, Twitter and Google + were regularly updated with public information, reaching more than 164,000 people a week on Facebook alone during the exercise.

“While aircraft noise will never be eliminated, Defence pilots and crews operate the aircraft in ways that mini-mise aircraft noise,” GPCAPT Gray said.

“We thank the Darwin community for their continued support to opera-tions at RAAF Base Darwin.”

Keeping the noise down

Control team drops inNo. 4 Squadron’s Combat Control Team overcomes challenges to provide support, FLTLT Cath Friend reports.

A combat controller from 4SQN parachutes from a C-130J Hercules over the Delamere Range Facility in the Northern Territory; right, a combat controller prepares for a training mission. Photos: CPL David Gibbs

See the video of 4SQN’S insertion into Delamere Range at:

http://video.defence.gov.au/?mediaId=ba74203d-9b9a-4857-a34e-07389c0f95e7It’s all about learning

THE mission debriefing was a vital component to Exercise Pitch Black 2014.

Mission director SQNLDR Paul Simmons says the debriefing is all about learning.

“While this mission involves over 60 aircraft and is highly complex we are able to zoom in on individual aircraft, looking not only at what that aircraft and formation did but also what the pilot is seeing in the cockpit,” he says.

“What this allow us to do is drill down and try to achieve the best learning outcomes we can – not just

for formations, but for individual pilots.”

Exercise director GPCAPT Micka Gray says Pitch Black is an incredibly complex air-combat exercise.

He likens it to a high-speed three-dimensional game of chess, with numerous aircraft flying at very low levels and up to 50,000 feet.

“During the mission, we use a tracking system to monitor the aircraft in the fighting space,” GPCAPT Gray says.

“After flight, we construct that mission to find who shot who,

where that shot is valid and where the learning points are. When you fly complex missions like these it’s important to get the training value out for all the participants.

“So when we monitor the mission and reconstruct it at debrief it brings out those learning points so everyone can see what they did right, what they did not so well and how they can improve next time.”

To experience the mission debriefing, visit http://video.defence.gov.au/?mediaId=ed9573fd-481b-49b6-8161-0a459520423b

FLGOFF Emily Thorvaldsson is joined by international participants during a brief at the start of Exercise Pitch Black 2014. Photo: CPL David Said

An F/A-18A air-to-air refuelling during Exercise Pitch Black. Photo: LAC Brenton Kwaterski

RCEAIR FSeptember 11, 20146 Exercise Pitch Black RCEAIR F September 11, 2014 Exercise Pitch Black 7

FLGOFF Ben Howlett Pilot No. 38 Squadron “During Pitch Black the King Air 350 provided logistics support, ferrying up to eight personnel and 500lb of cargo between Darwin and Tindal or as required by the exercise,” he said.

“During Pitch Black we’re presented with a lot of different sorts of experi-ences – usually our role is flying from

point A to point B from our home base in Townsville.

“i’ve been with 38SQn for about two years now and this is probably one of the most challenging and fun things i’ve been able to do so far.”

For more on the King Air’s involvement dur-ing Pitch Black, visit http://video.defence.gov.au/?mediaId=1d7a000d-92bd-4339-95a2-65a6d30871d0

On the jobArmament technician CPL Kim Cooper, of No. 6 Squadron, works on the RAAF Base Darwin flightline. Photo: CPL David Said

Air refuelling operator WOFF Budge Newman oversees the air-to-air refuel of an F/A-18A Hornet. Photo: LAC Brenton Kwaterski

FLTLT Chad Myles, an E-7A Wedgetail air combat officer deployed to RAAF Base Tindal. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

Air intelligence analyst LAC Jackson Purtle, of No. 87 Squadron, on the RAAF Base Darwin flightline. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

Crew attendant LACW Kylie Gibson, of No. 33 Squadron, on the stairs of the Multi Role Tanker Transport at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

CPL Sarah Lacey talks with a spectator before a F/A-18F Super Hornet display in Darwin. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

CPL Sarah Lacey, Personnel capability specialist “The atmosphere at the base was busy,” she said.

“To see everyone working together to achieve the same goal was just orchestrated magic.”

LAC Simon Bennett Refueller No. 23 Squadron“WorKing with international military is always a highlight to me and it was also a privilege to represent the rAAF during Pitch Black,” he said.

“The atmosphere at the base was great. everyone knew why they were there and what was required of them. everyone was willing to help each other to get the job done.”

LAC Simon Bennett prepares to refuel a CN-235 aircraft from the French Air Force (New Caledonia). Photo: CPL David Gibbs

ACW Jessica Bright Avery Supplier No. 3 Squadron“i WAS deployed in a multi-role capacity, where i was primarily responsible for processing demands for aircraft spares, receipt and despatch of parts and assist-ing with the road load for 3SQn during the redeploy phase,” she said.

“Being my first major multinational exercise it was a really good opportunity to liaise with representatives from the various countries. i thought the interna-tional night was organised really well and allowed for all of the countries to interact in a fun and relaxing atmosphere.

“everyone worked really hard to com-plete taskings and i think the sections communicated very effectively through-out the exercise.”

“i would really love the opportunity to participate in another exercise Pitch Black.”

ACW Jessica Bright Avery keeps track of consignment details at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

Personnel from across Air Force worked together to ensure the success of Exercise Pitch Black 2014.

FLGOFF Lauren Gonano Joint battlefield airspace controller No. 452 Squadron“My role was to conduct approach radar control duties during exercise Pitch Black. This involved sequencing and separating mili-tary exercise aircraft as well as civil aircraft on arrival and departure,” she said.

“We received extensive simulator train-ing and pre-briefing prior to the exercise in order to meet the challenge of sequencing the exercise aircraft with local civil operators. Sequencing a high volume of aircraft with wide ranging performance characteristics was definitely a challenge but we felt highly pre-pared and really enjoyed the experience.”

“The atmosphere during an exercise like Pitch Black is very dynamic with a lot of inter-nal coordination between approach, tower and the exercise director. There’s a great team environment, which is essential for safely pro-cessing all aircraft within Darwin’s airspace.”

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FLTLT Gerard Markham Armament officer No. 1 Squadron one of the key goals of Pitch Black was to make sure the maintenance workforce could mobilise for such a large exercise.

“The armament-related trade is concerned with all aspects of the armament systems of the aircraft,” he said.

“That involves troubleshooting, maintenance and also weapon preparation and weapon load activities.

“When you’re deploying a maintenance force of about 110 personnel and nine aircraft, it is quite challenging. A lot of the challenges are based on the planning and making sure we have the right equip-ment up here.”

To see 1SQN armament engineers in action, visit http://video.defence.gov.au/?mediaId=1070241b-2ffa-4b94-be6d-f7e9201d33e5

FLTLT Gerard Markham, right, discusses maintenance tasking with AC Drew Crowley and LAC Nick Sudweek. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

Watch a video of air traffic control training during Pitch Black at: http://video.defence.gov.au/?mediaid=e2fc5eb9-2eb7-4d09-915b-14d8f655ebb2

Air intelligence analyst LAC Jackson Purtle, centre, briefs King Air pilots FLTLT James Denton, left, and FLGOFF Ben Howlett on threat locations on during transit to RAAF Base Tindal. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

Air combat officer FLGOFF Josef Cabak, of No. 114 Mobile Control and Reporting Unit, works in an operations cabin. Photo: CPL David Said

Air traffic controller FLGOFF Christian Pace observes flightline operations at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

RCEAIR FSeptember 11, 20148 Exercise Pitch Black RCEAIR F September 11, 2014 Exercise Pitch Black 9

HAVE you ever wondered how such a large exercise like Pitch Black could bring more than 2500 people from

seven nations together and make it a roaring success?

Task Unit Commander GPCAPT Robert Chipman was responsible for just that.

He was supported by the Task Unit Headquarters (TUHQ), also known as the heart or centre hub of control for this large air combat exercise.

GPCAPT Chipman said all of the missions were planned at the TUHQ and staff were able to watch the mis-sions in execution and manage the communications and scenarios.

“The TUHQ was integral to Pitch

Black and had three broad responsi-bilities,” he said.

“The first was to ensure the exer-cise was conducted safely, and that was the umpiring cell’s responsibil-ity.

“That function was performed by our most capable and experienced fighter pilots, who also helped with debriefing to make sure all relevant learning points were identified.

“The second role of the TUHQ was to provide all administrative and logistics support necessary so that the pilots, controllers and intel-ligence officers could get on with the business of improving their skills in combat, to maximise the benefits from this training opportunity.”

The third role was a governance

function, which looked after ele-ments such as community engage-ment, public affairs and VIP visits.

This was a significant undertak-ing for an activity as large and com-plex as Pitch Black and provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the capabilities and dedication of Air Force personnel.

GPCAPT Chipman said another objective of Pitch Black was learn-ing how to work with other nations.

“There were seven nations par-ticipating at PB14 and they all come with different skills and different experiences,” he said.

“One of the great benefits of Pitch Black was that we learned to work as a coherent team in the train-ing environment so we could work

effectively if we were ever required to do so in combat.

“English was the common lan-guage, however, it was challenging at times with the many accents.”

An exercise highlight for GPCAPT Chipman was to see the professionalism of personnel at the TUHQ.

“This year I saw an increase in the level of commitment and coop-eration from previous exercises, pro-ducing a professional and productive learning environment for exercise participants,” he said.

“We were not comparing the per-formance of each of the participants or platforms, we were assessing how effectively we came together as a team – so that we could effectively

work together if required in future combat operations.”

He said skilled and capable people who were comfortable in their own squadron or unit were immersed in a new environment dur-ing the exercise.

“They move from a four-ship for-mation lead to an eight-ship forma-tion lead and then they lead missions with up to 50 aircraft,” GPCAPT Chipman said.

“That’s complex and requires new skills and new expertise and they’re the lessons we delivered at Pitch Black.

“At the end of the exercise, we returned young men and women to their units better equipped to work within a coalition.”

EXERCISE Pitch Black is essential training for aircrew and controllers but it is also well supported by a whole range of personnel from a variety of professions.

Exercise director GPCAPT Micka Gray said the support elements in exercise Pitch Black were extremely important.

“The exercise wouldn’t work if we didn’t have everybody working together to support and enable the exercise,” he said.

“Teams come from all around Australia to support this exercise, from meteorology, security, legal and personnel capability officers – to name a few.”

The exercise planning started more than 12 months before at Headquarters Air Command to organise the movements of international participants.

However, GPCAPT Gray said RAAF Base Darwin’s No. 13 Squadron was well prepared to host exercises such as Pitch Black.

“13SQN has been hosting more and more exer-cises and deployments from Darwin so we supple-ment it with a range of people to fill their require-ments with personnel from all around Australia and Defence in general,” he said.

For the first time, Air Force brought together the full support of a Security Forces Squadron.

Force protection commander at Pitch Black SQNLDR John Cox said No. 2 Security Forces Squadron (2SECFOR) was responsible for secu-rity operations during the exercise at RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal, where more than 100 security personnel were employed.

“The team comprised of an integrated element of Air Force Security, Airfield Defence Guards, Air Force Police, RNZAF Force Protection (FP) and No. 87 Squadron ground intelligence personnel all working in teams to provide an airbase security effect 24/7 to protect the personnel and extensive assets on the ground during the entire exercise,” he said.

SQNLDR Cox said working with the RNZAF was a great experience for his team.

“Working alongside RNZAF FP personnel pro-vided an excellent opportunity for our two services to operate together in teams in all areas of security operations at RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal,” he said.

“Whether it was protecting our aircraft assets on the flightline with military working dog teams, providing airbase policing services or performing security and emergency response – we worked as one team.

“It has been a great opportunity to achieve force protection interoperability and gain some great learn-ing outcomes. Our SECFOR teams have gained some good mates among our New Zealand colleagues.”

CPL Rhys Kerr, of 2SECFOR, also enjoyed working alongside the personnel from New Zealand.

“It was very impressive when our RNZAF FP co-workers performed the Haka,” CPL Kerr said.

“Pitch Black was also the first time I had the opportunity to work under the newly formed fully integrated SECFOR construct with all elements in one location, which provided many force multipliers to produce the required security effect.”

SQNLDR Cox praised his team’s efforts during the exercise.

“I am extremely proud of my SECFOR team – how they have worked throughout the exercise and their commitment to their duties often performed on shift and at night,” he said.

“I believe we have had some good interactions with visiting forces and it’s been a great experience.”

NO. 13 Squadron cook AC Juan Acevedo shared what it was like in the kitchen during Pitch Black.

“Being a cook here at RAAF Base Darwin during this exercise has been quite an interesting experience,” he says.

“A lot of people have come through and [there’s been] a lot of aircraft action.

“Ordinarily, we get about two deliver-ies a week. Since this exercise began we’ve been getting deliveries every day – by the pallet load.

“[We’re] going through about 2200kg of meat, 200kg of bacon, over 600kg of potatoes – and by the end of this Pitch Black period we’re probably going to have served about 60,000 meals.”

To see the RAAF Base Darwin kitchen in action during Pitch Black, visit http://video.defence.gov.au/?mediaId=3843f76f-6e2d-4b88-848c-9d7662e11062

Task Unit Headquarters was at the heart of bringing the Pitch Black participants together, FLTLT Cath Friend reports.

Bringing it seamlessly together

LACW Hannah Graham refuels a KA350 King Air at RAAF Base Darwin.Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

2200kg of meat, 200kg of bacon, 600kg of potatoes

Working dog handler AC Brian Cuthbertson, of 2SECFOR, with the new G-Wagon at RAAF Base Tindal. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

LACW Colleen Hazeldene prepares lunch in the RAAF Base Darwin Airmen’s Mess. Photo: CPL David Said

Hot work on the ground

‘Teams come from all around Australia to support this exercise, from meteorology, security, legal and personnel capability officers – to name a few. – GPCAPT Micka Gray exercise director

LAC Jeffrey Gavidi with explosive ordnance detection dog Ronnie, a red kelpie, on the tarmac at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

No. 17 Squadron aviation fire fighters LAC Darren Harris (left) and LAC Giulio Puccetti test the mobile compressor for the Panther fire truck at RAAF Base Tindal. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

Behind every mission, task or takeoff are the extraordinary efforts of many helping aircrew and controllers win the battle in the air, FLTLT Cath Friend reports.

CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown talks with SQNLDR John Cox, left, and CO 13SQN WGCDR Wes Perrett at RAAF Base Darwin. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

RCEAIR FSeptember 11, 201410 Exercise Pitch Black RCEAIR F September 11, 2014 Exercise Pitch Black 11

DESPITE only being established for 18 months, the Darwin Women’s Integrated Networking Group (WINGS) is achiev-ing maturity and had a visit from CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown on August 15.

D a r w i n W I N G S c o o r d i n a t o r SQNLDR Melanie Free said having AIRMSHL Brown as the group’s first male speaker was significant.

“It is good to include men in the program to help champion what we are doing,” she said.

“Having CAF attend also shows sen-ior leadership commitment. The COs have been very supportive, and we now have about 14 women regularly attend-ing each month.”

SQNLDR Free said WINGS didn’t only benefit women.

“WINGS is about helping everyone to be the best they can be,” SQNLDR Free said.

“It bolsters confidence seeing people who aren’t afraid to have these conversa-tions and discuss bias in the organisation and in ourselves.”

AIRMSHL Brown said WINGS was important in supporting women in the workplace, especially those in non-tra-ditional employment areas where their daily work doesn’t allow them to interact with female leaders and mentors.

“The Air Force values the participa-tion of all its women and is extremely proud of their contributions,” he said. “We must continue to provide an envi-ronment where all men and women can contribute equally to capability.”

The event was the first WINGS meet-ing for ACW Elenoa Baikinuku, of No. 13 Squadron, who said she was keen to return.

“I didn’t know what WINGS was about,” she said.

“I’d come back. I’m interested to know what’s happening in Defence for women.”

WINGS Darwin meets monthly and new members are welcome.

For more information, contact SQNLDR Melanie Free at melanie.free@defence.gov.au

FLTLT Peter Bounty

IN A first for the home of Red Air, RAAF Base Tindal played host to its own interna-tional night during Pitch Black.

International night has long been a feature for Darwin-based participants with person-nel from all ranks and all of the participating nations coming together to share experiences and strengthen ties in a relaxed social setting.

Tindal’s international night was launched by CO No. 17 Squadron and Senior ADF Officer WGCDR Mark Larter and was fol-lowed by a welcome to country ceremony performed by local indigenous elders.

“The Aboriginal welcoming ceremony exposed our domestic and international visi-tors to the ancient culture of the traditional owners of this land,” WGCDR Larter said.

“It was a great privilege to have indig-enous members of the Katherine community share this experience with us all, and I think it was very beneficial to our visiting military personnel to be immersed in a ritual quintes-sentially unique to Australia.

“It was an opportunity for all military personnel involved in Pitch Black, regardless of rank or nationality, to come together in a friendly and respectful environment to enjoy a night of entertainment and relaxation; amid the busy exercise schedule.”

During the exercise the base swelled from around 600 personnel to nearly 1100, includ-ing a detachment from the USAF’s 121st Fighter Squadron, flying the F-16 and the French Air Force (New Caledonia), operating the CN-235.

The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has been participating in Pitch Black since 1990, says RSAF exercise director Senior LTCOL Linus Tan.

“This helps to promote mutual understanding and enhances interop-erability,” he says.

“More importantly, it helps to strengthen the defence ties with the participating nations.

“I always look forward to coming to Darwin. The people are really friendly and the fish and chips are really great.

“That’s something we look forward to.”

Pilot MAJ Lee Mei Yi says she’s liv-ing a dream flying an F-16.

“I think it’s what little boys and little girls dream about,” she says.

“It’s fast, it’s capable, it’s a very powerful machine.”

To see more about the Republic of Singapore Air Force at Pitch Black, visit http://video.defence.gov.au/?mediaId=15032bc2-9f28-4831-ab0f-63c8e6182613

WINGS welcomes CAF as first male speaker

International flairInteroperability and Darwin’s fish‘n’chips

The exercise director for the Republic of Singapore Air Force, Senior LTCOL Linus Tan, speaks to participants. Photo: CPL David Said

WGCDR Mark Larter and local indigenous elders before a traditional welcome ceremony at RAAF Base Tindal. Photo: CPL Terry Hartin

Republic of Singapore Air Force aircraft technician ME1 Kaarthigan inspects an F-16 nose. Photo: CPL Glen McCarthy

CAF AIRMSHL Geoff Brown with the Darwin Women’s Integrated Networking Group during Exercise Pitch Black. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

A USAF F-16 Falcon.Photo: CPL David Gibbs

A Royal Thai Air Force JAS 39 Gripen.Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

A United Arab Emirates Air Force Mirage 2000-9.Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

A French Air Force (New Caledonia) CN-235 transport.Photo: CPL David Gibbs

A Republic of Singapore Air Force Gulfstream G550. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

A Republic of Singapore Air Force F-15SG Eagle.Photo: CPL Craig Barrett An RAAF F/A-18F Super

Hornet taxis past a United Arab Emirates Air Force A330 on return to lines after a sortie. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

Crew Chief Staff SGT Joanne Tan from the Republic of Singapore Air Force keeps a close eye on flightline proceedings.Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

RCEAIR FSeptember 11, 201412 Exercise Pitch Black

An air-to-air formation with a Royal Thai Air Force JAS-39D Gripen, United Arab Emirates Air Force Mirage 2000-9, US Air Force F-16, Republic of Singapore Air Force F-15, KC-135 and F-16, and RAAF FA-18F Super Hornet and F/A-18A Hornet. Photo: CPL David Gibbs