// No. 3 Squadron

The squadron is one of the Force Elements under the command of the Air Component Commander JFHQ. Since January 2002 the Utility Flight (Iroquois) and the Training Flight(Sioux) have been based at RNZAF Base Ohakea, near Palmerston North. The Naval Support Flight (SH-2G Seasprite), which had previously been a part of 3 Squadron, was established as a separate unit (No 6 Squadron) in October 2005. No 6 Squadron remains at RNZAF Base Whenuapai, in Auckland.

No 3 Squadron has total personnel strength of approximately 135, and operates the following aircraft:

• 14 UH-1H Iroquois
• 5 Bell-47 Sioux

To meet NZDF Rotary Wing Transport Force Element requirements, the Squadron provides:

• Operational support and training for the NZ Army, specifically in tactical air transport, special operations and aeromedical evacuation. 
• Helicopter conversion (Sioux) and operational conversion (Iroquois) training for pilots and helicopter crewmen.
• Search and rescue, medical evacuation, NZ Police support, and assistance to other Government agencies
• VIP transport

The Squadron is annually allocated approximately 5,000 flying hours to achieve the stated tasks.  Squadron History

Related Link: 3 Squadron Association.