// No. 6 Squadron

CO No. 6 Squadron has responsibility and command authority for naval aviation.CO No. 6 Squadron reports to the Air Component Commander (ACC) through Officer Commanding 485 Wing (OC485WG).

No. 6 Squadron remains under full command of Chief of the Air Force.Operational command (OPCOM) will be exercised through ACC and OC485WG for shore-based activities.When ships' flights are required to embark, operational command will be assigned by ACC to the Maritime Component Commander (MCC), who will in turn assign operational control (OPCON) to the ship's CO.

The squadron has a total personnel strength of approximately 63 and operates 5 SH-2G(NZ) Seasprite helicopters.

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

• operational tasks and training for the RNZN, including
  • surface warfare missions and surveillance operations
  • under water warfare
  • helicopter delivery services/logistics
  • day and night search and rescue
  • medical evacuation
• helicopter operational conversion (Seasprite) training for pilots, observers and helicopter crewmen.
• assistance to other Government agencies
• medical evacuation

The Kaman SH-2G (NZ) Seasprite helicopters presently operate from the ANZAC Class Frigates HMNZS TE MANA and TE KAHA, embarked with aircrew from the RNZN and maintainers from the RNZAF. By 2007 they will also operate off the two new Offshore Patrol Vessels and the Multi Role Vessel

The Squadron is annually allocated approximately 1,550 flying hours to achieve the stated tasks.  Squadron History