Expeditionary Support Squadron

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As the environment of the Air Force becomes increasingly dynamic, the need for focused and well-managed squadron’s becomes similarly pressing.

The Expeditionary Support Squadron (ESS) is an excellent example of a unit that works quietly and efficiently in support of wider operational squadrons.

In 2000, Project Refocus recognised the need for a RNZAF unit to provide support to operations without the risk of relying on external agencies.

This process became the genesis for the ESS - formed earlier this year out of the Operational Support Squadron (OSS) – a squadron that provides expeditionary support to static or deployed air operations.

Although as a whole the ESS is not intended to be deployable its individual elements retain the ability. The squadron is both geographically and structurally diverse and its outputs provide support throughout New Zealand as well as service in operational theatres around the globe.

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The Squadron has four main functions, which are briefly described below:

1. Air Movements

Air Movements provide Airfield terminal services in support of military air operations.

This includes managing passengers and freight handling; the provision of Airfield liaison officers, Antarctic support and air load teams (ALTs). From August to February each year the Christchurch ALT is dedicated to Op Antarctica. Other Air Movements units are located at Auckland, Ohakea and Wellington and although not under ESS command, Woodbourne maintains close links to the ESS.

2. Air communication and information systems in support of military air operations (AIRCIS)

Air Communications and Information Systems (AIRCIS) are responsible for the management and deployment of all RNZAF deployable Communication and Information Systems (CIS) equipment, personnel and associated support. AIRCIS includes central communications, equipment system and maintenance and the management of NZDF deployable small satellite systems.

3. Air Security in support of air operations

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Although Air Security are part of the wider RNZAF organisation on a day-to-day basis, they come under the Expeditionary Support Squadron’s banner during operational activities. Air Security is responsible for security personnel and resources in support of NZDF activities worldwide. Their functions can include: ground defence; drill and ceremonial; base security; investigations; air transport security; core military skills training; dog teams and pre deployment training.

4. Deployable bulk fuel

During operational activities deployable bulk fuel (DBF) has the ability to provide aviation fuel for military aircraft on a continuous 24 hour basis. Other functions include the ability to provide daily fuel quality checks (FQC), provision of lab services to ensure fuel meets industry standards, fire fighting support, open and closed line refuelling capabilities and the availability of a hot refuelling capacity.

Due to the diversity of the squadron the four key outputs are not meant to necessarily work together in neat coordination as each output has a separate skill-sets and tasks that don’t necessarily overlap. However, this can come together during operational activities as seen during Exercise Skytrain. Here the ESS collectively set and uplifted camp in Napier, prior to, and at the conclusion of 40 Squadron’s flying activities.

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Looking forward, two further functions are adding value to the ESS. The two newest outputs are known as Operational Logistics Support and Health Services Support and are briefly explained below:

Operational Logistics Support

This relatively new support arm sets out management processes and planning, minimum operating requirements (MOR), increases operational readiness and standardises RNZAF expeditionary pack-up.

Health Services Support

Manage and provide advice on appropriate RNZAF medical personnel to deploy; set up and manage the deployment of medical equipment and facilitate medical advice between deploying units and the ESS.

In a series of upcoming issues, Air Force News will take a closer look at the Squadron’s components – their missions, operating methods, leadership and structure - to give insight into an organisation that is a pivotal cog in operational activities.