Commanders Reports 2007

AIRCDRE Peter Stockwell, Air Component Commander

Over the past 12 months the Air Component Command has continued to deliver the RNZAF’s operational outputs around the globe. Although the operational tempo has not been as high as in recent years, the overall work tempo has certainly been high as units continued to prepare for the introduction of new and upgraded aircraft while managing ongoing operational and training activities. The highlights have included:

• Deployment of Task Group MANU comprising two Iroquois and 32 personnel to Timor Leste in May to support the Australian-led Combined Task Force operation;
• Two successful TEAL operations in support of Task Group CRIB personnel changeovers in Afghanistan;
• The establishment of the Integrated Mission Support Squadron (IMSS) that will become an essential enabling unit for the support of our new systems;
• Significant improvements in our deployed CIS capabilities;
• Successful completion of a comprehensive exercise schedule for all Force Elements to ensure the maintenance of DLOC;
• The growth of the RNZAF’s safety and health organisation under the new title of Directorate of Air Force Safety and Health (DASH);
• Introduction of the SH2G NVG capability and development of the aviation capability for HMNZS Canterbury.

These are just a few of the many and varied activities that have been undertaken during what has been yet another very busy year. What continues to amaze and impress me about what we achieve in the Air Force is the drive, determination, and positive attitude displayed throughout the RNZAF in making things happen. I must acknowledge and thank the outstanding contribution that everyone in the RNZAF has made in ensuring that the ‘sharp end’ is kept ‘sharp’.

In 2008 we will see the two modified B757s and first upgraded C130 returned to service, and the first upgraded P3K2 work through its test and evaluation schedule. It promises to be an exciting and challenging year ahead. To get ready for this, I urge as many of you as possible to enjoy a good Christmas break. But as you do, spare a thought for those personnel serving overseas who can’t be with loved ones. And on your return, be prepared to ‘Step Up’ to the challenges of the new year.

WGCDR Carol Abraham, CO Ground Training Wing

In many respects 2007 has been a year of ever-shifting goalposts for Ground Training Wing. CAF is determined to grow the Air Force and any shortfall in the ambitious recruiting targets moves to the next course. GTW has seen the fruits of all our recruiting efforts in steadily bigger intakes; keeping staff on the run and DCM running even faster to provide the staff needed to train the Air Force’s future workforce. Efforts to adapt to Generation ‘Y’ trainees have seen many more trainees stick with their initial training (less voluntary RFT) and less wastage due injuries.

In the trade training squadrons there’s been a concerted effort to understand and connect with so-called Gen Y. Thanks to CAF and ACAFCAP support via CP Disc funding, the Training Aids Review Project is now well into implementation. Acquisition of classroom systems trainers and 21st century media is underway, including animated models, electronic posters and new DVDs (goodbye black and white films!). In parallel a quiet revolution is happening in the classroom, with staff keen to make greater use of IT tools. In the Admin, Supply and Tech Admin schools change is constant as they strive to keep up with new NZDF applications. Training methods are changing – rote learning turns students off and is not very effective long term. ‘Guided discovery’ of systems and practical testing of processes is the way of the future. CIS is flat out planning to implement the new NZDF IT Academy (CISCO training) in 2008. The Armourers have seen their biggest courses in years and have successfully created local Inspector and Examiner of Explosives courses to replace only partially-relevant Australian courses.

In GTW there is an increasing emphasis on treating trainees as individuals rather than widgets on a production line to be discarded if not perfect. Pass rates are up and greater use of focussed intervention such as re-phases, OJE and recourse are proving successful. Some even top their courses on return. In 2008 we plan to secure funding for the next stage of TARP (aircraft and engines) and continue the focus on maximising trainee success.

WGCDR Logan Cudby CO, No. 5 Squadron

No.5 Squadron wishes you all a very Merry Xmas and a safe and enjoyable holiday. This year has seen No.5 Squadron flying in both the Arctic and Antarctic Circles, continue preparation for the upgraded P3 and keeping up our local assistance to civil agencies. Overseas exercises were flown in South Korea, Scotland, Malaysia, Japan and four in Australia. Highlights included: a visit to the Korean DMZ, the first Arctic routing of a P3K from Alaska to Scotland; partaking in the Passchendaele commemoration ceremony in Belgium – a unique chance for our airmen to pay their respects to those who fought in WWI; and exercising with the South Korean and Japanese Navies.

Closer to home the Squadron has continued to be busy providing support to Customs, Fisheries and Foreign Affairs through 47 EEZ and border patrols, 13 Norpats through the South Pacific and eight Search and Rescue call outs. In January, SQNLDR Nielsen and his crew completed the Antarctic Operating trials. The crew were fortunate to meet with Sir Edmund Hillary (wartime No.5 Squadron Navigator and No.5 Squadron patron) and WGCDR Cranfield (rtd) who regaled them with stories of their adventures during the 1957 trans-Antarctic Expedition.

Throughout the year No.5 Squadron has continued to hone our military skills with the RNZN Frigates and introduce overland cooperation with the NZ Army. The P3K2 acceptance testing was unfortunately delayed to next year but the deploying aircrew and maintenance team have taken the delay with characteristic humour. The Sqn consecrated its new Squadron Standard in October. Well done to W/O Norman for his massive personal effort in organising the parade. Special congratulations go to SGTs Mike O’Dwyer and Jane Gomez for earning CAF Commendations this year for their work on No.5 Squadron.

Finally a big thank you to all the people and the units that get us airborne each day – we don’t go very far without you. Looking forward to 2008 – bring on the P3K2!

Keitou Kalawaca Na Wasaliwa
We Span the Oceans.

GPCAPT Greg Elliot Senior Commander, Woodbourne Training Group

2007 has seen a wind shift for RNZAF training as we look to embrace technologies that will improve student success and support new RNZAF capabilities. Training Group is working closely with Air Staff Personnel Directorate and Trade Sponsors to ensure the overall goal of ‘right people, right quantity, right place, right time, right training’ (R4+1). A wider transformation recognises the benefits of simulation, enhanced visual displays and 3D graphics, wireless technologies, computer based training, and learning management systems. These appeal directly to the incoming generation and should increase learning rates. The RNZAF Strategic Plan ‘Project 90’ aims to improve training quality, quantity and timeliness. The 90 percent pass rate is not a target in itself, but rather an indicator. The real goal is delivering R4+1 to support operations. Nevertheless, this year GTW achieved an average pass rate overall of 90.2 percent. Lifting pilot training output above the global benchmark of 60 percent remains a significant challenge. So far it has been streamlined to get courses back on time and enhance the learning rate. Projects are underway for acquisition of a Kingair replacement in 2009, to include simulation and glass cockpit training, and to acquire a Flying Information Management system for FTW, drawing on RAAF experience. Project TARP was approved and $650K set aside to update GTW technical trade training aids. The training technology team created a technology expo for WOCON and took this to Bases as a Roadshow.

External relationships are strong. Training Group has improved Contract Management with Aeromotive for Airtrainers and Kingairs. A new Air Warfare Officer course commences in Australia next year. A MAROPS review highlighted opportunities for improving Flying Training courseware and PTS has been selected as an initial ‘pilot’ project. NMIT continues to operate effectively alongside RNZAF training in GTW.

Junior Officer training has been redesigned, with new IOTC and Intermediary modules to be trialled in 2008. CRTS has fully implemented revised NCO training and feedback has been extremely positive. NZIM now provide our SNCOs well deserved civilian recognition and MOUs with other Industry Training Organisations (ITOs) will further benchmark RNZAF aeronautical training. As part of the Defence Transformation Programme, TGHQ has looked at how to decentralise training support services to the training providers. In the longer term, TGHQ could be aligned for a more joint effect. All in all, it has been a busy year for the Group as we position RNZAF training for the future.

CDR J.S. Haggitt CO, No. 6 Squadron

In many respects, the past twelve months have been business as usual for No. 6 Squadron. At the frontline the Frigate Flights have deployed on a number of occasions including two 6 month deployments to such exotic ports of call as: Shanghai and Zhangjiang in China; Port Blair in India; Kure, Okinawa and Sassebo in Japan; the Southern Ocean; and the usual haunts of SE Asia and Australia. The close knit Flights have faced remarkably interesting and challenging maintenance and operating tasks, not to mention the pleasures or otherwise of maritime traditions such as a good run ashore or crossing the line. All local and deployed operations have been magnificently supported by the greater RNZAF, notably the Auckland Skin Bay, the Sprite cells at LMTC and ATSU, MSW, and increasingly IMSS. Your support has kept us in business.

In other respects the year has seen considerable change and upped-tempo. The growth of aircrew numbers to provide three embarked Seasprite Flights is significant and the arrival of Canterbury has seen the adaptation of existing procedures to a new and exciting capability for NZDF. The impact of three Flights for the fleet has seen increased pressure on maintenance personnel at home but despite this, NZ3605 flew again for the first time in over three years after a difficult rebuild. Significant progress has been made in NVG capability with all Squadron aircrew now qualified in the black art. With the completion of Te Kaha’s deployment utilising NVG, the capability is now proven at sea which has afforded a significant step up in safety of embarked night ops as well as an enhancement of all existing night offensive capabilities.

Next year we will need to keep our eye on the long game as well as meeting the immediate demands of the Frigates and Protector Vessels. It will be another year of change for the Squadron, but then, that’s business as usual.

SQNLDR M.J. Hill, Acting CO, No.40 Squadron

With 2007 drawing to a close, 40 Squadron can reflect on what has once again been a busy and challenging year, but one that contained some significant milestones along the way, including the handing over of the CO reins from WGCDR Tony Davies to WGCDR Kevin McEvoy in late January.

The pace of what was to follow was set early on in the year, with the deployment of Exercise Skytrain to Napier on 15 January. An extended period of good weather and aircraft serviceability saw the completion of one of the more ambitious and successful Skytrains for some time.

It was then into the Squadron’s core business of supporting the wider NZDF requirements. In terms of Operations this has included Ops Rata, Manu, Gyro, two Crib rotations, and more recently Antarctica.

A significant breakdown at McMurdo (during the first RNZAF flight of the season) resulted in the C-130 remaining on the ice for six nights while maintenance action occurred, including a prop change under trying environmental conditions with temperatures approaching -40ºC. That the aircraft was able to return to NZ in a relatively short timeframe highlighted the magnificent efforts of the team involved in both the rectification and recovery. Non-operational support to other units/organisations has included Exercises Longlook, Tropic Wing, Bersama Pardu, Kiwi Walk along with the MFAT and CSC tours to name but a few, and participation in our own Directed Level Of Capability (DLOC) enablers of Tacex, AATTC, Maple Flag and JRTC.

Project milestones this year have included the induction of both B757s into the cargo upgrade, as well as the induction of the second C-130 into the LEP. Aircrew and maintenance personnel have been posted into key T&E positions and it is anticipated that they will move to their respective project locations shortly after Christmas to enable aircraft delivery back to NZ during 2008.

Thanks to all units that have played a part in supporting No.40 Squadron throughout the year. Once again though, our biggest acknowledgement must go to families and friends for their ongoing support, understanding and tolerance. Have a safe Christmas, I look forward to seeing you all again in the 2008.

WGCDR A.F.R. Millsom, CO, Expeditionary Support Squadron

2007 saw ESS personnel tasked world-wide in support of the Force Elements and RNZAF activities both at home and overseas, as well as a small stand-alone contribution to Solomons Islands relief efforts (at Easter). The latter highlighted the versatility of our teams with some people getting 48-hours notice and some being tasked at under 90-minutes notice as the requirements changed! Although unusual, it demonstrated the preparedness and willingness of our people to serve whenever and wherever, and the flexibility of our families for so graciously accepting our collected and often unscheduled absences.

Ex Skytrain kicked the year off with Expeditionary Support Squadron (ESS) establishing and running a 250-person camp on Napier airport in support of No.40 Squadron and a French aircraft. The benefits of ESS running this camp were obvious to the extent that No.40 Squadron completed their exercise a day earlier than planned, demonstrating that the Squadron is truly an expeditionary air force enabler. However, just as the ESS team support the Force Elements, we in turn rely on Base support from a wide variety of other units and agencies – thanks team.

Next year sees new challenges. In addition to the on-going commitment to NZDF operations world-wide there is also an increasingly challenging exercise programme, introduction of the B757 Combi, the planned consolidation of a number of sections in Auckland and the continued redistribution of vehicles within the Squadron, to name but a few activities.

At a time when most of us will take a well earned break with our families and friends, we cannot lose sight of the fact that some of our number will continue to operate over the break on overseas operations, Antarctica support, communications shifts etc. Whether on or off duty, on behalf of ESS may you all have a safe and enjoyable break!

GPCAPT P.M. Port *, OC 485 Wing, Senior Commander Auckland

Casting my mind back over the past 12 months, two things struck me particularly; that the year has sped past with frightening haste, and that we have all achieved so much.

Organisationally, 2007 has had a huge impact on the units of No. 485 Wing as we have focussed on the future and introducing new capabilities. New units have sprung up – the small Operational Software Maintenance Unit is now a growing Integrated Mission Support Squadron, with a new role of providing mission support to all force elements and their updated capabilities. Also, our increased focus on Safety and Health has leapt ahead with the standing up of the Directorate of Air Force Safety and Health (DASH – with a silent ‘F’), accompanied by an impressive establishment increase.

The Force Elements have continued their outstanding work in all corners of the world, and many of our Old Boys and Old Girls have rubbed shoulders again with the Bases and their former units. I was honoured to be involved with two enjoyable reunions of No. 485 Squadron and the RNZAF Marine Section.

We have also been active ceremonially. Two parades which stand out in my mind are the Queen’s Birthday Parade and the No. 5 Squadron Standard changeover parade – both occasions were outstanding examples of professionalism, pride, teamwork, traditions and discipline – and certainly left me with a lump in my throat.

The Base has hosted many VIP visits by Chiefs of Air Forces, the Strategic Leadership Council and the Open Day. At each of these high profile events the senior guests remarked on the extremely high calibre of our people; your confidence, enthusiasm, professionalism, and your ability and willingness to engage openly, intelligently and articulately.

So, another busy year ends with a hiss and a roar, and some sadness for me as I leave this command after what seems but a fleeting moment. It has been wonderful to be back in RNZAF Base Auckland, to renew old acquaintances and smell once again the gentle whiff of Avtur; to be again part of the orderly bustle and excitement that are the marks of professionals carrying out the multitude of tasks that enable us to produce the goods. But alas, all good things must come to an end and we start a new chapter in our lives with a move to Canberra in the New Year. Thank you all for your support and I wish you all the best for a happy Christmas with family and friends and a safe and prosperous New Year.

* GPCAPT Port is due to be promoted to the rank of AIRCDRE in the new year and will become our new Defence Attache in Canberra, Australia.

GPCAPT Andy Woods, Commander Logistics Group

2007 has once again been a very busy year for Logistics Group. It has seen us work through a period of consolidation after the Fleet Management Review which was implemented in mid 2006 where Material Support Wing and Maintenance Wing were formed. For the first time we now have an organisation where one individual is responsible for the entire supply chain (COMSW), and another individual responsible for configuration and engineering change management (DAC).

Benefits of theses changes are now being realised. Supply Chain Management and Fleet Planning are now platform based and closely aligned within Material Support Wing, enabling them to focus on the supply chain, which is their primary business.

Other areas of MSW have been equally as busy with the LSS units, including MT, providing the support services to the Bases at Auckland, Ohakea and Woodbourne. The Aeronautical Procurement unit based in Auckland (and incorporating the Consolidated Purchasing Flight (CPF)) have been involved in a number of strategic level contracts, including the re-negotiation of a major new contract with SAFE Air NZ Ltd, designed to provide ongoing support to the RNZAF via external vendors. In addition, CPF have been working through the transition of this part of the business to the JLSO, which will be fully implemented by the end of the year.

DAC has also been exceptionally busy throughout the year maintaining configuration of all of our platforms, and continuing to develop and implement modifications to improve operational effectiveness and availability of the fleet. Maintenance Wing have once again provided engineering support and component repair in support of the FEGs while the Air SAP Support Unit (ASSU) has performed sterling work in improving the utility and effectiveness of SAP in RNZAF use. While Maintenance Wing, Material Support Wing and the Directorate of Aeronautical Configuration have been taking care of the fleet in being, the Directorate of Logistics Capability (DLC) and Directorate of Aeronautical Engineering (DAE) have been working hard on introducing and certifying tomorrow’s fleet. We are looking in good shape to welcome the modified B757, upgraded P-3K2 and C-130H aircraft back into service and are continuing preparations for the NH-90 Medium Utility Helicopter and recently announced AW109 Training and Light Utility Helicopter.

Trade and Branch wise, the Directorate of Logistics Policy has instigated trade reviews of the Safety and Surface, and Ground Support Equipment Technician trades as well as initiating a review of Engineer Officer Technology training.

Team Logistics can be proud of what has been achieved in 2007. It has been a period of significant change and activity and I personally thank you for your support and hard work throughout the year. What you do every day does make a difference, and I don’t believe I could find a better bunch of people to work with: professional, committed, pragmatic, and always with a sense of humour!

Now is the time to be with family and friends, to relax, reflect on the year that has been and recharge the batteries for the year to come. There are plenty of challenges ahead for us, and I look forward to working with you in 2008 to turn those challenges into opportunities. I wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

WGCDR Ian MacPherson, CO No.3 Squadron

I said in 2006 that No.3 Squadron had been ‘consolidating’ after the many years of deployments. Fortunately that consolidation was complete early this year because by February we were heavily into planning for a return to Dili as part of Operation Koru. The deployment, named Task Group Manu, stepped off shore in late April and is now well established supporting in-theatre operations. Rotation three recently deployed and rotation four is planned to deploy in January 2008.

Back at home the workload has been busy with continued support to the NZ Army, SAS, NZ Police, DOC, and with notable contributions to the Far North floods and Search and Rescues in the Kaimanawa Forest, Arthurs Pass, Motueka and Lake Coleridge.

The maintenance experience levels have increased slightly, and on the aircrew side the total crew numbers are increasing from 12 a year ago to 14 now; just three below the establishment of 17 crews. The serviceability overall of both the Sioux and Iroquois has been impressive, often achieving four Sioux and nine to ten Iroquois on the line - all due to the sterling efforts of our maintenance team here in Ohakea and in Dili.

Task Group Manu threw a sizable spanner in the works and forced some reprioritisation of local exercises. No.3 Squadron ran an abbreviated Exercise Blackbird, but had to cancel Exercise Pekapeka completely.

On the positive side Tropic Townsville filled many gaps and marked a new era of cooperation with Australian Army Aviation, and Exercise Steel Talon continues in a similar shape as last year. The fact that No.3 Squadron sustained TG Manu, Tropic Townsville, local training, and limited tasking at home is a huge tribute to all involved both on and off the Squadron.

Overall a fantastic year for No.3 Squadron thanks to a great team and a can do attitude. No.3 Squadron wishes everyone in the RNZAF a very Merry Christmas.

WGCDR Darryn Webb, CO Flying Training Wing

Aviation is filled with highs and lows and this would be a fair description of the 2007 year in review for Flying Training Wing (FTW). Kicking off in January the dearth of serviceable Airtrainers made basic flying training frustrating and challenging for instructors and students alike. Nonetheless, innovative scheduling and the typical ‘can do’ spirit prevailed with 18 proud graduating pilots marching out to receive their brevets in addition to over 220 000 New Zealanders treated to the thrills of the spectacular Red Checkers display team—a record number.

Embracing training technology remains a focus for FTW as the upgraded and new FE aircraft merge onto the near horizon. Modernised courseware, IT based solutions and integrated learning management systems are options that have real potential to align RNZAF flying training with external providers, as well as improving the success rate; a significant spin-off in line with the Strategic Plan. Although advanced flying training takes precedence at No.42 Squadron, the Kingairs have still managed to provide much needed domestic airlift to most quarters of the NZDF - thanks to the flexibility of instructors and the quintessential bograt. Furthermore, with the Kingair ten-year lease nearing its end, the Advanced Pilot Training Capability (APTC) project provides an exciting replacement opportunity. FTW is positioning to acquire a cutting edge advanced pilot training system encapsulating a ‘whole of training’ philosophy—where an aircraft is but one segment of the pie. But none of this is possible without the right people.

FTW personnel are an essential core element to successful military air operations, and I have again had the advantage of an excellent team across the wing. The RNZAF survival school continues to provide outstanding service on time, every time and offshore, AWO training continues with professional autonomy. Our aim is to produce aircrew with an operational mindset prepared for future learning. With motivated staff and students, 2008 looks set to see that happen again.