From the Land of the Long White Cloud to the Islands of the Rising Sun

A NZ P-3K Orion with the slopes of Japan’s Mt Fuji in the background. WN-07-0037-18-tn.jpg.

In early October, No.5 Squadron deployed to Atsugi, Japan. This was the first crew in Squadron memory to exercise with the Japanese.

Exercise Pacific Shield was a Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) started by anti smuggling exercises under Operation Enduring Freedom. It focussed on improving capabilities and enhancing deterrence against Weapons of Mass Destruction proliferation activities. It also served as a multi national coordinated operation between Japan, USA, UK, Australia, France and New Zealand, all under the watchful eye of a very large media contingent.

The first day was a long haul flight directly to Guam. We made the quick hop to Atsugi, Japan to make good the very strict timings set down for us by our hosts. Taxiing into an extremely warm welcome the crew were buzzing with anticipation. After formalities we enjoyed a traditional lunch with the Japanese VP 6 Squadron personnel. Leaving the Crew Executives behind to attend briefings the rest of us settled into our hotel.

CAPT John Campbell, CO of VP6 Sqn, the DA’s Assistant, and CO No.5 Squadron WGCDR Cudby. WN-07-0037-15-tn.jpg.

Day two saw VP 6 Squadron challenge us to a game of softball. Our extremely intimidating haka was applauded before, during and after but once the niceties ended we got down to the game at hand. In the end we came out on top by one run. Who said the Japanese aren’t great hosts? Then they backed this up by treating us to an impressive Japanese BBQ for lunch, including smiles and cheesy photos all round!

Saturday was the first day of exercise flying and saw the Kiwi crew straight into action. Providing a comprehensive surface plot to the support elements meant some crew members in particular had an extremely busy flight. The exercise, being conducted so close to Tokyo, meant the exercise arena was immersed in a high density approach area. Consequently the crew was challenged to maintain a high level of situational awareness to ensure flight safety throughout. After three hours on task, we conducted a photo opportunity with the Japanese P-3 at Mt Fuji before recovering to Atsugi. In all, the scenario was run with ruthless Japanese precision.

No.5 Squadron CO, WGCDR Logan Cudby receiving a gift from the CO VP6 Squadron. WN-07-0037-14-tn.jpg.

But it wasn’t all work. Over the next few days there were plenty of opportunities for the crew to look around Tokyo and see the sights and lights. Immersing ourselves in the culture was an unforgettable experience. Some opted to spend a night in a ‘Capsule Hotel’. Others, faced with the dilemma of the trains not running from midnight until 6.00 in the morning, were saved by the fact that the bars, including our very own Kiwi 42 Below Bar, stayed open night and day! Shopping was also a top priority. The electronics district was a popular choice along with Samurai swords. That’s not to mention the many ancient temples and pearl cultivation tours. Two things struck me as the most significant differences in people. Fashion is way ahead of New Zealand in style and sophistication and they are not too conservative to show it. Also how quiet and private they are. On a subway jam packed with people, even a person with chronic claustrophobia would feel the calming effect of being around such a relaxed bunch.

We were made to feel very welcome so far from home and believe the exercise served well in strengthening New Zealand’s political and trade relations with Japan. The crew came away with some great memories of our time there and look forward to reciprocating when two Japanese aircraft, crew and support venture down-under in September 2008 to New Zealand’s hosting of a PSI exercise. We will certainly have our work cut out for us to match their generosity.