Bombs boom at Kaipara

The Kaipara Air Weapons Range will be the target as Number 5 Squadron from the RNZAF undertakes bombing training this week. AK 07-0229-091.

9 June 2008

High explosive bombs have been rocking the Kaipara Air Weapons Range north of Auckland as the Royal New Zealand Air Force undertakes bombing training.

This week will see a RNZAF P3-K Orion drop 42 MK 82 (500lb) bombs as part of an exercise designed to ensure personnel maintain the skills necessary for the operation, preparation and release of ordnance.

Number 5 Squadron Commanding Officer, Wing Commander Logan Cudby said the training aimed to make sure everyone involved from pilots and air crew, to ground crew and armament personnel had the necessary training to handle, load and drop high explosive weaponry.

“The Air Force’s Orions can be armed with either depth bombs or torpedoes. This bombing week practices the critical links between ground support personnel and air crews to ensure the weapons can be delivered accurately,” he said.

ENDS

For further information please contact Anna Sussmilch, Defence Public Relations, on 04 496 0286 or 021 676 338

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