CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF SERVICE TO NEW ZEALAND
75 of the royal new zealand air force
th anniversary
March – April 2012 • Air Shows • International Aircraft • Parades • Stamp Launch www.airforce.mil.nz
75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
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Greetings from Chief of Air Force
I
n 1937, as the world descended into the dark days of WWII, the New Zealand Government made the decision to form the Royal New Zealand Air Force as an independent arm of the military. This decision recognised the growing understanding that air power would play a critical role in future conflict and in protecting New Zealand’s future security interests.
Seventy five years on, the RNZAF has not only delivered on the promise that the Government expected, but it has developed into a very professional, effective Air Force that is respected around the world. This respect has grown not only out of wartime service, but also for outstanding contributions to regional and international humanitarian emergencies, as well as tasks at home in support of the Government’s broader security and national support requirements. Our vision is: New Zealand’s Air Force, Ready, Resilient and Respected. We are your Air Force, here to deliver military air operations in a wide variety of places and situations. The stories on the following pages will give you a good insight into our past, present and future. We want you to know about us and to understand what we do for you and for our country. This 75th anniversary year gives us an opportunity to showcase our talented people and 21st Century aircraft and equipment to you, so I invite you to take the time to get to know us and to join in our celebration.
of service to New Zealand
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his year the Royal New Zealand Air Force is celebrating 75 years of service to the nation. This significant milestone is a celebration of the RNZAF’s proud heritage and culture and the role its airmen and women have played in this country, the region and on the international stage over the past 75 years.
An Act of Parliament in 1937 made the RNZAF independent of the Army and, by the end of WWII, the new service had built up to be a large and effective air arm. By the actions of its men and women throughout the world war, and in many conflicts and operations since, our Air Force has created a rich history, in which all New Zealanders can take pride. The RNZAF of 2012 looks vastly different from the past. Over time there have been many significant changes that have shaped the way it operates. Some
of the changes have been brought about by the global political and economic landscape, while others have resulted from a shift in strategy as outlined in the Defence White Paper 2010. The RNZAF of today is a modern and effective force able to conduct military air operations to protect New Zealand’s interests and support regional stability. Just as it has met the challenges of the past 75 years, New Zealand’s Air Force today is well equipped to meet the challenges of the coming decades.
Produced by and for the Royal New Zealand Air Force. Front cover: FLTLT Talen Willox and FLTLT Kate Wright from No. 5 Squadron, RNZAF, Base Auckland.
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75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
INTERNATIONAL AIR SHOW AT OHAKEA J et fighters and huge jet transports will join historic Mustangs and Spitfires at RNZAF Base Ohakea on 31 March, as five nations join in to celebrate the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s 75th Anniversary.
Aircraft from the Royal Australian Air Force, the United States Air Force, the US Marine Corps, the Royal Air Force, the Republic of Singapore Air Force and the Armee de l’Air from French New Caledonia are to take part, with the focus on the modern tactical transports. “They will be here to help celebrate our Air Force’s 75th birthday, with a spectacular Air Show,” says Air Commodore Steve Moore. “The Australian FA-18 Hornets will provide some spectacular jet fighter displays, rarely seen in this country. The RAAF is also bringing its latest model Hercules, the C-130J, and the new, high tech, ‘Wedgetail’ airborne early warning and control aircraft.” The United States Air Force is to send a C-17 Globemaster III. The Republic of Singapore Air Force will display one of its C-130 Hercules and the French Armed Forces from New Caledonia will demonstrate its CASA 235 twin-engine transport aircraft. In Australian FA-18A Hornets will be among the stars of the RNZAF Air Show.
addition, the US Marine Corps will display a KC-130 Hercules air-to-air refuelling aircraft. The Royal Air Force has confirmed its involvement with a new A330 tanker transport. New Zealand’s own military aircraft of the past, present and future will also be on show to the public, supported by selected Warbirds, with types from the two world wars that saw service in the RNZAF.
“The RNZAF will showcase its new A109 and NH90 helicopters, the upgraded C-130 Hercules and P-3 Orions, and our other military aircraft. The Red Checkers will also demonstrate their aerial expertise.” The stunning range of civil-owned Warbirds and vintage aircraft will include Spitfires, Kittyhawks, a Corsair and a Mustang, along with a Bristol Fighter of the WWI era. There will be something for everyone from flying displays, a wide range of ground displays, the RNZAF’s newest aircraft and training technology, food stalls and children’s entertainment. “It’s the perfect way to celebrate the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s birthday,” said Air Commodore Steve Moore.
Prepare to get excited as aircraft from New Zealand and across the globe come together for a spectacular air show See pages 11, 12 and 13 for more information on the Air Show
the air force: making its mark across the globe
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he Air Force must be flexible, agile and able to respond to a broad range of contingencies. These range from humanitarian and disaster relief, through to regional stability and security operations, and combat operations across the globe. The Air Force has strong and enduring ties with other partner Air Forces including Australia, United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia and Japan founded on history and shared experiences. It works alongside these Air Forces on exercises and operations around the world. Partner exercises include the annual Five Power Defence Arrangements’ (FPDA) interoperability exercises with Australia, Malaysia, Singapore and the United Kingdom; non-combatant evacuation and disaster relief exercises in the Pacific; Middle East readiness exercises in the United States; and exercises based in this country and Australia with the Australian Defence Force. New Zealand is dominated by the maritime environment with the world’s fourth largest Exclusive Economic Zone to protect. With primary production its biggest export earner, both these features help to determine New Zealand’s security requirements. In global terms, New Zealand is a remote, democratic island nation with a comparatively small population, perched near the bottom of the globe. But in terms of the South Pacific, New Zealand’s size, population and comparative wealth make it a significant player in the South Pacific. Added to this, New Zealand has various constitutional responsibilities and strong cultural and historical ties with the Pacific. There is a long history of military co-operation between Australia and New Zealand. Anzac forces have fought together and cooperated in many major conflicts. Other countries that the NZDF has a presence in are Afghanistan, Timor-Leste, Persian Gulf, Iraq, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, Republic of Korea, Sinai Peninsula, Solomon Islands and Sudan.
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75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
RNZAF over land and sea Search and rescue and resource protection
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ew Zealand has search and rescue responsibility for over 30 million square kilometres of land and sea — this is the largest search and rescue region in the world. The Air Force plays a major role in contributing to these search and rescue operations with its range of aircraft.
On the ground in Christchurch.
The Air Force is a key player in the protection of New Zealand’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), New Zealand’s exclusive maritime zone, which is the fourth largest in the world.
Pacific drought Early October 2011 saw the Air Force head to the Pacific Islands of Tuvalu and Tokelau to assist in a multi-national operation to provide emergency water supplies to the drought stricken islands. A Boeing 757 and C-130 Hercules were dispatched and Defence Force staff spent the next five days flying in and out of the Islands delivering fresh water and desalination equipment for the Islands’ people. The aircraft became a means of transporting dignitaries, aid workers and media on and off the Islands.
Disaster relief and humanitarian assistance Christchurch earthquake The Air Force is often the first port of call when responding to national or regional disasters. When the Christchurch earthquake struck on 22 February 2011 all three services had been preparing for a large exercise in the region, so were able to respond within just a few hours. The afternoon of the quake, a P-3K Orion aircraft flew over the city, collecting images of roads, bridges, rail lines, power stations and schools in the Christchurch
area. Later in the day a Boeing 757 left Whenuapai carrying search and rescue teams, ambulance, and Customs personnel. Two Iroquois helicopters flew from Ohakea to Christchurch to support Civil Defence in the aftermath. Meanwhile, the Hercules and Boeing aircraft flew from Christchurch to the North Island and back many times to support movement of civil defence personnel and police, and the evacuation of patients and prisoners.
On the ground in Christchurch.
The stricken SPARTA More recently crew from No. 40 Squadron were able to providing long-range support to the Russian fishing vessel SPARTA on the Ross Sea and in New Zealand’s
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Air Force Operations
middle east RNZAF personnel act as UN Military Observers.
Afghanistan Air Force staff are members of the NZPRT in Afghanistan. republic of korea RNZAF officers share in UN duties along the DMZ.
sinai The Air Force has contributed
solomon islands
to the MFO since 1982.
PERSIAN gulf RNZAF aircraft deploy to the Gulf region.
antarCtica The RNZAF flies sudan RNZAF officers serve with
to the ice every summer.
Air Force people have served in the Solomons since 2003.
timor-leste RNZAF personnel and aircraft transport the NZDF contingent.
NZDF personnel in UN roles.
area of search and rescue responsibility. A C-130 Hercules and its crew headed to Christchurch to pick up the Army’s 5 Movement Company (the unit responsible for air logistics support), before heading out to sea and to the site of the Sparta, approximately seven hours away. Salt water pumps, fuel and equipment were air dropped onto the vessel on 17 December with a second drop on 21 December. The flights were an example of the C-130 Hercules at its best — combining capable aircraft with skilled people at short notice to achieve a critical task. The grounded RENA New Zealand’s most recent disaster saw the Air Force spring into action to assist with the rescue effort of the grounded ship RENA. A C-130 Hercules made an urgent trip to Australia to pick up oil containment equipment. Iroquois
helicopters from No. 3 Squadron carried people and equipment from Tauranga Airport to the ship and later carried conservation personnel to outlaying locations to check at-risk bird and sea life. Seasprite helicopters provided day and night search and rescue cover for the salvage operations, while other Air Force personnel were on the ground assisting with the clean up.
Peacekeeping operations The Air Force conducts peacekeeping and peace support operations around the world in regions and countries, in accordance with the New Zealand Government’s priorities. • Afghanistan • Arabian Gulf • Middle East • Timor-Leste • Republic of Korea • Sinai • Solomon Islands • Sudan
Tactical training To maintain readiness and effectiveness in combat situations the Air Force continues its focus on training and preparedness. Tactical training is done in New Zealand and overseas, in combination with the Army and Navy and often with allied forces. • New Zealand (Blackbird, Tungsten, Wiseowl, Willoh, Skytrain) • Australia (Precision Red, Double Trouble, Pitch Black) • Pacific (Tropic Twilight) • Singapore and Malaysia (Five Power Defence Arrangements) • North America (Green Flag East)
www.airforce.mil.nz
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75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
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he Air Force is characterised by its rapid response, long reach and flexibility across a broad range of events.
The A109.
For it to keep pace in an increasingly technologybased environment, it needs to make sure it has the right assets and capability to get the job done. Whether it’s assisting with disaster relief, search and rescue operations, surveillance over the region’s land and waters or undertaking military operations, the Air Force assets need to be up to the task. As a response to this, the Air Force is undertaking significant upgrades to its aircraft fleets. These large scale projects will see all operational aircraft upgraded or replaced by the end of 2013.
New aircraft The Air Force’s most recent purchases include two new helicopter fleets — the A109 and NH90. The A109 is a light utility, twin-engine helicopter with a modern glass cockpit and a retractable wheel undercarriage. It will be used for training pilots and aircrew who will later fly the NH90 and SH-2G Seasprite and perform light helicopter missions. The NH90 is an advanced medium utility helicopter, capable of undertaking a wide variety of roles in New Zealand and overseas. It will be used for military and civil operations and has the capability to support ground operations, counter terrorism, disaster relief, search and rescue and counter-drug operations.
21st Century Aircraft The NH90.
These new fleets will join No. 3 Squadron (the Rotary Wing Transport Force), in Ohakea when they are fully operational.
Upgraded aircraft Modification of the Boeing 757 to meet global air traffic requirements and provide a cargo/passenger combination role has been completed. The two aircraft are in service as 'combi' systems, able to carry passengers and freight in up to 13 different configurations. Upgrades to the P-3K Orion fleet to modernise their surveillance, reconnaissance, navigation and communication systems are underway. The upgrade will result in improved intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capability. This will broaden the Orion’s role from traditional maritime operations to include overland operations. The C-130H Hercules fleet is also being upgraded with new mechanical, avionic, and structural components, and installation of a modern communications and navigations system with a ‘glass' flight deck using integrated flight management systems. All this recent investment will ensure RNZAF missions deploy with the right capability and equipment to get the job done.
The Boeing 757.
The P-3K Orion.
The C-130H Hercules.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE
ROYAL NEW ZEALAND AIR FORCE FOR 75 YEARS OF LOYAL SERVICE.
THIS IS HOW
C-130
Happy anniversary and congratulations on 75 years of service and excellence. Lockheed Martin is proud to have partnered with the RNZAF for almost as many years, strengthening international relations and saving lives with the C-130 and P-3. Continuing a strong partnership for many more years to come and providing reliable products is all a question of how. And it is the how that Lockheed Martin delivers.
www.lockheedmartin.com/c130
75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
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75th anniversary
31 march 2012 come and join the fun! Air Show Program
Aircraft at the Air Show C-17 Globemaster
The RNZAF Red Checkers
RNZAF
International Aircraft
Flying Displays:
Flying and Static Displays:
• Red Checkers
• Royal Australian Air Force F-18A Hornet
• Kiwi Blue Parachute Team
• United States Air Force C-17
• Boeing 757
Static Displays:
• C -130 Hercules • P-3K Orion • UH-1H Iroquois • SH-2G Seasprite • A109 LUH • B200 King Air • Historic Flight Tiger Moth, Harvard and Sioux
0800 Gates Open to public 0900 Static displays open 1000 Air display commences 1515 Air display complete 1530 Static displays close 1530-1700 Civil spectator aircraft depart 1700 Airfield closed to public Hercules on show
• Royal Australian Air Force B737 Wedgetail • Royal Australian Air Force C-17 • Royal Australian Air Force C-130J Singapore Air Force C-130 • French Armed Forces of New Caledonia CASA 235 • US Marine Corps KC-130 • RAF A330 MRTT
Static Displays: • NH90
Hawker Hunter Jet warbird
• A109 • Upgraded C-130 Hercules (LEP) The RNZAF Kiwi Blue Parachute Team
Bristol Fighter
Warbirds and Civil Aircraft Flying and Static Displays: • • • • • • • • • • •
Boeing B777 Bristol Fighter Fokker DVII Spitfire Avenger Dakota Auster Anson Beaver Kittyhawk Corsair
• • • • • • • • • •
Yaks Vampire Strikemaster Hunter Mustang Thunder Mustang MX2 PAC750XL Beech Texan Gyrocopters
Tickets: General Admission - Single : $10.00 General Admission - Car/Family: $30.00 Children under 5: FREE
Air Show Updates
Airshow Radio
88.0 MHz Air Display programme is dependant on weather and serviceability. Wet weather alternate day is 01 April.
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75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
Traffic
Airfield Layout – Ohakea Air Base
Heavy traffic is expected for the air show. Traffic from the north and west will be directed along SH1 from the Rangitikei River Bridge into lanes to enter Ohakea via the main entrance. Traffic from the south and east will be diverted just after Sanson into Fagan Road, then around the south side of the airfield along Speedy Road, to enter Ohakea via Tangimoana Road and Pukenui Road. The departure flow will be in reverse; parking areas at Ohakea are separate to reduce congestion as people depart.
Key 1
INFO Tent, Lost children, Lost and Found, First Aid
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Ground Displays
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Disabled Parking
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Childrens Entertainment
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Bicycle Parking
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Radio Station / PA
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Static and Flying Display Aircraft
Food
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3 Sqn Display
Elderly Disabled Seating
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5
Technical Trades Display
Public Rest Area, Seating and Baby Change Facilities
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Avionics Display
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DC-3 and Helipro Rides
Public Access Area
The airshow is an alcohol-free event; no alcohol allowed into the base.
Getting there FROM NORTH & WEST
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Visit the RNZAF website for details and ticket information:
CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF SERVICE TO NEW ZEALAND
www.airforce.mil.nz
75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
air displays • food stalls • entertainment • free parking H UT
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75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
Anniversary events & activities 25 March - 8 April As part of the 75th Anniversary celebrations the Red Checkers will be displaying at various locations in the North Island over the period 25 March - 2 April and in the South Island, 2 April - 8 April. For further information, visit www.airforce.mil.nz
31 March Air Force Air Show (Base Ohakea)
3 April RNZAF 75th birthday celebrations, Wellington • Forecourt Parade, Parliament • Commemorative Service, St Paul’s Cathedral
7–8 April Warbirds over Wanaka (Red Checkers display)
25 April Anzac Day commemorations, New Zealand wide
28 April
www.airforce.mil.nz
RNZAF 75th birthday celebrations, Auckland • Auckland City Charter Parade
SUPPORTING THE RNZAF FOR OVER 70 YEARS www.cuddon.co.nz | sales@cuddon.co.nz
Beechcraft T-6C Texan II. Built to Meet New Zealand’s Standards.
Tested. Proven. Capable.
• Over 750 in-service worldwide • 1.8+ million fleet flight hours • 12+ years of safe flying in the field • FAA Certified, U.S. Military Qualified
The Beechcraft T-6C TEXAN II is the best next-generation military trainer for the RNZAF. No other military trainer can match its flying record and accordingly, the T-6C is the military trainer for many air forces worldwide, including the primary military trainer for the U.S. military. Its advanced all-glass avionics and cockpit replicates the experience of flying a modern agile aircraft, complete with Head-Up Display and HOTAS controls. A single T-6C fills the role of numerous older generation military trainers, because it is designed for all levels of instruction from ab-initio to advanced flight and operational training, complete with hard point wings for external fuel tanks and weapons training. Its reliable Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-68 turboprop engine generates the performance and challenge needed to train and test pilots of the future in an efficient and effective way. Total training solutions are already in place and ready to meet the needs of the RNZAF and includes aircraft, simulators, computer-based academics, and sustainable logistics. Only the T-6C has the proven ability to transition pilots from basic to advanced flight training in the shortest amount of time – at an affordable cost. The T-6C is TESTED, PROVEN AND CAPABLE! Learn more visit HawkerBeechcraft.com.
Hawker Beechcraft Congratulates the RNZAF on 75 Years of Excellence!
AgustaWestland congratulates the Royal New Zealand Air Force on 75 years of service
LEADING THE FUTURE agustawestland.com
75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
Air Force people
The Air Force is not just about pilots. It has a diverse range of career paths, from engineers, logisticians, security, aircrew and other skilled trades to ground office roles that include medical, psychologist, intelligence, communications and information systems (CIS) and supply officers. This group of diverse roles makes up today's professional Air Force. Civilians are an important part of the Air Force too and play a key role in meeting the RNZAF’s primary mission, supporting Defence activities, often bringing specialist expertise and performing a wide range of functions.
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he backbone of the Air Force is its people who, through their professionalism, teamwork and discipline, are able to produce results disproportionate to their numbers. The Air Force offers a stimulating and interesting work environment and new recruits learn very quickly when they join the service that they have a great career ahead of them. With training that is second to none, Air Force people are well prepared for the tasks they will undertake.
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traditions and history, and discipline. These values are well established and respected in the Air Force. They have become its guiding principles. Ceremonial The Air Force has a long history of recognising and acknowledging military ceremonial occasions. This dates back to New Zealand’s British origins and connections to the mother land. The Air Force remembers ex-service men and women and their families and friends on these occasions, especially those who sacrificed their lives to protect their country.
Life on the base The Air Force has three bases: two in the North Island, at Ohakea (near Palmerston North) and Auckland, and one in the South Island – at Woodbourne near Blenheim. Headquarters is located on Aitken Street in Wellington. Each base is home to a number of units and is a self-contained community with work and residential accommodation and a full range of recreational facilities, including a gym, swimming pool and tennis and squash courts. Life in the Air Force is not all work. Sport is played on all the bases, and interbase competition is fierce! A lively social life is there for the taking and people can actively get involved with community activities and make lifelong friends. What the Air Force stands for The Air Force vision is “Ready, Resilient and Respected”. Complementing its vision are its values of service and allegiance, professionalism, integrity, teamwork,
For more information about careers in the Air Force: www.defencecareers.mil.nz or call 0800 I FORCE
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75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
• 1964, No.14 Squadron (Canberras) deployed to Singapore to counter Indonesian ‘Confrontation’ against Malaysia. The squadron returned to New Zealand in 1966.
Antarctic Support The RNZAF Antarctic Flight was formed in 1956 to support the Commonwealth Trans-Antarctic Expedition. From 1965, C-130 Hercules of No.40 Sqn commenced summer flights to the Ice; this commitment continues today.
The RNZAF – a concise history WWII bomber crew 1944: Flight Lieutenant Ian Sutherland is at centre. Today he lives in the Wairarapa.
Origins
D
uring WWI, many young New Zealanders were trained at flying schools in NZ for service in the Royal Naval Air Service or the Royal Flying Corps. A few also flew with the Australian Flying Corps. In 1923 the ‘New Zealand Permanent Air Force’ was formed, and in 1934 King George V gave permission for the NZPAF to adopt the title Royal New Zealand Air Force, although it remained under Army control. In 1935 the Labour Government reviewed defence policy and subsequently the Air Force Act came into force on 1 April 1937, providing for a separate Air Force. During 1939, the British and New Zealand Governments agreed that the RNZAF’s role would be to provide trained aircrew to the RAF if a European war broke out.
World War II The British Commonwealth Air Training Plan linked Canada, Australia and NZ for aircrew training for the RAF. Ultimately 7002 New Zealanders passed through this scheme and flew in all theatres of the war. Thirty Wellington bombers, purchased for the RNZAF, were offered with their aircrew to the RAF, becoming No.75 (NZ) Squadron. New Zealanders played a full part in Bomber Command, which made the major Allied offensive directly against Nazi Germany, ultimately crippling the enemy war economy. Six other “New Zealand” squadrons, Nos. 485– 490, were established in the RAF. The deeds of the New Zealanders in the RAF are well recorded; among them, three New Zealanders won the VC on air operations. During 1941 the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) was established; over 4700 WAAFs served in the RNZAF during WWII.
Singapore to man No.488 Squadron (flying Brewster Buffalo fighters) and other RAF squadrons. The RNZAF Aerodrome Construction Unit built airfields there. However, Singapore fell in February 1942. Modern Kittyhawk fighters began arriving in NZ during March 1942. The first RNZAF squadron to engage the Japanese was No.3 Squadron [Hudson bombers] in November 1942. It was joined in the Islands by No.15 Squadron [Kittyhawks]. In 1943/44 the NZ Fighter Wing in the Solomons shot down 99 Japanese aircraft. Catalina flying boats and Ventura bombers were also deployed there; by VJ Day in 1945 the RNZAF had more than 7000 personnel stationed throughout the Solomon Islands.
Sunderland Flying Boat operations for the RNZAF were based at Fiji until 1966. The arrival of new P-3B Orions meant the base in Fiji closed and maritime operations moved to Whenuapai. In 1965 our first C-130 Hercules transports arrived, along with Iroquois and Sioux helicopters. Wasp helicopters were bought to operate off our frigates. In 1970 the Air Force took delivery of A-4 Skyhawk attack aircraft; subsequently, Strikemaster jet trainers replaced the old Vampires. Vietnam. No.40 Squadron Hercules airlifted NZ troops to South Vietnam, and No.41 Squadron Freighters flew regular re-supply missions. In 1967 RNZAF helicopter pilots commenced duties with No.9 Squadron RAAF in Vietnam. Other pilots served as Forward Air Controllers—in total 30 RNZAF pilots served in Vietnam between 1967 and 1971.
No.14 Squadron (Corsairs) deployed to Japan as part of the Occupation Force. Meanwhile, Dakotas and Lodestars of No.40 Squadron assisted with commercial airline operations and the Air Force carried out aerial topdressing trials.
The Cold War The Cold War dominated international relations from 1948 until 1990; the RNZAF’s equipment and operations were shaped by that conflict. • 1949, peacetime Compulsory Military Training; the Territorial Air Force reformed with Mustang fighters. • The Korean War led to a re-equipment programme: Vampire jet fighters, Hastings and Bristol Freighter transports, Sunderland flying boats and Devon light transports. • 1948-54, the strategic focus for the Commonwealth was the Middle East; in 1952 No.14 Squadron deployed to Cyprus, flying Vampire jets.
Pacific War
• 1955, No.14 Squadron re-deployed to the Commonwealth Strategic Reserve in Singapore. No.41 Squadron (Bristol Freighters) also deployed there.
Japan entered the war on 8 December 1941 (NZ time). Flying boats were acquired for reconnaissance around the Fijian Islands. Meanwhile RNZAF airmen went to
• 1958, No.75 Squadron (Canberra bombers) took part in the campaign against communist terrorists in Malaya.
During the 1970s NZ-built CT4 Airtrainers, HawkerSiddley Andover transports and ex-Air New Zealand Fokker Friendships entered service. A major change was the integration of the Women’s Royal New Zealand Air Force into the Air Force in 1977. The 1984 ANZUS rift with the USA meant the RNZAF lost many exercise and personnel exchange opportunities, even as the Cold War was reaching a climax. In 1987 the Air Force celebrated its 50th Anniversary, and the Air Force Museum was opened at Wigram. Four years later No.2 Squadron (Skyhawks) moved to Nowra in Australia where it provided training for the Australian Navy. The last RNZAF unit in Singapore, No.141 Flight (Iroquois), came home in 1989. The Cold War ended in 1990 when the USSR fragmented and Russia adopted democracy. In 1990/91 the RNZAF deployed two Hercules and personnel to the Gulf War against Iraq.
75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
Peacekeeping New Zealand’s participation in peacekeeping duties increased from the 1980s; the RNZAF sent air contingents to: • the Multi-national Force and Observers (MFO) Sinai, Egypt. The RNZAF operated leased helicopters for the MFO 1982 – 1986. • An RNZAF Andover Detachment deployed to the United Nations International Military Observer Group (UNIMOG) in Iran 1988–1990. • Somalia, 1993; an Andover detachment was sent as NZ’s contribution to the Unified Task Force to distribute humanitarian relief. • Other humanitarian airlifts were conducted by Hercules and Boeing 727 aircraft of No.40 Sqn in the Middle East and Rwanda. The Squadron also provided air transport support to the NZ Army contingent in Bosnia during 1994–1996. • Bougainville, Papua New Guinea, 1997; The RNZAF deployed the NZ-led Truce Monitoring Group (23 Hercules flights by three aircraft and crews) and deployed three Iroquois helicopters with support personnel onto the Island. The helicopters served there until April 1998, with the Iroquois painted distinctively orange. • East Timor, 1999; two Hercules of No.40 Squadron joined RAAF Hercules evacuating UN personnel from
the violence. The Hercules then played a full part, alongside the RAAF, to fly in troops for INTERFET, which took over until elections could be held. • A detachment of six Iroquois and 140 RNZAF personnel deployed to East Timor to support the NZ Battalion. The NZDF remains committed to Timor-Leste today and RNZAF personnel continue to serve there.
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helicopters of No.3 Sqn. A number of natural disasters, such as the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, tropical cyclones in the South Pacific and the 2008 Pacific tsunami, demanded short notice airlift, reconnaissance flights by the Orions and deployments of the helicopters.
Into the 21st Century By 1999 the RNZAF had restructured into three main bases—Auckland, Ohakea and Woodbourne—with No.2 Squadron at Nowra (Australia). On 8 May 2001 the Government announced that the Air Combat Force of Skyhawk fighters and Aermacchi jet trainers would be disbanded; their operations ended on 13 December 2001. In July 2001 elements of the RNZAF’s Air Command were integrated into the new NZDF Joint Force Headquarters located at Trentham. The SH-2G Seasprite entered service aboard our frigates. The terrorist attacks in the USA (9/11) led to Operation Enduring Freedom; NZ joined the coalition and RNZAF Hercules became regular visitors into Afghanistan. As well, No 5 Sqn Orion surveillance aircraft were deployed to the Gulf region. In the same period, Solomon Islands invited NZDF and Australian units in to enforce security, including the
Beca congratulates the Royal New Zealand Air Force on 75 years of service
These events underlined the RNZAF’s emphasis on strategic and tactical air transport, maritime surveillance and response, and operating helicopters in support of our Army and Navy. This confirmed the need to upgrade our aircraft: • The Boeing 757s (acquired in 2003) gained multirole capability, • The C-130 Life Extension Programme will keep the Hercules operational to 2020, • The P-3 Orions are being re-fitted for contemporary surveillance and response tasks, and • The helicopters are being replaced by the AgustaWestland A109 (light utility and training) and the NH90 (tactical lift). The 2010 Defence White Paper confirmed the place of the RNZAF within the NZ Defence Force and confirmed the commitment to aircraft upgrades and replacement.
marked with a stamp
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or an organisation to exist 75 years while remaining relevant and successful is an accomplishment worth celebrating. The RNZAF has achieved just that, and New Zealand Post is marking this significant anniversary with an official stamp and coin issue. Officially established in 1937, the RNZAF has made a considerable contribution to war and peace-time efforts in New Zealand and around the world. It’s an organisation steeped in tradition and heritage, and the service it has provided to New Zealand has played a key role in shaping our nation’s military history.
Stamps are much more than just a means of postage, and have been described as ‘miniature works of art’. The RNZAF stamp issue is no exception, with each stamp capturing a moment in time or key area of service. By using original photographs from the past 75 years, together they build a complete picture of the RNZAF’s history and diversity. The stamps portray 15 areas in which the RNZAF has been actively involved – from its participation in World War II and its support of operations in South East Asia, to its important role in search and rescue and international peacekeeping operations. They also recognise pioneering activities such as the RNZAF support of aerial topdressing, and the importance of ‘remembrance’. Importantly, they pay tribute to the personnel of the RNZAF (including the Women’s Auxilliary Air Force and the Air Training Corps) whose service has played a vital role in the organisations’ success. The official collectable coin is made from one ounce of pure silver, and makes a lasting memento of the RNZAF’s 75th anniversary. These official collectable products pay tribute to the role that the RNZAF has played in New Zealand’s past, and also aim to raise awareness about the importance of the RNZAF today. Looking ahead, the RNZAF will continue to evolve, with 28 new or upgraded aircraft planned by 2014. The introduction of new technology and ongoing investment in its people will ensure that the RNZAF remains an important part of New Zealand’s national identity.
75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
LIFT OFF
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NH90 medium lift helicopter NZ3301 lifts off at Wellington Airport after the official welcoming ceremony on 9 March. Two aircraft are now flying with the Helicopter Transition Unit at RNZAF Base Ohakea; the remaining six for the RNZAF fleet will be delivered to New Zealand during 2012 and 2013.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE RNZAF ON THEIR 75TH ANNIVERSARY.
“THE FIRST LINE IN SUPPLY” We are proud to be associated with the RNZAF and look forward to our continuing partnership.
BUILDING CERTAINTY.
Mainzeal is very proud to be working with RNZAF on the Ohakea Maintenance Support Squadron facility. Congratulations on your 75th Anniversary. www.mainzeal.com
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For the last 75 years, we’ve worked with the RNZAF to provide a safe, EFlCIENT AND EFFECTIVE AIR TRAFlC CONTROL SERVICE 4HE NAME ABOVE THE DOOR MAY HAVE CHANGED n WE RE NOW !IRWAYS .: BUT WERE ONCE KNOWN AS THE #IVIL !VIATION $IVISION OF THE -INISTRY OF 4RANSPORT n BUT OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFETY AND WORLD CLASS SERVICE HAS NEVER WAVERED 7E CONGRATULATE THE 2.:!& ON REACHING THIS MILESTONE AND CELEBRATE OUR LONG STANDING PARTNERSHIP WITH THEM !IRWAYS HAS BEEN INTEGRAL TO 2.:!& OPERATIONS AND HAS LONG BEEN EMBEDDED IN THE ORGANISATION INCLUDING STAFF IN UNIFORM INTERNATIONAL DEPLOYMENTS AND AIR COMBAT lGHTER CONTROL A STRIKE WING OPERATION SELDOM PROVIDED BY CIVILIAN AIR TRAFlC CONTROLLERS !IRWAYS LOOKS FORWARD TO CONTINUING THIS SUCCESSFUL PARTNERSHIP AND PROVIDING UNIQUE AND SPECIALISED SERVICES TO THE 2.:!& FOR THE NEXT YEARS n AND BEYOND 0OST ,EVEL -AJESTIC #ENTRE 7ILLIS 3TREET 7ELLINGTON s 4EL s &AX s WWW AIRWAYS CO NZ
75th anniversary of the royal new zealand air force
C OMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL PR OCESS L OGISTICS C OMMUNITY
Congratulations RNZAF on your 75th Anniversary Award winning building solutions Review our project portfolio www.ebert.co.nz
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The Air Force is recruiting so now you can.