C-27J Spartan demonstration strengthens ties

A flight to Badu – part of Exercise Coastwatcher Wallaby 23 in mid-July – was to demonstrate the C-27J Spartan’s unique capabilities which will strengthen ties between 35 Squadron and Charlie Company, 51st Battalion, The Far North Queensland Regiment (51FNQR).

35 Squadron executive officer and pilot Squadron Leader Nathan Thompson said communities in the Torres Strait were set to benefit from C-27J Spartans’ increased capability to land and take-off on shorter and less prepared runways.

To demonstrate the C-27J Spartan’s unique capability, 35 Squadron crew employed advanced flying techniques to take-off and land on Badu Island’s approximately 800m long runway for the first time, with the local community lining the airfield to cheer them on.

The C-27J Spartan then went on static display and the local community was invited on board to chat with the crew.

Squadron Leader Thompson said the community support was imperative.

“Community engagement is so important because we