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AMG and Plan Jericho LIFTOUTAirman of the Year winner P3

RISE AND

SHINEOur new balloon takes to the air P4

The new Air Force Balloon soars majestically over the countryside.Photo: LACW Katharine Pearson

Inset, CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies with the crew at the launch of the balloon at Defence Establishment Fairbairn in Canberra.Photo: SGT Pete Gammie

AIRF RCEVol. 58, No. 4, March 24, 2016 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

2 March 24, 2016RCEAIR FNews

DirectorDavid Edlington: (02) 6265 4650

Deputy EditorMichelle Hazell: (02) 6265 3259

ReportersWO2 Andrew Hetherington: (02) 6266 7614SGT Dave Morley: (02) 6266 7613CPL Bill Solomou: (02) 6265 1355CPL Max Bree: (02) 6266 7608 CPL Mark Doran: (02) 6265 1304LS Jayson Tufrey: (02) 6266 7606LCPL Sebastian Beurich: (02) 6265 4140

CONTACT [email protected] Editor, Air Force News, R8-LG-047, PO Box 7909, Department of Defence, ACT 2600www.defence.gov.au/news/raafnewsFax: (02) 6265 6690

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RCEAIR F

Living the Air Force Values: RESPECT – EXCELLENCE – AGILITY – DEDICATION – INTEGRITY – TEAMWORK

AMG and Plan Jericho LIFTOUTAirman of the Year winner P3

RISE AND

SHINEOur new balloon takes to the air P4

The new Air Force Balloon soars majestically over the countryside.Photo: LACW Katharine Pearson

Inset, CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies with the crew at the launch of the balloon at Defence Establishment Fairbairn in Canberra.Photo: SGT Pete Gammie

AIRF RCEVol. 58, No. 4, March 24, 2016 The official newspaper of the Royal Australian Air Force

MORE than 1000 personnel were challenged to think differently about how they contribute to air power during the 2016 Air Power Conference in Canberra on March 15 and 16.

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies told the conference, which focused on joint effects and multidomain inte-gration, that people working on the front line and in a networked envi-ronment needed to fit seamlessly with other operators.

“It is people working with other people who create and sustain air power effects. It is the human dimension that sits at the heart of my command philosophy,” he said.

“I’m pretty pleased that we’ve got an air power conference that is so well attended – 10 air chiefs, 25 countries represented, 1000 dele-gates.

“What I like is the internation-al participation and, if you look around, seeing quite a few Army and Navy uniforms.”

AIRMSHL Davies said Air Force now had the systems and capabilities to offer a balanced and truly capable force.

“Our ongoing contribution to Operation Okra is testament to this. This integrated capability will be further enhanced in the coming dec-ade with new systems,” he said.

“By 2025, our oldest aircraft will be a C-130J Hercules – hardly a leg-acy platform.

“Our systems will be world class and world leading, and the cyber and space domains will increas-ingly network our world to create enhanced joint effects.”

AIRMSHL Davies said Plan Jericho was already demonstrating ways to better integrate the elements of Air Force.

But the transformation of Air Force through Plan Jericho was not an end state.

“To provide the government and joint force commanders with the best possible air power options, primarily through technologically advanced systems, we need to have

THE 2016 Air Power Conference explored the use of new live, virtual and constructed training to open up opportunities.

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies said the training could also be used to improve real-world exercises.

“I think that the live virtual ele-ments are going to become essential. They’re going to become the larger part, of how we begin to explore those opportunities that our new sys-tems provide,” he said.

“We can’t do all sim and no fly-ing – the basic reason for that is because it’s not just about the pilots.

“This is about having a mainte-nance system that can support oper-ations. It’s about having weapons technicians, about having data loads, about having the machine loaded. So many pieces in that chain need to come together to make it work.

“If you don’t have that confi-dence that it’s going to work on the day, then we’ve missed a piece.

“It also means what we do air-

borne can be more complicated because we’ve mission-rehearsed in the sim first.”

AIRMSHL Davies said there would also be benefits for joint exer-cises.

“For example, if we’re able to use live virtual simulation in the weeks leading up with Army, where we test the communications and ISR elements, then Army can plan a dif-ferent Exercise Hamel.

“I think we are getting past the point now where we show up on Monday to find out if the two radios work or not, and we don’t get to do anything that delivers combat effect or real-exercise effect for sol-diers, sailors or airmen’s develop-ment until Thursday. I want to know before, that all that is going to work.

“Then we can put boots on the ground, ships on the water and aero-planes in the air to exercise that. So we know that all those elements, and weapons and logistics work.”

Power of people

Value in knowing it will all work

Air Power Conference challenges us all to push the boundaries of possibility

Participants take their seats at the Air Power Conference in Canberra. Photo: SGT Brett Sherriff

‘“It is good to have a broader understanding of air power to know what the plan is. Being ground based and putting the technologies on the aircraft, I can imagine that changing so the things on the ground today, may not be so in the future.”LAC Patrick Gusman, communication electronic technician, RAAF Base Richmond

“Working in international engagement, I got to see the relationships with foreign delegates … I was surprised by the large triservice involvement – lots of green and white. I can’t wait to come back and join in as a participant next time.”OFFCDT Tegan Cawley, posted to AFHQ with Directorate of Inter-national Engagement from Edinburgh

“I enjoyed the sense of vision about what Jericho is trying to achieve and seeing the bigger picture. It provides me with the context to integrate into the historical pieces I need to write now.”RAAF Historian Martin James

“Airmen are our future cyber warriors, working a keyboard not a jet. Airmen need to be empowered with air power, and the interaction and sharing of ideas was fantastic.”WOFF-AF Rob Swanwick

The Air Power Conference attracted positive feedback from people who attended. Here are some of their comments:

IN THEIR WORDS

a skilled and supported workforce,” he said.

“Smart people acquire, operate and sustain Air Force. It is not just about a technician turning a spanner or providing air traffic services.

“Having people trained in their specialisation and educated in what it means to create air power – that truly makes Air Force tick.”

Defence Minister Marise Payne opened the conference and encour-aged Defence people and industry to exploit the opportunities available by working together and exploiting the new systems that will be deliv-ered in the coming decade.

“To maximise the capabilities of our current and future Air Force our

systems must be networked and inte-grated to a degree not previously achieved,” Senator Payne said.

“Air, land and maritime forces need to exploit the high level of con-nectivity made possible by use of systems uniting them through the space and cyber domains.

“Much work has already begun in this regard, under Plan Jericho, to ensure we have a fully networked joint future force across air, space, electromagnetic and cyber.”

She said Air Force would intro-duce and develop capabilities that would enhance its ability to work jointly.

“The work being undertaken by Air Force now in exploring the ‘art

of the possible’ and reducing risk through experimentation and trials means that the benefits of a joint force will be more rapidly realised once the networked systems com-mitted to in the White Paper enter Army and Navy service,” she said.

WGCDR Jason Begley, CO No. 10 Squadron from RAAF Base Edinburgh, said the conference was worthwhile.

“It showed that our Air Force is not just looking at today’s issues but thinking deeply about how to posi-tion itself for the future,” he said.

Next edition: WOFF Rob Swanwick challenges airmen and airwomen to increase air power knowledge

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3March 24, 2016RCEAIR F News

CPL Bill Solomou

THE firefighting instincts of two No. 10 Squadron LACs kicked in when they came across an emer-gency in Perth in the early hours of Monday, March 14.

LACs Zac Long and Chris King were driving back to RAAF Base Pearce when they saw a pizza shop on fire.

“We saw the smoke, I parked the car and we ran over to help,” LAC King said.

“We were the second people on the scene and it was amazing how our training helped us.”

LAC Long said they ensured the fire brigade was called and that nobody was in the building.

“It was amazing. We were going through our drills. We assessed the situation and acted accordingly,” he said.

They agreed the initial risk was the shop’s gas bottles exploding.

“Luckily for us, we were able access water and keep them cool,” LAC King said.

OC 10SQN WGCDR Jason Begley said the airmen’s response was “the kind of decisive action we encourage at all rank levels within 10SQN”.

Cool heads in a hot spot

LAC Chris King, left, and LAC Zac Long moonlighted as firefighters when the heat was on at a Perth pizza shop.

LACW Amy Richardson

DEDICATION and techni-cal mastery beyond the call of duty have earned LAC Luke Burns the 2015 AVM BA Eaton Airman of the Year award.

LAC Burns, 25, a com-munications and information system controller with No. 19 Squadron at Royal Malaysian Air Force Base Butterworth, was surprised to hear he had won the award.

“The CO got the unit together for a meeting and I had no idea what it was about, so when he announced that I won the award I was shocked,” he said.

“I was blown away just being named Combat Support Group Airman of the Year, so being awarded the RAAF Airman of the Year has filled me with even more gratitude and pride.

“I called my mum in Newcastle and she was proud and excited, and of course the news spread fast throughout the rest of the family.

“It’s nice to share this with my family because they have been a constant source of support and encouragement throughout my career, espe-cially during my posting to Malaysia.”

19SQN communications manager FSGT Ben Wright

said LAC Burns’ dedication and technical mastery were integral to the largest and most complex IT upgrade project in RMAF Butterworth’s history.

“Luke went above and beyond what would ever be reasonably expected,” he said.

“His efforts made a sig-nificant contribution to ADF regional capability output, and will continue to do so for many years to come.

“What Luke and the rest of the team achieved was truly rare and exceptional.”

LAC Burns also led fun-draising efforts last year for the Teluk Berhala School on the remote Malaysian island of Pulau Aur, where he trav-

elled in June with a group of 19SQN personnel to donate nearly $3000 worth of educa-tional items to the school.

LAC Burns was quick to acknowledge the support and guidance he received from fel-low airmen and supervisors.

“For me, this award repre-sents so much work and dedi-cation, not only by myself but the remarkable team I have worked with throughout my posting to 19SQN,” he said.

“It’s much easier to be a great airman when you’re sur-rounded and led by other great airmen.”

LAC Burns said the award was a nice reminder that liv-ing and working in alignment

with the Air Force values was recognised and appreciated by others.

“I genuinely love my job and I take pride in my work and the fact that I get the hon-our of being a part of the Air Force, so I’m very grateful to be recognised for that,” he said.

CO 19SQN WGCDR Paul Webb said LAC Burns thor-oughly deserved the award.

“LAC Burns exudes pro-fessionalism in more than one field,” he said.

“But it is his understated service to the ADF and civil-ian community that is truly admirable.”

2015 Air Force proficiency and leadership awards:

AVM BA Eaton Airman of the Year Award LAC Luke Burns No. 19 SquadronAir Force APS Team Member of the Year Award Ms Tania Cox, Air Force HeadquartersAVM Tony Dietz Memorial Quality and Achievement Medallion Military winner – FLTLT Dominique Hoffman, Joint Logistics Command (South Queensland); Civilian winner – Mr Robert Rush, Joint Logistics Com-mandChief of Air Force Instructor of the Year Award FLTLT Shaun Hayles, 2 Operational Conversion UnitHer Majesty The Queen’s Gold Medal (outstanding officer trainee) PLTOFF Brian Duane, ADFAJR Bartram and RA Kee Sword of Honour (School of Technical Train-ing graduate) AC Lucky Wijesuriya, No. 37 SquadronMcCarthy Rowbottom Jones Memo-rial Award (contributions to ADF operational health support) SQNLDR Josie Jarrad, 1 Expeditionary Health SquadronSQNLDR WT Riggs Trophy (best official photograph) CPL David Said, No. 28 Squadron Air Force Imagery Section RichmondThales Australia Leadership Sword (leadership by OTS graduate) FLGOFF Elizabeth Salpietro, Head-quarters Air Training WingWarrant Officer of the Air Force Instructor of the Year Award CPL Leigh Thornton, Surveillance and Control Training UnitAir Force Improvement Leadership Award FLTLT Justin Della Bosca, Air Movements Training and Develop-ment UnitDuke of Gloucester Cup (most proficient flying squadron) No. 33 SquadronHawker Siddeley Trophy (most pro-ficient base) No. 13 (City of Darwin) SquadronMarkowski Cup (most proficient non-flying, non-maintenance, non-reserve and non-training squadron, unit, wing or group) No. 383 SquadronRAAF Maintenance Trophy No. 33 SquadronStonehaven Trophy (most proficient training unit) School of Air Traffic ControlAir Force Improvement Team of the Year Award No. 285 SquadronLipshut Family Bursary. LAC Aytac Fuad No. 17 Squadron

A surprise honourNo flying under the radar for a high-achieving airman from a distant base

AND THE WINNERS ARE:

Airman of the Year, LAC Luke Burns.Photo: FSGT Benjamin Wright

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ABOUT 140 Defence personnel and family members marched as part of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on Oxford Street on March 5.

SQNLDR Vince Chong and SQNLDR Catherine Humphries were among the proud marchers.

“It’s a win for Defence when people see Defence supporting diversity in the Mardi Gras parade,” SQNLDR Chong said.

“When people can be comfortable being them-selves at work, they contribute more to capability.

“There’s no downside to being more inclusive and respectful to your team mates.”

SQNLDR Humphries, a Defence LGBTI Service board member and ground defence officer, felt hon-oured to lead the Air Force in the parade this year.

“I am proud of our diverse and inclusive ADF and, as a straight ally to our LGB members and in recog-nition of my own journey through intersex and gen-der issues, I believe we need to clearly and publicly demonstrate that acceptance so that we continue to become a stronger force together,” she said.

The head of the Sexual Misconduct, Prevention and Response unit, CAPT Christine Clarke command-ed the ADF contingent.

Marching to the beat of diversity

The Air Force contingent marches over the Oxford Street rainbow during the Mardi Gras Parade in Sydney. Photo: ABIS Nicolas Gonzalez

Our facegets a lift FLTLT Kellee Rollston

IT WASN’T a usual sight at Canberra Airport early on March 11 as CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies launched Air Force’s new and striking hot air bal-loon in Canberra.

The new version is nothing like its older counterpart.

It has been designed in the shape of a fighter pilot’s helmet, visor, oxygen mask and oxygen hose.

Constructed from 1574 panels, the balloon has a unique design that it is hoped will attract interest from schools and the public, and pique a fundamen-tal interest in science and technology.

AIRMSHL Davies said the Air Force Balloon had been extremely popular among young and old for the past 25 years.

“This is the only aviation asset in the Air Force fleet that every Australian has the opportunity to view, touch and, more importantly, go flying in,” AIRMSHL Davies said.

“Most of our aircraft can only be viewed in locations where there is a runway to land, or at an air show, and with appropriate security safeguards.

“However, the balloon can travel to

regional and remote communities with open spaces – no runway required.

“The balloon is a critical part of letting Australians know about us, and having a first-hand, up-close and per-sonal experience with us.

“In its time the balloon has been to a range of remote Indigenous com-munities that have never seen military aircraft, and has visited remote schools to deliver science and technology edu-cation programs.

“The value of these interactions, for a relatively small operating cost to Air Force, especially in such small and remote communities, cannot be under-estimated.”

The balloon was designed and manufactured by UK-based company Cameron Balloons.

Its individual panels are superim-posed with silhouetted images of fast jets and other graphics, such as the Air Force logo and website.

The balloon will visit communi-ties around Australia often, offering flight displays, tethered rides for the public and school visits in which Air Force balloon personnel will deliver aviation-related education programs.

Bringing her own style and passion

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies presents AVM Cath Roberts with her promotion certificate. Photos: FSGT Kev Berriman

LS Jayson Tufrey

DIVERSITY is the key to capability, according to the new head of Aerospace Systems Division (ASD).

As she took the reins of ASD at a pro-motion ceremony at Russell Offices on March 11, AVM Cath Roberts said she had a diverse team that was new to Defence but growing strongly.

“They provide me with inspiration and insight, which will remain a real focus for me,” she said.

As head ASD, AVM Roberts will over-see the acquisition and through-life sup-port of aerospace systems for the ADF.

During the ceremony, CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies placed the shiny, new rank slides on her epaulettes and said promo-tions like these were important.

“We all get excited by promotions, and the level of banter and chit-chat before this ceremony is a sign of this in its own right,” he said.

AVM Roberts acknowledged the good

work done by her predecessor, AVM Leigh Gordon.

“I have big shoes to fill in assuming this role, and I appreciate the direction that has been set,” she said.

“I am eagerly anticipating moving for-ward and continuing the excellence that ASD has shown in delivering aircraft acquisition and sustainment for Air Force.”

AVM Roberts said her 33 years felt like they had gone in the blink of an eye.

“When I joined the Air Force I wasn’t sure of what sort of a fighting force it was.Today we have an Air Force with opera-tional capabilities and I have been lucky enough to have been part of many incred-ible teams that have helped to make that Air Force,” she said.

AVM Roberts said she hoped to bring her own style, passion and drive to ASD.

“I am 100 per cent committed to deliv-ering capability for Air Force and both leading and looking after our people,” she said.

The eye-catching new balloon flies over Canberra during the city’s balloon festival. Photo: SGT Pete Gammie

AIR Force nominations are sought for the inaugural Public Sector Innovation Awards.

Individuals, work units, groups or teams can nominate initiatives from small projects with local impact to large projects with an impact across the service, the Defence organisation or beyond.

The four categories are:l Innovative Solutions – taking an idea

and trying something different;l Engaging with the Edge – engaging

radical approaches;l Culture and Practice – engaging and

empowering staff; andl Digital Transformation – digital, online

and technology.Nominations close on April 15 and win-

ners will be announced during Innovation Month in July.

For information on the awards visit www.act.ipaa.org.au/innovation-awards.

Copies of nominations can be sent to [email protected].

Innovate and nominate

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FLTLT Angus Wheeler of No. 11 Squadron couldn’t be happier to become one of Air Force’s first pilots to be trained to fly the P-8A Poseidon.

“It is the most exciting opportunity in the world,” FLTLT Wheeler said.

In May, he’ll begin a seven-month conversion on the P-8A Poseidon in Jacksonville, Florida.

Meanwhile, he and another 77 members of 11SQN took part in the tri-nation Exercise Ocean Explorer 16.

The exercise was part of a fleet concentration period conducted in and above the waters off Western Australia.

Missions were conducted from RAAF Base Pearce by AP-3C Orions from the RAAF and Royal New Zealand Air Force, as well as a US Navy P-8A Poseidon.

The three-week exercise included RAN surface vessels and submarines.

SQNLDR John Moorcroft, of 11SQN, said the exercise was a suc-cess.

“Our aim is to be as ‘common’ as possible so we can work seamlessly with our allies,” he said.

“Crew from three different aircraft had not met before this exercise and came together, operated together and executed their tasks extremely well,” he said.

This was a sentiment echoed by exercise partners US and New Zealand.

US Navy Commander and P-8A

pilot Dan Boman said they all enjoyed the exercise.

“It is also important to keep up the good working relations in the region,” he said.

CO Royal New Zealand Air Force No. 5 Squadron WGCDR Daniel Hunt said the US, Australia and New Zealand training together assisted with future deployments and exercises.

“This was borne out with the search for Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370 and counter-piracy operations conducted in the Middle East. It makes those operations easy because we work together well,” he said.

Australia has aircrew training on the P-8A with the US Navy, ahead of the aircraft’s introduction into the RAAF fleet.

Based on the Boeing B737, the P-8A is built from the ground up as a military aircraft, designed by the US Navy to dominate in the anti-subma-rine warfare role.

Under the Defence White Paper, 15 P-8A Poseidon aircraft will be acquired for Air Force. The first air-craft will be delivered in 2017, with eight aircraft fully operational by 2021. These new aircraft will be based at RAAF Base Edinburgh.

The P8-A is a fundamental element of Australia’s future maritime patrol and response strategy in replacing the AP-3C Orion fleet.

Effective joint training5March 24, 2016RCEAIR F News

Top, US Navy pilot LEUT Tyler Terronez with FLTLT Angus Wheeler in a P-8A. Left, US Navy P-8A CO Dan Boman (centre) with SQNLDR John Moorcroft (left) and RNZAF

WGCDR Daniel Hunt in front of a US Navy P-8A at RAAF Base Pearce. Photos: CPOIS Damian Pawlenko

P-8A Poseidon offers a unique opportunity for one of our pilots, SQNLDR Gavin Briggs reports

Watch the video at http://video.airforce.gov.au/play/4567#ooid=dlNzF4MTE66YvfZEvxcxiLoFX0Qd7yQV

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INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the eco-nomic, political and social achieve-ments of women.

This year, Defence aligned its celebrations with the UN Women Australia theme of Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step It Up for Gender Equal-ity and the International Women’s Day 2016 global campaign theme of Pledge for Parity.

Defence members are encour-aged to make the Pledge for Parity by visiting www.internationalwo-mensday.com. You can print the pledge and display in it in your workplace.

Both men and women can pledge to take a concrete step to help achieve gender parity more quickly, whether by helping women and girls achieve their ambitions, calling for gender-balanced leader-ship, respecting and valuing differ-ence, developing more inclusive and flexible cultures or removing workplace bias.

The World Economic Forum has predicted that it will take until 2133 to achieve global gender parity.

Participants in a flight camp for young women at RAAF Base Amberley visit the Security and Fire School Puppy Development dogs at the base. The participants came from Queensland, NSW, Victoria and the ACT for the camp, which ran from March 7-10. They got a taste of Air Force life and took part in the Women’s Integrated Networking Group’s breakfast at the officers’ mess. Photo: LACW Casey Gaul

THE UN’s themes of courage and hope for women this year were evident at International Women’s Day events attend-ed by Air Force members around the country in early March.

In Brisbane, WOFF Bernadette Small, from RAAF Base Amberley, and Reservist FSGT Nicole McKelvie, from HQAC, mixed with Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, community leaders and other ADF members from South-East Queensland at a UN Women’s National Committee breakfast at the Brisbane Convention Centre.

WOFF Small said it was “empower-ing and exciting to see so much passion in society, with community leaders will-ing to support women and the challenges they face”.

The Amberley base hosted its own event, as i ts Women’s Integrated Networking Group held a breakfast at the officers’ mess on March 8.

SADFO Amberley AIRCDRE Scott Winchester was the keynote speaker at the breakfast. He discussed the UN’s res-olution on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), and outlined what Air Force and Combat Support Group specifically are doing in that area.

“Defence needs to better understand different gender perspectives, how WPS factors shape contemporary armed con-flict and humanitarian assistance dis-aster relief activities to then obtain the best operational effect we can achieve,” AIRCDRE Winchester said.

Event organiser FLTLT Shamsa Lea said support for the event had been over-whelming.

“I initially thought it may just be a few of us having a morning cup of tea together at the mess. However, we had more than 160 members from across the base respond to the invitation, which is just outstanding and makes me proud of our Air Force,” FLTLT Lea said.

RAAF Base Glenbrook celebrated the day with a morning tea during which WOFF Trish Firth and WGCDRs Fleur James and Julie Hackett shared poign-ant stories about their experiences in Australia and on deployments.

“We still have some way to go in Australia. But what we experience is nothing like the restrictions and dis-crimination that women and girls face in countries where I have deployed as a member of Air Force, such as Somalia and Afghanistan,” WGCDR James said.

WGCDR Hackett said women in countries such as Afghanistan and Iraq had limited access to education and employment.

“They can be ostracised by their fami-lies for wanting a better life for them-selves,” she said.

“More than half the women and girls of the world still don’t have a right to vote or laws to protect them from vio-lence.”

In Sydney, FLTLT Jessica Aldred from RAAF Base Richmond joined more than 2000 other attendees for break-fast, along with Governor-General Peter Cosgrove and NSW Governor David Hurley.

“The event was truly inspiring with great discussions about the courage it will take to achieve parity and the hope for a future free from violence,” FLTLT Aldred said.

In Canberra, ministerial liaison officer Hannah Wandel, from AFHQ, partici-pated in the UN Women’s Breakfast at a sell-out event with representatives from Defence, and the not-for-profit and public sectors.

“There were great conversations on gender equality, focusing on the empow-erment of women and combating domes-tic violence within the Pacific region,” she said.

More than a cuppaBreakfasts and morning teas around the bases become occasions to promote parity for women around the world

Sometimes, it’s a dog’s life

Above, AIRCDRE Scott Winchester

speaks at the breakfast at Amberley

for International Women’s Day.

Right, Queensland Premier Annastacia

Palaszczuk with WOFF Bernadette

Small (left) and FSGT Nicole McKelvie at the UN women’s breakfast

in Brisbane.

Above, women’s issues were on the table during a breakfast to celebrate International Women’s Day at RAAF Base Amberley. Photos: CPL Jessica de Rouw

COVERING ALL BASES

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CPL Bill Solomou

SQNLDR Samantha Freebairn, of No. 36 Squadron, has been selected as a 2016 Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum.

Each year the World Economic Forum recognises the achievements of distin-guished leaders under the age of 40 from around the world.

SQNLDR Freebairn’s selection is in recognition for her professional accom-plishments within Air Force, specifically her lead role in improving career paths for women.

She said women entering military avia-tion had to overcome the barrier of per-ceptions that women shouldn’t be in the military.

“By targeting the kind of women we want to be our pilots we can even out the playing field,” she said.

“Generally, they are older and have an established support network and have already had an exposure to aviation.

“We are succeeding. We have doubled the number of women pilots in the Air Force in the past two years. We now make up 4 per cent.”

SQNLDR Freebairn has undertak-en research that reveals girls and boys between the ages of six and 12 rule them-selves out of opportunities that society deems unsuitable.

“For young girls it’s science, engineer-

Global leadership award World Economic Forum recognises achievements of young officer

SQNLDR Samantha Freebairn on the flightline at RAAF Base Amberley. CPL Jessica de Rouw

‘By targeting the kind of women we want to be our pilots we can even out the playing field.

SQNLDR Samantha Freebairn

ing, mathematics and trades, and for boys it’s teaching and nursing and the more social roles.

“I would love to see every girl who loves rainbows study physics and under-stand how they are made,” she said.

SQNLDR Freebairn has been invited to become an active community member of the Forum of Young Global Leaders for five years.

The community forms a unique glob-al network of peers from diverse back-grounds and fields, with a highly visible opportunity to significantly influence world affairs and shape the global agenda.

SQNLDR Freebairn said she was excited about meeting like-minded people and coming up with ideas to improve the workplace for women.

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CPL Bill Solomou

THREE warrant officers who graduated from the same unit 40 years ago have received Federation Stars in a special ceremony in Canberra.

WOFFs Ross Chavasse, Kevin Leahy and Owen Smith were presented with the Federation Stars by CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies, who officiated at the rare event in Canberra on March 10.

The trio progressed through No. 30 Apprentice Intake at RAAF Base Wagga in 1976 and 40 years later are still serv-ing and still friends. All three went on to become motor transport fitters, which later became known as GSE fitters.

“That’s 120 years of service knowl-edge we have been able to use to better the Air Force,” AIRMSHL Davies said.

The WOFFs attended the ceremony with their families and were among their peers.

AIRMSHL Davies acknowledged and thanked each member for his service. He also thanked their family members.

“If it weren’t for their support, the three men would not be standing there,” AIRMSHL Davies said.

“Thanks to their families for letting these gentlemen have their careers and, selfishly from an Air Force perspec-tive, for letting them do what we have asked them to do. It is very much a team effort.”

When WOFF Chavasse first joined he believed he would still be in the Air Force 40 years on.

“I knew once I had been in for a short time that I would be in for the duration,” WOFF Chavasse said.

WOFF Leahy said 140 members joined the original intake and he was honoured to still be serving.

“We caught up for the 40th reunion early this year and it was great,” he said.

“I could not have done it without the support of my partner Sharon.”

WOFF Smith said the three of them became friends early in the course.

“Posting to Malaya was one of my greatest highlights. Deploying and doing what I have been trained to do has been fantastic,” WOFF Smith said.

He also praised his family for their support over the past 40 years, which he said had gone quickly.

Three friends serve 40 yearsWarrant officers receive Federation Stars

SEVENTY years of training excel-lence were celebrated by the RAAF School of Technical Training when a commemorative plaque and mounted C-130H propeller were unveiled at RAAF Base Wagga.

CO RAAFSTT WGCDR Chris Ellison said reaching the milestone was significant as the school’s con-tribution to Air Force had exceeded 100,000 graduates who had kept the service flying for seven decades.

“With 70 years of service, RAAFSTT has been in operation for effectively three-quarters of the Air Force’s existence,” WGCDR Ellison said.

“The school has a long and dis-tinguished history of generating air power through the training of person-nel – technical or otherwise – for all three services, a legacy it continues today by delivering confident, com-petent and capable aviation techni-cians to the field.”

WGCDR Ellison said the school had seen considerable change over 70 years and the most recent was a partnership with BAE Systems that involved a combined approach to delivering technical training to Navy, Army and Air Force personnel.

He said that, throughout its his-tory, the school had focused on set-ting the groundwork for its graduates to achieve professional mastery.

As Plan Jericho looked to trans-

Seven decades of training marked

form Air Force, maintaining the school’s positive training culture for technicians and engineers had never been more important.

The RAAFSTT formed as RAAF Ground Training School on February 4, 1946, from elements of No. 1 Engineering School and No. 1 School of Technical Training.

CO RAAFSTT WGCDR Chris Ellison and XO RAAFSTT SQNLDR Ian Thompson at the new commemorative site.

Above left, WOFF Owen Smith with Donna Cavanagh. Above, WOFF Kevin Leahy with Sharon Head.Left, WOFF Ross Chavasse with his wife Tracey (right) and family members Stacey, Aaron and grandson Spencer.

CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies presents WOFFs Kevin Leahy, Owen Smith and Ross Chavasse with Federation Stars for 40 years of service. Photos: CPL Bill Solomou

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10 March 24, 2016RCEAIR F News

Sky’s the limit for fighter

AUSTRALIA’S first F-35A pilot, SQNLDR Andrew Jackson, says it is “easy to fall into the trap of

thinking the F-35 is just another aircraft”.

“The shell of the aircraft gets it to the fight, but it’s so much more than an F/A-18 Hornet replacement. We haven’t begun to scratch the surface of the F-35 capability. There’s more information, better information, faster information – it’s a real force multiplier,” he said.

SQNLDR Jackson said pilots had to fly the aircraft differently.

“The decisions in the cockpit are based on information, train-ing and your assessment of the situation. In the F/A-18 Hornet it can be extremely challenging to build situational awareness in a dense electronic warfare battlespace. The challenge in the F-35A is less about building situational awareness and more about managing the amount of information that is available.

“Unlike the F-22, the F-35 is capable of sharing information with other aircraft over Link 16. This enables the F-35 to influ-

ence the entire battlespace, and requires pilots to focus their attention beyond the confines of their aircraft and formation. This has been a psychological shift moving from the F/A-18.

“The power of the F-35 lies in the ability for a formation to build a coherent multi-spec-tral picture using integrated onboard and shared offboard sensors. The F-35 can then share this ‘fused’ picture with other aircraft, improving force situational awareness and tacti-cal effectiveness,” he said.

A major difference with the F-35A is the integration of the pilot’s helmet into the aircraft’s system. Unlike the F/A-18 Hornets, there is no heads-up display in the cockpit. The infor-mation is projected inside the pilot’s visor.

To ensure the helmet fits perfectly and no information is missed, each pilot’s head is laser measured for fitting.

SQNLDR Jackson said the helmet felt light due to the even weight distribution, and it included night vision.

“It’s almost like being in a

Continuing a series on the F-35A Lightning II, Leigh Watson seeks a view from the cockpit on the air-craft’s much-debated capabilities

computer game. It takes some getting used to, with the helmet and the touch screens.”

He said the aircraft was not yet flying at its full potential, but its capability was obvious.

Commander of the US Air Force’s 56th Fighter Wing BRIG-GEN Scott Pleus is also excited about flying the aircraft.

“As a fighter pilot, the chance

to fly a cutting-edge aeroplane is something we all dream about. This aeroplane has amaz-ing capabilities today and we’re going to keep advancing those. It is built around computer sys-tems that don’t require hardware – they require software.

“The F-35 really brings the ability to adapt over the lifes-pan of the aeroplane – it will

continue to revolutionise fighter planes,” BRIG-GEN Pleus said.

“I find it interesting that most people who complain about the F-35 have never flown the F-35. As an F-35 pilot myself, this aer-oplane has the capabilities we need. While a fourth-generation fighter may be cost-effective, it will also be dead when it comes up against an F-35.”

SQNLDR Andrew Jackson, the first

Australian pilot to fly in the F-35A, prepares

for a training mission in Florida, US.

Photo: US Air Force

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FLTLT Michael McGirr

AIR Force KC-30A air-to-air refuel-ling aircraft operating in the Middle East region hosted US Air Force (USAF) flight surgeon MAJ Russell Tontz, along with Air Force aviation medical officer FLTLT Dan Gardon, on a mission above Iraq.

FLTLT Gardon said the flight pro-vided the two military doctors with a hands-on experience of the medical pressures faced by the aircrew onboard the world’s most advanced military air-to-air refuelling aircraft – all while operating in a war zone.

FLTLT Gardon said having a USAF flight surgeon familiar with one of their own air-to-air refuelling air-craft – the KC-10 – accompany him on a RAAF KC-30A mission would enhance coalition interoperability in aviation medicine.

“It also allows us to explore alter-nate aircrew performance support measures for incorporation into our own Services.

“For example, the RAAF Institute of Aviation Medicine is exploring the issue of stereopsis – the visual depth perception issues relating to 3D image interpretation – pertinent to KC-30A remote refuelling practices.

“Another issue is aircrew fatigue management relating to the long dura-

tion flights RAAF aircrew are current-ly conducting on operations.

“USAF aviation medicine is a world leader in stereopsis research and, through MAJ Tontz’s experience onboard the KC-30A, he was able to provide some insight into the direction of the research and how it might ben-efit RAAF aviation medical standards for KC-30A aircrew.”

Aviation medicine is a small but growing field dedicated to the practice of medicine relating to aircrew and air passengers, including aeromedical evacuation or the airborne treatment of patients on an aircraft.

MAJ Tontz said aviation medicine, was more about aircrew performance than general health as military aviators were generally a healthy population.

“Equally as important, we’re inter-ested in aircrew performance and how we can enable them to do their job to the best of their ability in a potentially hostile physiological environment.

“Each aircraft type imposes its own health and performance stresses on its aircrew relating to ergonomics, gravi-tational force, pressure, eye strain and fatigue, among others.”

Both doc tors a re based a t Australia’s main air operating base in the Middle East Region, also home to a large contingent of USAF personnel

and aircraft, including a fleet of USAF KC-10 air-to-air refuelling aircraft.

While still the mainstay of coali-tion air-to-air refuelling in the Middle East, the KC-10 is not as new as the RAAF KC-30A, and poses its own aviation medicine issues.

“In the case of the KC-30A and KC-10, both aircraft have similar roles in that their primary mission is refuel-ling, however, the technology in the KC-30A is more technically advanced, which brings about a range of different performance issues,” Major Tontz said.

“For example, in the USAF KC-10, the air refuelling operator sits at the back of the aircraft with direct line of sight to the receiving aircraft, while the KC-30A operator uses a remote 3D screen projection to accomplish the same task.

“We’re looking at how the human eye performs when carrying out a complex task on a 3D screen, com-pared with direct line of sight.”

MAJ Tontz, a resident in aero-space medicine and the Chief of Aerospace Medicine with the 380th Expeditionary Medical and Dental Group of the USAF, said he would like RAAF doctors to have the chance to study at the USAF School of Aviation Medicine and to themselves become residents.

USAF flight surgeon MAJ Russell Tontz (left) and aviation medical officer FLTLT Dan Gardon on an KC-30A above Iraq. Photo: CPL Ben Dempster

FLGOFF Katherine Keller

TWO Expeditionary Health Squadron (2EHS) environmental health officers have been busy conducting testing for Hexavalent Chromium (CrVI) in units at RAAF bases Williamtown, Darwin, Tindal, Edinburgh and Pearce.

CrVI refers to chemical compounds that contain the element chromium in the +6 oxidation state. It is used in textile dyes, wood preservation and as anti-cor-rosion and conversion coatings. Inhaled CrVI is recognised as a human carcino-gen.

Air Command Directive 13/2015, Assess ing Poten t ia l Hexavalen t Chromium Contamination – Workplace Testing Requirements, directs assessment of CrVI in all Air Force workplaces and 2EHS has been assisting local units by performing sampling of potentially con-taminated areas.

2EHS is dealing with a large amount of requests from local units, and this work accounts for the majority of 2EHS occupational hygiene taskings.

2EHS environmental health officer FLTLT Karen McMahon is leading the CrVI testing at Williamtown.

“Testing had been conducted in a variety of workplaces. These ranged from workshops, areas previously used for sanding, grinding and drilling of items with CrVI-based paint to radars with damaged paint and areas surround-ing potentially contaminated areas,” FLTLT McMahon said.

CrVI surface sampling is done by placing square template on the area to be tested and swiping the area inside the template with sample media. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

The aim of the sampling is prevention of potential health issues associated with CrVI exposure and to provide advice on an enduring testing and management regime.

CO 2EHS WGCDR Lara Gunn high-

Health officers keep workplaces safe

FLTLT Shannon McKiernan, tests for Hexavalent Chromium at No. 77 Squadron

Medical gainsDoctors share international perspective on flight health pressures

lighted the importance of the project.“The work undertaken on direction

of ACAUST is mutually beneficial for 2EHS and local units, in maintaining and broadening the skills of 2EHS envi-ronmental health officers, strengthening the relationships between local squad-rons, informing risk assessment and management strategies and ultimate-ly in ensuring the safety of Air Force members,”she said.

GLOBEMASTER WARMS TO WEIGHTY TASK

AIR Force has successfully flown the last in a series of proof-of-concept flights to East Antarctica in support of the Australian

Antarctic Division (AAD).S i n c e N o v e m b e r , a C - 1 7 A

Globemaster has touched down in Antarctica at Wilkins Aerodrome six times, delivering heavy lift cargo in sup-port of the Australian Antarctic program.

Over this time, Air Force moved more than 109 tonnes of machinery and cargo both in and out of Antarctica, conducted an airdrop of four heliboxes from 500 feet and simulated an emergency aeromedical evacuation.

The C-17A was also used to return 28 expeditioners and three Squirrel helicop-ters to Hobart after the icebreaker vessel Aurora Australis was damaged during a blizzard.

Testing the C-17A in these conditions was an invaluable chance for Air Force to prove the capability of the aircraft as well as Australia’s logistical and scientific capabilities in Antarctica.

Many hours went in behind the scenes to ensure the success of the C-17 flights to Antarctica.

Those involved included planners, maintainers, refuellers, and logistics and personnel support members.

Combat Support Group provided medi-cal and air movements support to the mis-sions.

A mobile air load team was stationed at the AAD in Hobart six days before the missions.

They were responsible for inspect-ing, preparing and documenting all of the cargo for each flight. The team prepared cargo pallets in addition to preparing manifests, C-17A load plans and aircraft weight and balance documentation.

A modified strategic aeromedical evacuation team consisting of a medical officer, nursing officer, an advanced medi-cal assistant, and a military critical care team comprising an anaesthetist and criti-cal care nurse from No. 3 Aeromedical

Evacuation Squadron were identified as appropriate for the trial mission.

In a simulated exercise, an intensive care patient was evacuated from Wilkins Aerodrome to Hobart to identify critical vulnerabilities associated with operating in extreme conditions.

The conditions on the ground varied between missions. Some were unseason-ably pleasant, with a temperature of seven degrees, sunshine and no wind, while on other days, the temperature was minus-10 degrees with gusty winds.

The mobile air load team was well-prepared, having undertaken basic extreme cold weather training at Mt Hotham before the missions.

While there was no official prepara-tion or training for the medical team, it conducted research of conditions and team discussions, and sought advice from spe-cialists.

The AAD also gave the team a medi-cal brief, providing information about the bases and facilities the division operates in Antarctica, including insight into the con-ditions and environment to be expected on arrival at Wilkins air base.

Both teams experienced the challenges of operating on the slippery ice.

SGT Eric Boyles was in charge of the mobile air load team for the second mis-sion.

“Seeing the blue ice and knowing you have done something few people will ever have the opportunity to do was a highlight for me,” he said.

“It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportu-nity that made the extremely long flight worthwhile.”

FSGT Glenn White was in charge of the mobile air load team on the first flight.

“The mobile air load team was split into two teams when it arrived at Wilkins Aerodrome,” he said.

“CPL Ben Struber led a team of three to build cargo pallets for the return flight to Australia.

“The cargo was in the open and when we first arrived it was quite windy,

extremely cold and the conditions were very challenging.

“That team took almost two hours to build four pallets of cargo. That would normally take less than an hour.

“Myself and a colleague unloaded the aircraft, which comprised a CAT skid steer vehicle, six pallets and some floor loaded cargo. As soon as we had unloaded the aircraft we were re-configuring the aircraft to start loading the pallets for the return flight to Australia.

“Although it was extremely cold and we were hampered by our gloves and cold weather clothing, we still got quite hot and at times removed different layers of clothing.”

The unique challenges of the envi-ronment for the medical team included considering the effects of temperature on patients, equipment and pharmaceuticals.

Patient transport from the Wilkins Aerodrome medical facility to the aircraft was also a challenge, as was identifying the best location to provide pre-flight care.

SQNLDR Jason Lynam was OIC of the medical team on the first mission.

“I had a brilliant time and a fantas-tic experience working with professional Air Force members and the AAD medical crews who live and breathe Antarctica,” SQNLDR Lynam said.

“Learning about the current research platforms and gaining a greater under-standing of the environment of Antarctica and how to treat and assess patients that could potentially arise for AME was of great benefit for the Air Force.

“I would definitely go again. It was an awesome opportunity and experience. The whole team enjoyed interacting with the AAD and gained benefits while learning about the impacts of working in these cold and austere environments.

“Going somewhere new and seeing the pristine white ice was amazing.”

Results from the series of flights will be considered by the AAD and the ADF. There are no commitments by either AAD or Air Force to undertake future flights.

FLTLT Shane Donnelly

THE first Australian airdrop from an Air Force C-17A Globemaster to the Antarctic continent was performed on February 10.

Four heliboxes containing sample loads were dropped from the C-17A to AAD staff on the ground.

OC No. 86 Wing GPCAPT Adam Williams said the airdrop proved a capability to deliver small, high value or urgent stores to Australia’s Antarctic Territories and was the first step to being able to deliver larger packages.

“There are very few suitable runways in Antarctic for the C-17A. If we cannot land due to bad weather or unsuitable runway surface, being able to air-drop equipment ensures a lasting chain of supply.”

A helibox is a small disposa-ble airdrop system with flaps that cause it to spin when dispatched from the aircraft.

It can carry about 6.5kg of stores including liquids, food and essential medical supplies.

FIRST ANTARCTIC AIRDROP

SGT Eric Boyles (centre) leads the Combat Support Group mobile air load team, including LACW Karly

Bayley and LAC Jackson Wood, during palletisation of cargo due for transport. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

Left, a No. 3 Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron team tends to a simulated patient during a training mission to Antarctica on board a C-17A Globemaster. Photo: CPL David Said

No. 3 Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron team and AAD medical staff with a C-17A Globemaster on the ice at Wilkins Aerodrome. Photo: CPL David Said

A member of No. 36 Squadron greets AAD

personnel from the ramp of a C-17A Globemaster at

Wilkins Aerodrome. Photo: CPL David Said

CPL Ben Struber and LAC Tyler Robertson, of the Combat Support Group mobile air load team, check the centre of gravity distance on a CAT Challenger due for transport to Antarctica by a C-17A. Photo: CPL Craig Barrett

FLTLT Shane Donnelly

A UNIQUE mission was complet-ed by a C-17A Globemaster from No. 36 Squadron on February 9 in support of the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD).

The flight was the fourth in the series of planned concept flights.

The C-17A from RAAF Base Amberley carried a CAT297C multi-terrain loader purchased by the AAD for the upkeep of the stations.

The 4.3-tonne loader was flown from Hobart International Airport to Wilkins Aerodrome in Antarctica along with other stores and person-nel.

The Air Movements Training and Development Unit (AMTDU) had to certify the CAT297C as a cleared load so it could travel on the C-17A.

AMTDU is the Defence centre of expertise for assessment and cer-tification of any load carried in ADF aircraft to ensure it is safely and effectively restrained for transporta-tion.

CO AMTDU WGCDR Matthew Hetherington said the unit was

tasked to provide short-notice engi-neering and load clearance work to confirm the tractor could be safely and securely transported to Wilkins Aerodrome.

“Two specialists travelled to Tasmania to conduct engineer-ing assessment and identify suit-able load attachment points to tie the CAT297C to the aircraft floor,” WGCDR Hetherington said.

“They then designed and con-structed a ‘load restraint pattern’ for the journey to Antarctica.

“In the event of an emergency or any sort of turbulence in flight the load has to be restrained to at least three times it weight to minimise the chance of injury to crew or person-nel.”

FLTLT Richard Perrin, an aerial delivery engineer at AMTDU and one of the specialists who travelled to Tasmania to clear the load, said loading the CAT297C was a distinct challenge.

“The CAT297C was not designed with air transport in mind, so there were a number of challenges to clear the load,” FLTLT Perrin said.

“Calculating the centre of gravity was not straightforward because the vehicle is tracked and doesn’t have individual road wheels.

“Apart from finding the cen-tre of gravity, I was originally hop-ing to restrain the vehicle using the road transport attachment points, but when we arrived we found they weren’t suitable.

“We had to think laterally and quickly find some alternatives.

“These new points weren’t rated to aviation standard, so we had to assess their structural capacity on the spot and come up with practical solutions.

“Working closely with the crew we successfully came up with a restraint pattern that met mini-mum requirements and the aircraft was able to depart with the load on board.”

Through the efforts of the AMTDU team working behind the scenes, the successful delivery of the CAT297C further demonstrated the ability and potential of the C-17A in supporting the AAD in the future.

Cold is only a temporary discomfort as C-17A proves its potential by helping with the heavy lifting in Antarctica, FLTLT Sacha Mondon and FLTLT Kellee Rollston report

12 13RCEAIR FCentrepiece March 24, 2016

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FLGOFF Shane Ivimey

AIR Force units from RAAF Base Edinburgh stole the show at the Clipsal 500 V8 supercar event held between March 3-6 in Adelaide.

Clipsal 500 is Air Force’s premier community engagement event for South Australia. More than 200,000 people walked through the Clipsal doors to experience a taste of what Air Force offers.

AC Harry Lumsden, of the Air Warfare Centre, enjoyed being part of the big event.

“I particularly enjoyed interacting with members of the public and show-ing them aspects of what happens at RAAF Base Edinburgh,” he said.

CDR AWC AIRCDRE Stephen Meredith said community engagement was an important part of the event.

AIRCDRE Meredith said he was proud of the large presence the base had at the event.

“I am happy we were able to give something back to the South Australian community, who sup-

port Air Force so well,” AIRCDRE Meredith said.

“The flying display is always a crowd favourite and I am happy that we were able to provide the commu-nity with such an impressive and well received display.”

Crowds enjoyed the chance to be air intelligence analysts by using the 3D mapping software from No. 87 Squadron.

Air Warfare Engineering Squadron provided an exciting munitions display and 92 Wing captivated the crowd by allowing people to operate the Star Sapphire forward looking infrared camera.

No. 3 Security Forces Squadron was popular as it showcased a num-ber of small-calibre firearms and two vehicles.

The Roulettes conducted aerobatic displays, and an F/A-18 Hornet from 2OCU conducted two flying displays and a fast-jet salute during the national anthem to mark the start of the main race.

Tuning to V8 appeal

Above, FLTLT Lincoln Watts, of No. 2 Expeditionary Health Squadron, shows twins, Alina and Sophie, first aid at Air Force’s tent at Clipsal 500 in Adelaide.

Left, LAC Darren Burns, of No. 92 Wing Aircraft Life Support Fitter, adjusts a helmet on Pouria Aryan.Photos: CPL Craig Barrett

A show of force at Clipsal 500 in AdelaideWHAT books have influenced your understanding and applica-tion of air power?

The Air Force’s Air Power Development Centre (APDC) is seeking input from readers for the 2016 Chief of Air Force’s reading list.

Director APDC GPCAPT Mark Green (pictured) said: “Whether it’s a book on leader-ship, air war history, warfight-ing principles or a fictional air combat novel – we would like to know what has been read.”

Book titles may or may not already have been included in previous CAF reading lists.

If you would like to recom-mend books, contact the APDC at [email protected]. Provide book details and a brief outline (up to 200 original words) of how each book affected you. Please include your work posi-tion details for acknowledge-ment.

Power of the pen

4 Squadron Combat Control

APPLICATIONS FOR 2016NOW OPEN

More information is available athttp://intranet.defence.gov.au/raafweb/Sites/4SQN

Suitability screening will be conducted at RAAF Base Williamtown overthe period 06-10 June 2016

Applications via EOI will close 02 May [email protected]

INTEGRATE, SYNCHRONISE AND CONTROL AIRPOWER AT THETACTICAL LEVEL TO ENABLE THE EXECUTION OF PRECISON STRIKE

AND ADVANCE FORCE OPERATIONS


FOR the f i r s t t ime , pe r son-nel at HQJOC have an Air Force Commanding Officer.

During the transfer of author-ity ceremony on February 1, exiting Commanding Officer HQJOC CMDR Nick Tate handed the weight to WGCDR Lesley Carney, who assumed command responsibilities for person-nel and facilities support on behalf of CJOPS.

CMDR Tate, a maritime logistics officer, said he loved his time as the first CO HQJOC because the role focused on people and the facility, and directly affected support to operations.

“In reality, I was responsible for a $42 million-a-year facility and sup-port to people. It is a job where I sup-

port people who directly impact opera-tions,” CMDR Tate said.

“Last year we implemented the new base operations functions to sup-port the General John Baker Complex (GJBC) and HQJOC specifically.

“As the pace of activity can surge during operations, this construct now better supports our people to more effectively do their jobs.”

Formerly the Director Coordination role, the CO HQJOC is one of three triservice shore-based command posi-tions, the others being ADFA and the Federation Guard.

WGCDR Carney, who has worked in tri-service positions in the past, said she was looking forward to her first command posting and the challenge of

continuing to improve the services the team provided.

“It will be a busy role focused on people. In reality I have functional command of more than 600 personnel from the three services, as well as base support functions at three HQJOC locations,” WGCDR Carney said.

VADM David Johnston, CJOPS, said the CO HQJOC was critical in managing complex relationships with multiple Defence and contractor agen-cies on his behalf.

“The role has prime responsibil-ity for the operational facilities at the GJBC, a key capability in the support of world-wide operations and exer-cises,” he said.

A NEW commander was welcomed to Air Force Training Group at RAAF Base Williams with a handover cer-emony at Point Cook on February 29.

AIRCDRE Geoffrey Harland took over from GPCAPT Terence Deeth.

In an Air Force Museum hangar surrounded by jets, he said he was happy to be stepping in.

“AFTG is an incredibly influen-tial organisation. People come to Air Force from civilian life and we are the

first touch point for those people and responsible for getting their training right in terms of technical expertise and attitudes.”

After 3 ½ years at AFTG, GPCAPT Deeth said he achieved the two goals he set for himself on his arrival.

“I wanted Headquarters AFTG to be relevant and value-add and I wanted the FEG to be a better place. And, on assessment, I believe we have achieved those two goals.

“I wish to thank each and every member of the FEG for your support and the work you have done over the past 3 ½ years, especially in the good work you do daily in what I think is the best FEG in the Air Force,” GPCAPT Deeth said.

OC Ground Tra in ing Wing GPCAPT Geoffrey Kimmins will fill the Commander’s position temporarily while AIRCDRE Harland completes post-deployment leave.

Taking the lead at JOCCommanding officer the first to fly Air Force colours

New commander steps in

AIRCDRE Geoffrey Harland, middle, with, from left, GPCAPT Mark McCallum, GPCAPT Peter Cluff, GPCAPT Terence Deeth, GPCAPT Geoff Kimmins, GPCAPT Ross Jones and Adrian Xavier.

Exiting CO CMDR Nick Tate hands the weight to new CO HQJOC WGCDR Lesley Carney. Photo: CPL Bill Solomou

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FeatureRCEAIR F March 24, 2016 17

AN ACT of bravery that earnt Allan Sparkes the highest civilian recognition also took him to some of the lowest

points in his life.He shared some of the lessons he

learnt from these lows during a visit to RAAF Base Richmond late last month.

Mr Sparkes was awarded the Cross of Valour, the civilian version of the Victoria Cross, in 1998 for rescuing a child from a flooded underground stormwater drain in Coffs Harbour in 1996.

He is one of only five recipients of the highest civilian bravery award.

His actions left psychological scars, however, and Mr Sparkes now uses his experience with post-traumat-ic stress disorder (PTSD) to promote resilience and positive mental health.

He led an open forum during his visit to the Richmond base, discussing ongoing efforts to remove the stigma of mental health issues.

“It is essential that agencies whose

people are exposed to high levels of stress, pressure and possibly trauma adopt a proactive approach to mental wellness,” Mr Sparkes said

“It is heartening to see the approach taken by the ADF in this regard. It is never too early to start these discussions and I applaud Defence and staff at Richmond Air Base for their efforts to help our nation’s frontline.”

The event was a launching pad for many workplace discussions about the steps people can take to improve their own understanding of the subject.

Mr Sparkes spoke of his own con-fronting thoughts, describing his deci-sion to take his own life and what stopped him in those final moments.

He has recounted these experiences in his book The Cost of Bravery.

LACW Nicole Beames, a person-nel capability specialist with No. 37 Squadron, said Mr Sparkes’ words and experiences would help her manage her own physical and mental health.

“I got so much out of meeting him and hearing his story,” she said.

“I will be recommending his book to others I know who might be strug-gling, or know of people who are.”

As a Soldier On ambassador, Mr Sparkes toured the base to gain a bet-ter understanding of the stresses and strains experienced in the military.

CO 37SQN WGCDR Matthew Cooper led him on a tour of the unit.

“It was an absolute pleasure to host Allan as a small token of our thanks for an engaging, emotive and inspi-rational presentation on his mental health journey,” WGCDR Cooper said.

“He was very interested in the work that we do.”

Units at Richmond are often deployed abroad at short notice and for long periods, placing stress on person-nel and family members.

“It was indeed topical given the support we have committed to Fiji in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Winston,” WGCDR Cooper said.

Ground Liaison Officer 37SQN CAPT Ian Carter organised Mr Sparkes’ visit to Richmond.

“Allan is living proof that there is life after a suicide attempt,” CAPT Carter said.

“The importance of having him visit and present is immense. Sharing lived experiences goes a long way to removing the stigma of mental health issues and provides positive examples for those experiencing difficulties.

“If today has helped only one per-son gain a better understanding of what they, a friend and/or loved one is going through then I consider it a great success.”

Mr Sparkes is participating in a charity trek to raise funds to bring indigenous leaders from remote com-munities to the 2016 National Suicide Prevention Conference.

Donations to this cause can be made through https://trek4spa.everydayhero.com/au/allan-sparkes-cv.

Back from the dark sideValuable lessons are learnt from one man’s brush with the downside of bravery

Left, firefighter LAC Matthew Shore, from No. 25 Squadron, takes Allan Sparkes down the Richmond runway in a Panther fire truck; and, above, Mr Sparkes hangs around in a parachute harness. Photos: CPL David Gibbs

IN A colourful career spanning close to 40 years, WGCDR Mark Paterson (pic-tured) has filled an enviable diversity of postings across Australia and abroad.

He joined the Air Force in 1977 as a CAT2B/T before remustering to clerk supply. During his posting to No 3 RAAF Hospital at Richmond, WGCDR Paterson changed to hygiene inspector in 1982 and commissioned in 1985 as an environmental health officer.

Among his many postings was a stint with the Australian Contingent Multinational Force and Observers in the Sinai.

Out of category, he has fulfilled the roles of Deputy Director International Engagement – Air Force, SO1 Exercise Management at HQJOC and XO 96 Wing within CSG.

During a secondary appointment at RAAF Base Amberley from 1989 to 1991, WGCDR Paterson was involved with rescuing koalas on the base, and monitoring koala movements.

He says some people still, with a smile, remind him about his role as the Koala Liaison Officer.

WGCDR Paterson transferred to the RAAF Active Reserves in December 2014 and says he now enjoys a rural lifestyle, gardening, tending cattle and chickens, and travelling, with his wife, Lindsay, on his property in the Noosa hinterland.

A winding road to Noosa

For anyone who feels they need help, or is worried about a friend or colleague, the following services can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week:

Beyond Blue (support service support, advice, action line)1300 22 46 36

Suicide Call-back Service 1300 659 467

Lifeline 13 11 14

Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service 1800 011 046

WHERE TO FIND HELP

Defending Australia and its National Interestswww.defence.gov.au

FUNDAMENTALINPUTS TOCAPABILITY

The Defence and Industry Conferencecontinues to be a key event for Defence andindustry collaboration.The Government has a clear intent to reset andtransform the Defence and industry relationship. Usingthis intent, and acknowledging industry as a fundamentalinput to capability, the 2016 conference will focuson delegate involvement with concise and thought-provoking presentations, Q&A panel sessions andinteractive feedback on key topics.

With a renewed focus on efficiency and relevance, thiswill be a highly affordable, practical and productiveconference.

For more information about the conference, including theevent program and how to register, visit our websitewww.defence.gov.au/casg/DplusI/

CANBERRA CONVENTION CENTRE – 15 JUNE

Training RCEAIR F March 24, 201618

Students show their classExercise Southern Sunrise a spectacle from ground and air

Students from No. 243 Advanced Pilots

Course in formation at Albany Airport.

FLTLT Bruce Chalmers

EIGHTEEN students from No. 243 Advanced Pilots Course have shone in the air and on the ground during Exercise Southern Sunrise.

The exercise, conducted at Albany, Western Australia, during away-based flight training between February 21 and March 4, attracted great interest in the area as residents were able to observe Air Force flying operations from Albany Airport.

New Zealand Air Force train-ee PLTOFF Anna O’Callaghan, of the Officer Training School, was impressed with the opportunities afforded by the deployment.

“Flying every day in a new envi-ronment has been a highlight.

“There are so many students on the course and we all get to learn from each other, as well as from our instruc-tors, with an opportunity to pass on some of our learning to each other as well,” she said.

Exercise Southern Sunrise provid-ed the students with a taste of deploy-ing in Air Force.

“To make it even better, the weath-er at Albany has been different from RAAF Base Pearce and that has made the flying experience more excit-

ing from a learning point of view,” PLTOFF O’Callaghan said.

Locals had the opportunity to observe flying operations of the pilots’ course, as did some young people with a vested interest.

Air Force cadets from No. 705 Squadron (City of Albany) were able

to inspect aircraft and speak with pilots and ground crew during the deployment.

The exercise covered curriculum sorties, exercised deployment, rede-ployment and away-based training. It also fostered staff and student rapport in the deployed environment.

Formations of up to four aircraft were seen near the airport and the city centre as they departed and positioned for return to the airfield.

Most flight training operations were conducted above 5000 feet and away from built-up areas, to mini-mise any impact on the community.

No. 2 Flight Training School trains pilots to the highest standard in the Pilatus PC-9A aircraft to undertake operational conversion on selected ADF aircraft types after graduation.

It qualifies flying instructors for employment in ADF operational con-version units and flying squadrons.

DASMThe DASM deals exclusively with aviation safety and is the primereference source for aviation safety in Defence. It details the DefenceAviation Safety Management System (ASMS) and clearly delineatesbetween what is policy and what is guidance.

The release of AL4 covers changes to the Aviation Risk Managementprocess with the introduction of the So Far As Is Reasonably Practicable(SFARP) process.

AL4 also sees changes to the Fatigue Management chapter; amendments dueto organisational changes within DDAAFS; and updates to all areas related toComcare and Workplace Health and Safety notification and reporting. To learn

more visit: http://intranet.dpo.mil.au/avpubs/aaplib/6734_001/AAP6734_001.pdf

Defence Aviation Safety Manual

NEW RELEASEAL4

AIR MARSHAL GN DAVIES, AO, CSCDEFENCE AVIATION AUTHORITY

AIR FORCE SAFET

Y

DEFE

NCE AVIATION

DDAAFS

RISK LEVELS AND DEFINITIONS

LIKELIHOODDESCRIPTOR FORSYSTEM CONTEXT:

DESCRIPTOR FORACTIVITY CONTEXT:

5 ALMOSTCERTAIN

• Expected to occur several times a yearor often during the system life cycle.

• Is known to occur frequently in similarsystems being used in the same role andoperating environment.

• Expected to occur during the plannedactivity.

• Is known to occur frequently in similaractivities.

4 PROBABLE

• Expected to occur one or more timesper year or several times in the systemlife cycle.

• Is known to have occurred previously, butis not certain to occur.

• Expected to occur in most circumstances,but is not certain.

• Is known to have occurred previously insimilar activities.

3 OCCASIONAL• Expected to occur less than onceper year or infrequently during systemlife cycle.

• Not expected to occur during the plannedactivity.

• Sporadic but not uncommon.

2 IMPROBABLE• Not expected to occur, but possible toexperience one or more events duringthe system life cycle.


• Occurrence conceivable but considereduncommon.

1 RARE• Only expected to occur in rare orexceptional circumstances or no morethan once during the system life cycle.


• Occurrence conceivable but not expectedto occur.

CONSEQUENCES

LIKELIHOOD MINOR(A)

MODERATE(B)

MAJOR(C)

CRITICAL(D)

CATASTROPHIC(E)

5 ALMOST CERTAIN L (A5) M (B5) H (C5) VH (D5) VH (E5)

4 PROBABLE L (A4) M (B4) H (C4) H (D4) VH (E4)

3 OCCASIONAL VL (A3) L (B3) M (C3) H (D3) H (E3)

2 IMPROBABLE VL (A2) VL (B2) L (C2) M (D2) M (E2)

1 RARE VL (A1) VL (B1) VL (C1) L (D1) L (E1)

RISK LEVEL VL Very Low L Low M Medium H High VH Very High

CONSEQUENCE DEFINITION

MINOR (A) MODERATE (B) MAJOR (C) CRITICAL (D) CATASTROPHIC (E)

Personnel: Minor injury or illness thatis treatable in the workplace (first aid)or by a registered health practitioner,with no follow up treatment required.

Mission: Partial achievement of amission with unit/tactical implicationsbut does not affect an operationalobjective.

Capability: Temporary degradationto Defence capability provided byan aviation or core system. Indicativerepair time: less than two working days.

Reputation: Local short-term mediaattention and negative public reaction.

Financial: Associated costs less thanAU$100 000.

Environment: Any environmentaldamage repairable by natural actionless than 1 year. No rectification actionrequired.

Personnel: Injury or Illness causing nopermanent disability, which requiresnon emergency medical attention by aregistered health practitioner OR 10 ormore injuries/illnesses categorised as‘Minor’.

Mission: Failure to achieve an importantoperational objective with significant unit /tactical implications.

Capability: Temporary substantialdegradation to Defence capability providedby an aviation or core system. Indicativerepair time: 2 – 14 working days.

Reputation: Local prolonged mediaattention and negative public reaction.

Financial: Associated costs in excess ofAU$100 000 but less than AU$1 000 000.

Environment: Environmental damagerequiring remediation. Less than 3 monthsto remediate.

Personnel: Serious injury or illness requiringimmediate admission to hospital as aninpatient and/or permanent partial disabilityOR 10 or more injuries/illnesses categorised as‘Moderate’.

Mission: Failure to achieve an importantoperational objective with serious unit/tacticalimplications.

Capability: Temporary loss or temporarysevere degradation to Defence capabilityprovided by a core aviation system. Indicativerepair time: greater than 14 days but lessthan 12 months.

Reputation: Negative reaction by publicDefence interest groups and short termnational media attention.

Financial: Associated costs in excess ofAU$1 000 000 but less than AU$10 000 000.

Environment: Environmental damage requiringin excess of 3 months but less than 6 months toremediate.

Personnel: Single fatality and/or permanenttotal disability OR 10 or more injuries/illnesses categorised as ‘Major’.

Mission: Failure to achieve an essentialoperational objective with significantstrategic implications.

Capability: Long term degradation toDefence capability provided by a coreaviation system. Single aircraft loss / morethan 12 months to repair system.

Reputation: Widespread public discontentwith Defence or service, prolonged adversenational media attention or coronial inquest.

Financial: Associated costs in excess ofAU$10 000 000 but less thanAU$100 000 000.

Environment: Environmental damagerequiring in excess of 6 months but lessthan 24 months to remediate.

Personnel: Multiple fatalities OR 10 ormore injuries/illnesses categorised as‘Critical’.

Mission: Failure to achieve a missionthat is essential to a strategic objective.

Capability: Indefinite loss of Defencecapability provided by a core aviationsystem. Numerous aircraft loss or loss ofsingle asset of significant strategic value(eg AEWC). System irrepairable.

Reputation: Widespread publiccondemnation of Defence. Longterm media condemnation or formalGovernment inquiry.

Financial: Associated costs in excess ofAU$100 000 000,

Environment: Significant environmentaldamage. Irrepairable or in excess of 2years to remediate

22 Oct 15

Military aviation operations, exercises and training by theirnature must involve some level of risk to achieve success,but our planning and execution must be thorough to ensurethat risks are eliminated or minimised so far as is reasonablypracticable to achieve each mission.

19March 24, 2016RCEAIR F Personnel

CDF leadership forumTHE first of two CDF WO, SNCO and NCO leadership forums for 2016 will be held at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia, from May 11-13.

The three-day event will be addressed by Defence leaders and guest speakers facilitating interactive discussions on their leadership experi-ences, perspectives and challenges.

Guest speakers have been invited to present topics and a case study which speaks to the contemporary leadership issues in the 21st century.

Event organiser WOFF Darcy Henriksen, of the Centre for Defence Leadership and Ethics a t the Australian Defence College, said the forum gave participants the opportuni-ty to listen, question and interact with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and the Service Warrant Officers (SWOs).

“CDF ACM Mark Binskin will offer some thoughts on what he believes leadership is all about and go through a number of leadership traits which he values,” WOFF Henriksen said.

“Participants should use the forum to refine those traits and discuss and share their leadership experiences so that they continue learning.”

“Successful participants should also start thinking about leadership and what it means to them, and com-pile a list of questions for their col-leagues, the SLT and their SWO.”

More information on the leadership forums can be found at DEFGRAM 035/2016. EOIs should be processed through respective chains of command.

WHAT PREVIOUS PARTICIPANTS HAVE SAID

CDF ACM Mark Binskin inspects our future leaders on parade during the CDF’s Parade at ADFA last month. The CDF is urging WOs, SNCOs and NCOs to attend his leadership forums. Photo: John Carroll

OTHER RANKDefence Force Magistrate

1 x knowingly making a false statement in relation to an application for a benefit – DFDA s 56(1)

11 x general dishonesty – ob-taining a gain – DFDA s 61(3) and Criminal Code (Cth) s 135.1(1)The member was accused of know-ingly making a false statement in relation to an application for a service benefit. Member was also accused of doing a thing with the intention of dishonestly obtaining a gain from the Commonwealth. Member pleaded guilty to all charges and was found guilty of all the charges. Member was dis-missed from the Defence Force.

NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERDefence Force Magistrate1 x assaulting a subordinate – DFDA s 34The member was accused of assaulting a subordinate member. The member pleaded guilty to the charge and was found guilty of the charge. The member forfeited sen-iority in rank and was fined $1000 (to be paid in instalments).

All court martial and Defence Force Magistrate trial results are subject to command review and appeal. The results are of trials across the ADF.

FEBRUARY TRIAL RESULTS

“There was a great em-phasis on joint capability and taking in the bigger picture.”

“A lot of the conversa-tion was aimed at being a leader both up and down

the chain, learning more about influencing people as opposed to directing people.”

“It was the first time for most of us to share and understand each other’s

Service. The opportunity to listen, discuss and share our ideas with the SLT and SWOs was outstanding.”

“They realised that all the services have very much the same leader-

ship challenges. And the overwhelming feedback from the participants is positive.”

“We look forward to seeing you at RAAF Base Edin-burgh, SA.”

PERMANENT and Reserve Air Force personnel, from AC/W to WGCDR, will be able to influence their profes-sional career development by raising an Air Force Personnel Performance Report (PPR) for the reporting cycle October 1 to September 30.

Director Personnel – Air Force (DP-AF) GPCAPT Ken Robinson said it was critical members took responsi-bility and initiated the process.

“I reinforce CAF’s message that continuous development of our people requires both assessed members and assessors to set effective and meaning-ful goals, to conduct regular perfor-mance reviews and to provide honest and constructive feedback throughout the observation period,” he said.

“The PPR, as part of the new Personnel Performance System (PPS), will ensure personnel are developed and selected to meet the capability needs of tomorrow’s Air Force.

“Performance dimensions are now clearly linked to expected behaviours as articulated in Air Force Values and will provide sufficient, relevant and reliable information to support HR decision making.

“It is also an excellent coaching mechanism that will enhance profes-sional development in the workplace.

“The PPR will influence decisions

made about our people’s careers and all personnel should become familiar with the PPR process.”

PPS Project Manager FLTLT Justin Cox said the PPS project had three phases.

Phase 1 was the implementation of the PPR (Web Form AE 519), Phase 2 would be the implementation of Adobe Experience Manager in October, and Phase 3 aimed for PPS enhancement and analytics from October.

“With Phase 1 complete, the PPR replaced the former Performance Appraisal Report, ADF Performance Appraisal Supplementary Report and the Preliminary Review of Performance,” FLTLT Cox said.

“The Air Force Member Statement (Web Form AD 718) was also replaced by the PPR, which can convey addi-tional information not captured in reported history.

“From late April assessed mem-bers, assessors or senior asses-sors who do not have access to the DRN or DDRN can access the PPR or Air Force Member Statement from ForceNet.

“ForceNet will host both forms, which can be downloaded, or mem-bers can email either form to a home-based or offline computer and there-after interact with the form(s) via the

20 March 24, 2016RCEAIR FPersonnel

Taking career initiative

same view and inherent workflow as if logged into the DRN/DDRN. Members and their assessors can use the AE 519 or AD 718 forms com-pletely, if necessary, offline from the DRN/DDRN.

“Alternatively, either form can be sent to and from the DRN/DDRN or

an offline computer at any stage of the form workflow or the reporting period without erasure of already inputted data.”

For more information, visit http://drnet.defence.gov.au/raaf/DPAF/Promotions/Pages/PPRPPS.aspx.

A new report process ensures personnel are equipped to meet future demands

From left, CPL Kylie Bremner, FSGT Kel Sorensen and

LACW Michelle Carmona discuss the new Personnel

Performance Report process. Photo: FSGT Kev Berriman

Bowman Hall (Blacktown City Council Chambers)62 Flushcombe Road Blacktown

For all enquiries please contact Renato Cantalupo on0425 227 818 orGreg taylor - 0427 935 135

GREATER SYDNEYSCALE MODEL

EXPO

* Massive buy\sell table ( a small surcharge will be payablefor any kit sold)

* Open and formal categories for model competition -Competition is open to all - entry fee is $2 per kit -Competion entry details will be listed on our facebookPage - https://www.facebook.com/scaleexpo/

* Model and aftermarket vendors/exhibitors & book sellers & modelling tools

* Prizes for best model in categories* 3d printing display & tutorials* IPMS stand to discuss your skills & techniques* Raffle prizes that will have you clambering to grab your

wallet* Close to shops, banks, & public transport* Most of Sydney’s major modelling clubs will be in

attendanceAdmission:

$8 - adults, $3 - children, $20 - family of 4 - 2 adults and 2 children$4 -aged pensioners and serving ADF Members

(on production of card or Service ID)

Saturday 2nd April 2016 (10am to 5pm)& Sunday 3rd April 2016 (10am to 4pm)

IN COLLABORATION WITH IPMS (NSW)

21March 24, 2016RCEAIR F Flightline

Wagga Wagga Paediatrics Nursing Unit Manager Pam Rawle accepts a cheque from WOFF Andrew Halloran, FSGT Sue Sandercock, Wagga Wagga Detective SGT Phil Malligan and Detective Inspector Darren Cloake at the yearly fundraising Air Force/Police Sergeants’ dinner.

Military working dog handler ACW Tori Jackson with Saga after an annual health check on the dogs from No. 2 Security Force Squadron at RAAF Base Townsville. Photo: CPL Glen McCarthy

Armament technician FSGT Craig Meech (right), of No. 65 Squadron’s Explosive Ordnance Demolition, discusses the Talon remotely piloted vehicle and the Bushmaster protected mobility vehicle with GPCPT Peter Davis. Photo: CPL Veronica O’Hara

Above, Director-General Airlift and Tanker Systems Branch AIRCDRE Phillip Tammen is shown an 84mm rocket launcher by LAC Michal Samoraj during a visit to No. 3 Security Forces Squadron as part of the Air Force Senior Leadership Team tour of the Edinburgh Defence Precinct at RAAF Bases Edinburgh and Woomera. Photo: SGT Murray Staff

Left, FLTLT Danielle Redman, of No. 453 Squadron Richmond Flight, with a Good Show Award for identifying a crucial missing part from an aircraft. Photo: CPL Veronica O’Hara

FSGT Craig Parmenter presents an “Operational medal” to his son, Nick. FSGT Parmenter, of the Air Force Guided Weapon Systems Program Office, recently returned from a deployment on Operation Okra. Photo: SGT Pete Gammie

Right, FLGOFF Krystal Blanch celebrates her birthday by cutting the No. 75 Squadron 74th birthday cake at RAAF Base Tindal. A barbecue also took place next to the Magpie Nest, a place of remembrance for 75SQN personnel. Photo: CPL David Cotton

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NeverStand Still Science

Avoid processed foods and limit simple carbohydrates. Photo: LS Jayson Tufrey

Eat well and be merryPoor nutrition has negative impacts on both mental and physical health. Take these steps to improve your nutrition and lead a more enjoyable life, SGT Dave Morley reports

‘WE HEAR every day how bad junk food is for us, but how many of us heed the advice and really pay

attention?WSM/PTI WO2 Jayne Morley

at the Holsworthy Barracks Trainee Rehabilitation Wing said poor nutrition had several downsides.

“Poor eating habits include under- or over-eating and not having enough of the healthy foods we need each day,” WO2 Morley said.

“Poor nutrition can impair our daily health and wellbeing and reduce our ability to lead an enjoyable and active life.

“People who eat an overall healthy diet – that is one comprising lots of fresh, ‘colourful’ food in its most natural state, unprocessed and nutri-ent dense – tend to have better mental health.”

WO2 Morley said poor nutrition had several effects, both physical and mental.

“Physical effects include fluctuat-ing energy levels and alertness, food allergies, weak immune system and ill-nesses, weight fluctuations with fat gain and muscle loss, obesity, diabetes and heart disease,” she said.

“Others include hypertension, vita-min and mineral deficiencies, eating disorders and inflammation.

“Mental effects can include mood swings, depression and anxiety, con-tributing towards conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).”

WO2 Morley said the steps to good nutrition were fairly easy and self-explanatory.

Poor nutrition can impair our daily health and wellbeing and reduce our ability to lead an enjoyable and active life.

WO2 Jayne Morley

“You need to eat a majority of fresh produce, which is nutrient dense and this includes vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds and fruit,” she said.

“Limit dairy intake with its high allergy rates, limit wheat and gluten.Avoid all processed foods, colourings and preservatives and limit simple car-bohydrates like bread, pasta, cakes and biscuits.

“Soft drinks, fruits juices and cor-dial, which all have high sugar content and artificial sweeteners, should be avoided and, instead, drink lots of water.”

WO2 Morley said PTs were not qualified in dietetics and nutrition, and therefore could only provide advice to members.

“For more clinical information, it is highly recommended members be referred to [professional] providers,” she said.

General nutrition advice can be found at http://www.defence.gov.au/Health/HealthPortal/FitnessNutrition.asp.

22 March 24, 2016RCEAIR FHealth & Fitness

23March 24, 2016RCEAIR F Sp rt

THREE RAAF members were among the 30 Australian Defence Alpine Snowsports Association (ADASA) members who competed in a five-week biennial tournament against the British military, held in Austria and France.

The Air Force members were ADF ski team captain LAC Kieran Livingston, and FLTLT Aidan Watters and FLTLT Kathleen Pearce.

The ADF snowboarding team led the way, dominating the British at the RAF Snow Sports Competition in the Salzburg region of Austria and again in Meribel, France, two weeks later.

The women walked away from the snowboarding competition with six of the possible nine medals in Austria, including a gold, three silver and two bronze medals, while the men earned themselves a gold and two silver.

Events contested included super giant slalom, giant slalom and slalom for the ski team, and parallel giant sla-lom (PGS), banked slalom (BS), slope style (SS) and boarder-cross (BX) for the boarders.

The French SS course was so intense the organisers decided only five men and three women from each team could enter the qualifying, and only the top eight men and four women would qualify for the finals.

LAC Livingston, an airfield defence guard a t RAAF Base Williamtown, said he was excited when he learned of his selection in the team for the tournament.

“I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t miss. The expert training we were provided during our time in Europe was fantastic, giving us the time in gates that we all wanted and needed,” he said.

“Getting up at the crack of dawn enabled us to fit in as much time as possible on the snow. Our Austrian coach had no patience for missed tim-

AUSTRALIAN Defence Squash Racquets Association secretary SGT Melinda Boyd urged “all Defence members to get involved in sporting committees” when she was presented with a VCDF silver commendation for her dedication and service to the sport.

“If not for volunteers, a lot of the sports we play and take for granted would no longer exist,” she said.

SGT Boyd has been the association secretary for the past three years. Her role varies from organising the annual national triservice championships to assisting with visiting international defence force squash teams.

CPL Stephen Gailer, who received a VCDF bronze commendation for his selfless service, agreed with SGT Boyd that volunteering could be demanding but rewarding.

CPL Gailer was instrumental in organising the most recent national triservice championships, program-ming more than 400 matches in 13 singles and doubles events.

Both members started playing squash at an early age.

SGT Boyd has won national titles in singles and doubles.

Up at the crack of dawnNo time for late risers as skiers get down to business against the British in France and Austria

From left, Air Force ski team members FLTLT Aidan Watters, LAC Kieran Livingston and FLTLT Kathleen Pearce.

SGT Melinda Boyd accepts her commendation from CO SRG AIRCDRE Craig Heap (above) while CPL Stephen Gailer receives his commendation from CAF AIRMSHL Leo Davies.

Selfless service praised

ings. Each team member pushed them-selves to improve. It was an excellent environment in which to train.”

LAC Livingstone said the skiers held their own against the British team.

“The standard from the British is so high but our team was able to keep most of our results in the middle of the competition field,” he said.

“With the majority of ADF team

members having never competed on international ski federation world cup -length courses, let alone a downhill speed event, where the top competitors are reaching 125km/h, we were happy with our results.”

At Meribel, MAJ Katie Chapman won bronze in the PGS, AB Emma Hook won silver in the PGS and MAJ Alistair Court won gold in the SS.

The ADF team competes in Europe every two years, while the British sends a contingent to Australia in the alternate year.

ADF competitors are chosen from the ADASA competition, held in the Australian alps the previous winter.

This year’s ADASA competition will be held at Perisher from August 14-19.

The single-service championships will be held the week before.

LAC Kieran said he was looking forward to gauging his improvement against his Air Force and other ADF colleagues this winter.

For more information go to http://intranet.defence.gov.au/raafweb/sites/RASA/

THE 2016 Australian Defence Force Australian Rules National Carnival will kick off in Melbourne on April 3 and run to April 9.

The carnival will again feature an Indigenous development squad and, for the first time, Defence teams will play in a national wheelchair event, from April 6-8.

The men’s and women’s all-stars teams to play in the AFL’s Anzac round

will be selected from the carnival. The men’s game will be the curtain raiser for the Port Adelaide versus Geelong AFL fixture at Adelaide Oval, while the women will play a Victorian Women’s Football representative side in Mel-bourne.

An Indigenous team will be selected to play in the AFL’s Dreamtime Round in May and in the Koori Carnival in Bendigo, Victoria, in October.

Time to strap on the boots

SP RTMarch 24, 2016

MOUNTAIN HIGH

Snow time like the present as

skiers take on the European alps

Cheers for volunteers P23

FLTLT Kathleen Pearce tackles the slopes in the interservice snow sports championships against Britain in Meribel, France.

RCEAIR F March 24, 2016 1PLAN JERICHO

SPECIAL LIFTOUT

ENHANCING AIR‑LAND

INTEGRATION BETWEEN ARMY AND AIR FORCE

A pair of C-130J Hercules fly over a Navy Collins-class submarine. Photo: CPL David Gibbs

TEAMWORK

3RCEAIR F March 24, 2016 PLAN JERICHO2

J-MODEL RISES TO NEW WORLD OF RISKSDELIVERY

SURVIVABILITY

COMMUNICATIONS

C-130J Hercules are capitalising on greater communications capabilities, Eamon Hamilton reports

A No. 37 Squadron C-130J climbs above the clouds during a training sortie. Photo: CPL Shannon McCarthy

UPGRADES to the C-130J Hercules under Plan Jericho will change how medium airlift is tra-ditionally employed to conduct missions for Defence.

Key among these upgrades is the installation of Satellite Communications (SATCOM).

All 12 C-130Js will have SATCOM installed by April 2017, providing secure beyond line of sight voice and data communication around the globe.

The fleet is also undergoing a modification to include Link-16 capability, providing full C-130J participation in the recognised air picture during global operations.

OC No. 84 Wing GPCAPT Carl Newman said the SATCOM program had shown Plan Jericho to be a signifi-cant enabler for the C-130J.

“Plan Jericho has allowed us to accept some risks in the capability development area that we may not have in the past,” GPCAPT Newman said.

“It has also invigorated a prioritisation of those capa-bilities necessary to better integrate with the joint force and meet their requirements.”

Installation of SATCOM will allow a number of follow-on systems to be installed, capitalising on the greater com-munications capability that is available.

“The C-130J will be connected to a number of informa-tion feeds through beyond-line-of-sight communications systems including voice and data,” GPCAPT Newman said.

“That will give the crew, command and control agen-cies, and passengers real-time situational awareness of the mission status and operating environment.

“This will enable enhanced dynamic mission decision-making and increased real-time risk awareness for the joint force.”

The C-130J, like much of the wider Air Mobility Group fleet, is focused on providing Defence with an enhanced air-land integration capability under Plan Jericho.

In the past, Hercules passengers travelled to their desti-nation in a relative information vacuum, with limited access to voice communications to the outside world.

In the near future, passengers on a C-130J will travel to their destination with significantly increased access to information from the wider world.

“Our customer remains any Defence, government agen-cy or coalition element that requires a rapid force projec-tion,” GPCAPT Newman said.

“During past operations, this has typically involved units from Special Operations Command, as well as Regular Army ground forces, aero-medical evacuation teams and disaster relief agencies.

“They need real-time information while en route to enable their missions, and they will benefit from the feeds into and out of the aircraft communications systems.”

Through SATCOM, C-130J passengers will have access to secure communications networks, be able to display mis-sion information or connect with their own devices.

GPCAPT Newman said many Defence units would need to revise their concept of operations to capitalise on the C-130J’s new capabilities.

“They can develop techniques to exploit reach-back capabilities of the C-130J, allowing them to conduct mis-sion planning adjustment while en route to the mission area,” GPCAPT Newman said.

The upgrades will also fundamentally alter mission awareness for the C-130J crews and wider command and control agencies.

This includes the installation of Link-16, which is the

mainstay of Air Force battlespace networking and information sharing on operations today.

As an example, KC-30As deployed on Operation Okra can use Link-16 to seek out coalition strike aircraft that need to be refuelled, rather than waiting for receivers to come to them. This reduces the time required for strike fighters to fly away from a target area, increasing its overall contribution to the battlespace.

Combining these networking and communications tools with the C-130J’s existing airlift capability will lead the aircraft to deliver similar benefits to a joint battlespace.

“Link-16 will allow the C-130J to provide greater fidelity to a recognised air picture and common operating picture. That will require the C-130J crew and other elements in the combat space to consider how they can use this information to best support the air mobility mission.” GPCAPT Newman said.

The C-130J first entered the service in 1999, however, the current spate of upgrades are realising the full potential of the aircraft as a tactical airlifter.

“There has always been a requirement for C-130J to expand its capability to provide enhanced combat air mobility to the joint force,” GPCAPT Newman said.

“This need was hastened somewhat by the retirement of the C-130H, and with it the capabilities of that platform that the C-130J had not yet developed.

“However, the J-model now has capability that well and truly exceeds that of the legacy C-130 fleet.”

DEFENCE relies on the C-130J fleet to operate in some of the toughest environments on earth.

The C-130Js are undergoing a range of upgrades that will increase surviv-ability of the aircraft and crew in a modern battlespace.

In 2012, a radar warning receiver system was added to the C-130J, pro-viding the crew with an awareness of enemy ground and airborne radars.

In May 2016, the first C-130J to receive a large aircraft infra-red coun-termeasures system will be delivered from Lockheed Martin.

Large aircraft infra-red counter-measure protects the C-130J against infra-red guided missile, blinding the missile’s seeker head with a focused laser.

Since 2004, the C-130Js have been routinely fitted with floor armour

to protect the crew. An improved ballistic armour project will increase the surface area in a C-130J that is protected and reduce the total weight of the armour.

Finally, a loadmaster crashwor-thy seat mounted on the C-130J’s paradoors will address work health and safety deficiencies in the current seat, and provide adequate personal restraint in the event of a crash.

Eamon Hamilton

INCREASED support for land forces will come from Air Mobility Group (AMG) as it grows and shapes its capability in the coming five years.

The catalyst for this change is Plan Jericho, which includes a project for enhancing air–land integration (ALI) between Army and Air Force.

AIRCDRE Richard Lennon said enhanced ALI would see Air Force deliver greater support to land forces through building on existing capa-bilities and establishing new roles.

“ALI encompasses a broad range of interac-tions between air and land forces to achieve a designed tactical or strategic outcome,” AIRCDRE Lennon said.

“Within Air Force, that includes all core and enabling air power roles, the most common roles being offensive air support, Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance (ISR) and air mobility.”

In a battlespace, Air Force is relied upon also to provide offensive air support from its Hornets and Super Hornets, ISR from its own unmanned aerial vehicles and Orions, and air mobility through the C-27J, C-130J, KC-30A and C-17A.

Plan Jericho seeks to take joint force opera-tions to the next level with the introduction of the F-35A, EA-18G and P-8A.

Army uses a mix of rotary-wing aircraft and UAVs to also fulfil key air power roles.

“Enhancing ALI through Plan Jericho will allow us to deliver more potent joint effects than we have in the past,” AIRCDRE Lennon said.

“Coordinating all of our platforms to deliver the most potent battlefield effect sits at the heart of enhanced ALI. It will allow us to better inte-grate with Army’s combat power, integrate Air Force’s own air power effects in support of the land force commander.”

Over the next five years, AMG will work in close concert with Army to achieve the air

mobility dimension of this important change, working closely with the newly-established Air Warfare Centre.

To drive and sustain this change, AMG will undergo several organisational changes, includ-ing the creation of a dedicated network and communications team within the group.

Other proposed changes include a program for training commanders and leaders within AMG in advanced air mobility concepts outside of their employment.

“A greater emphasis on collective training between Air Force and Army will also be needed to ensure seamless operational effectiveness,” AIRCDRE Lennon said.

This training will include physical events such as Exercises Hamel and Talisman Sabre, and potentially “live, virtual, and constructive” events conducted over a network.

These changes will support a range of upgrades and new capabilities within AMG that

will enable enhanced ALI by Air Force. Within AMG, aircraft are being fitted with

communications and network systems to pro-vide crew and embarked forces alike with great-er decision-making and situational awareness.

Other initiatives include increasing the range of Army helicopters through the use of ground-refuelling from a C-130J at forward airfields.

AIRCDRE Lennon said the AMG contribution could increase further still under Plan Jericho, by adopting non-traditional mobility roles.These would leverage the size, power, range and endurance of the AMG aircraft fleet.

“A KC-30A flying in the battlespace could do more than just provide fuel for strike and ISR aircraft – it could also enable more precise deliv-ery of strikes,” AIRCDRE Lennon said.

“Its presence in the battlespace might allow the KC-30A to serve as a data-link node, con-necting land and air assets that would be other-wise isolated from each other.”

AMG aircraft could also deliver enhanced ALI by collecting and distributing information within a battlespace, rather than rely on other aircraft or systems to provide it for them.

“There is potential for AMG aircraft to host vastly different array of sensors and other capabilities from what we have in the past,” AIRCDRE Lennon said.

“For example, we might see the C-130J pro-vide an organic pathfinder or overwatch ISR capability for land forces. Using the Hercules for this purpose would release a dedicated ISR asset like a UAV or P-8A to service other press-ing operational priorities.

“By enhancing our platforms in this way, joint force effectiveness will grow by many orders of magnitude. For AMG, it means we will actively plan to unlock further potential from our modern, world-class air mobility fleet.”

ONE of the themes of Plan Jericho is for Air Force to operate as a net-worked and integrated force.

Introducing networked communica-tions to the Hercules fleet will mean the aircraft no longer relies on voice communication by radio.

Key among these upgrades is se-cure beyond line of sight communica-tions, provided by a satellite commu-nications suite that allows voice and data transfer from around the globe.

The first C-130J received beyond line of sight in early 2015, with instal-lation to be completed across the fleet in 2017.

Beyond line of sight will enable a number of other new systems for the C-130J, including dynamic retasking capability.

Working as an extension of the existing Link-16 military network, dynamic retasking capability allows a C-130J crew to share and receive mis-sion information with other platforms in a battlespace beyond line of sight with Link-16 ground station.

Access to this information – espe-cially during large force employment operations – greatly increases the crew’s situational awareness and decision making ability.

In the C-130J cockpit, an aug-mented crew station will be installed, allowing terminals to link into the SATCOM to access existing networks (such as DRN and DSN). This will assist the crew to conduct en-route mission planning.

Finally, for C-130J passengers, addition of an AirView 360 suite and WiFi network connectivity inside the cargo compartment will, combined with connectivity to the outside world, provide passenger access to mis-sion information including data feed from sources such as other aircraft or ground relays.

FOR nearly 60 years, different models of Hercules have delivered people, cargo and supplies to front-line destinations.

Upgrades and the C-130J’s longer cargo bay will make the aircraft the most capable Hercules ever operated by the Air Force.

Following the retirement of the C-130H, the C-130J has been cleared to conduct heavy airdrop, able to deliver payloads weighing up to 19 tonnes. These payloads can include rigid-hull inflatable boats, bulldozers or a string of 26 container delivery stores.

The C-130J has also been cleared to drop the joint precision aerial delivery system, which com-

bines GPS guidance with a steer-able parachute.

This allows the C-130J to fly out of the range of low-level ground threats, dropping payloads from as high as 20,000 feet and still achiev-ing accuracy on the drop zone.

Pilots on the C-130J also practise unlit, unsealed airfield landings, wherein the crew use night-vision goggles to operate the Hercules from an austere runway without any lighting.

Another Plan Jericho initiative achieved in 2015 was the roll-out of forward arming and refuelling point, which allows a C-130J to land at an airfield and refuel other aircraft while engines are running. This would

allow a Hercules to rendezvous with Army helicopters and provide them with fuel, passengers and ordi-nance, increasing their operational flexibility and range.

Several C-130Js will receive ex-ternal fuel tanks, boosting their fuel capacity by eight tonnes.

These fuel tanks are similar to those carried on older Hercules variants, however, the C-130J’s fuel efficient engines will allow them to provide more fuel during forward arming and refuelling point opera-tions. Alternatively, the increased fuel load will reduce the need to refuel at a frontline airfield.

Coordinating land and air to deliver the most potent effect in the battlespace

RCEAIR FMarch 24, 20164 PLAN JERICHO

SPECIAL Forces can now use a C-130J Hercules to deliver an airdrop rigid-hull inflatable boat (ADRHIB) at sea.

The first delivery of an ADRHIB by a C-130J from No. 37 Squadron was completed off the coast of Perth during Exercise Pegasus Moon, held between February 8-19.

A C-17A Globemaster from No. 36 Squadron conducted a sequential drop of two ADRHIBs during the same exer-cise.

Using either aircraft to deliver an ADRHIB provides greater flexibility to Special Forces working in maritime operations, according to CO 37SQN WGCDR Matt Cooper.

“It’s beneficial for any operation to have additional options and flexibility,” WGCDR Cooper said.

“Once in the water, personnel can use the ADRHIB to mount an operation against an objective at sea or conduct amphibious operations.

“The C-130J is also able to airdrop several smaller zodiac marine craft and Special Forces personnel during a single pass.”

The job of airdropping ADRHIBs once belonged to the C-130H, which was retired in 2012.

The role was introduced to the C-17A, and now added to the C-130J

as the aircraft continues its own role expansion.

Under Plan Jericho, a C-130J’s abil-ity to support land and maritime opera-tions will expand even further.

This was demonstrated during Exercise Pegasus Moon with the C-130J airdropping Special Forces and boats to rendezvous with a Navy submarine.

“In the past, the communication from Navy vessels to a Hercules crew and embarked personnel was limited,” WGCDR Cooper said.

“Upgrades to the C-130J will allow the crew and embarked personnel to access information, whether it’s from Navy vessels or Air Force surveillance aircraft.”

“Special Forces on board a Hercules will have access to live picture of the battlespace and be able to conduct mis-sion briefings right up until the airdrop.”

The physical task of delivering an 11m ADRHIB is no small challenge.

It requires the vessel to be mounted on a platform called a marine craft aeri-al delivery system (MCADS).

The load weighs a total of 9.5 tonnes and leaves just 13cm of clearance from the C-130J’s cargo compartment ceiling.

The job of ensuring the load is safely prepared and delivered falls to riggers and air dispatchers from the Australian Army’s 176 Air Dispatch Squadron.

WO2 Simon Joyce, an air dispatcher with 176AD SQN, said rigging the load began with acceptance and preparation of the ADRHIB for airdrop.

“This includes the fitting of four G11B cargo parachutes and additional redundant parachute release systems,” WO2 Joyce said.

“Doing this enables the cargo para-chutes to safely release and clear the boat once in the water.

“Once complete and inspected, the ADRHIB is then lifted onto the MCADS platform with a crane and the ADRHIB is secured to the platform for aerial delivery.”

The airdrop of the load begins with an extraction parachute entering the air-stream, and “pulling” the MCADS and ADRHIB combo safely out the cargo bay.

PTE Steven Nemet, an air dispatcher with 176AD SQN, said once the load was clear of the aircraft, the MCADS released actuators that allowed the ADRHIB to separate.

“The ADRHIB enters the water underneath the descent parachutes, while the MCADS will enter the water and sink,” PTE Nemet said.

“Alternatively, the MCADS can be fitted with flotation devices allowing for its recovery.”

Our Hercules link Army and Navy off Perth coast, Eamon Hamilton reports

Special Forces personnel jump from a C-130J.

Above, a C-130J drops a rigid-hull inflatable boat during a training exercise. Below, air movements

personnel from No. 25 Squadron load the inflatable boat into a C-130J at RAAF Base Pearce.

Photos: CPL David Gibbs

MAKING A SPLASH

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