SPRING 2020 WINGS NO.3 72 VOLUME SURVEILLANCE TECHNOLOGY SR-71 BLACKBIRD FIGHTING THE COLD WAR FROM 80,000FT NOWHERE SEASAT OCEAN OBSERVATION TO HIDE FROM SPACE

E-7A WEDGETAIL DEFENCE’S EYE IN THE SKY

AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE defencebank.com.au 1800 033 139

1234 5678 1234 5678

Everything a cadet needs, and then some.

Created especially for cadets - our Cadet Saver is fee free.

• Your choice of camo Visa Debit card. • Visa payWave. • Apple Pay, Google Pay™, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay and Garmin Pay. • Online banking. • Award-winning app.

Then, on top of all that, a healthy interest rate on your savings.

.75 p.a.% 1 Variable rate.* Talk to us today to find out more.

*Terms and conditions, fees and charges may apply in certain situations. Interest rate is current as at 12 March 2020 and is subject to change without notice. Before acquiring any product please read the Products and Services – Conditions of Use (DPS) available from www.defencebank.com.au to consider whether any product is right for you. Defence Bank Limited ABN 57 087 651 385 AFSL / Australian Credit Licence 234582. CONTENTS.

ON THE COVER Boeing E-7A Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft at RAAF Base Williamtown. 34 WINGS TEAM WINGS MANAGER Ron Haack CONTENTS EDITOR Sandy McPhie ART DIRECTOR Katie Monin wings SPRING volume 72 / NO.3 SENIOR ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Sue Guymer 4 WELCOME MESSAGE ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Phil Whiteman 6 FROM THE PRESIDENT ASSISTANT EDITORS 8 MILITARY AVIATION Mike Nelmes (history) 14 ASSOCIATION NEWS John Kindler, AO AFC (industry news) 16 INDUSTRY NEWS Bob Treloar, AO MiD (military aviation) 22 LOFTY AMBITIONS Newcastle Airport projects CONTACT 24 MARITIME SURVEILLANCE E [email protected] P-8A Poseidon W raafapublications.org.au 26 THE BIG PICTURE A RAAFANSW Publications Pty Ltd E-7A Wedgetail Salamander Bay LPO, PO Box 656 Salamander Bay 2317 28 NOWHERE TO HIDE Hyperspectral surveillance PRINTED BY: WHO Printing, Regional Printer 30 EARLY EARTH OBSERVATIONS of the Year, National Print Awards 2020. 24 FROM SPACE Pioneering satellite oceanography DIGITAL EDITION 34 FIGHTING THE COLD WAR FROM To read this publication online, 85,000 FEET go to raafapublications.org.au/wings, SR-71 Blackbird or raafa.org.au/wings-archive 42 SKILLING UP FOR DEFENCE Hands-on education FACEBOOK 44 THE DRIVE THAT STARTED Wings is now on Facebook, go to facebook. AN AIRLINE com/WingsMagazineRAAFAPublications The beginnings of Qantas 52 THE POWER BEHIND DISCLAIMER FUTURE AVIATION Information in the articles in this magazine was current at time Rolls-Royce on aviation propulsion of publication but more recent developments should be checked 56 WARHAWKS AGAINST THE with the relevant Defence and other authorities for currency and ONSLAUGHT any changes to conditions. Content appearing in this publication does not necessarily reflect the views or have the endorsement Fannie Bay dogfight part 2 of the Department of Defence or the publisher. While every effort 62 MOVING ON UP has been made to ensure accuracy and currency in the articles Women in the Air Force presented, reliance should not be placed on the information contained without reference to the relevant authorities. No part 64 THE LEGACY LIVES ON of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent Open Arms of RAAFANSW Publications. No responsibility is accepted by the publisher for the accuracy of advertisements or information. 66 WARIES & STORIES An airman’s view of Ubon 69 CADETS NEWS 72 PERSONAL FINANCE 73 LAST FLIGHT AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION 74 BOOK REVIEWS 66 WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 03 WELCOME. COMMANDER SURVEILLANCE & RESPONSE GROUP

MESSAGE FROM commander SRG

OINING A DISTINGUISHED ready across multiple domains. line of Royal Australian Air I continue to be inspired by the Force Groups and Units, incredible talent and resilience of elements of Surveillance and our people – to see opportunities for JResponse Group (SRG) capabilities continuous improvement and to identify feature as part of a wider surveillance new ways of achieving operational theme in this edition of Wings – and effectiveness in response to the as Commander SRG I am delighted to changing environment. contribute to the introduction. To that end, SRG’s success, SRG has a long and proud service achievements and attainment of critical history and is one of the largest and milestones in 2020 have been as broad most diverse Force Element Groups as they are complex. in the Air Force. I am incredibly proud From coordination of major to be part of that history; to carry on construction projects for our new that legacy while forging a new path. systems, providing disaster relief, both It is a path that is both challenging from our aircraft and on the ground, and evolutionary as SRG capitalises playing a role in the COVID response, on high technology systems in support search and rescue, exercises and of achieving air superiority as part of operations at home and abroad – as a fifth-generation fighting force. well as support to an international Under the motto 'Foremost Sentinel', space mission – our activities are SRG is the organisation that provides certainly diverse. I firmly believe it is consider it the greatest privilege of my the ‘Know, Understand and Respond’ the sum of individual efforts that makes career to be given the opportunity to line of effort, delivering situational SRG so effective and our personnel lead such a capable and effective team. awareness to commanders wherever should take pride in the critical role they Best wishes and please enjoy this the battle may be. SRG's increasing play in that success. edition of Wings. focus and support to cyber and space I could not be more proud to be Air Commodore Barbara Courtney AM capabilities ensures Air Force and the Commander SRG during this exciting Commander Surveillance and ADF is suitably equipped and mission time of unprecedented change and Response Group

THE AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION AND WINGS GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGE THE SUPPORT OF VIRGIN AUSTRALIA

SERVING THOSE WHO SERVE

04 | SPRING 2020 PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP MilCIS Conference Delegate MilCIS is the only Australian conference that focuses strategically on the crucial technologies, products, systems and services associated with military communications and information systems.

MILITARY COMMUNICATION AND MilCIS INFORMATION SYSTEMS CONFERENCE AND EXPO proceeding 10–13 November 2020 as virtual conference www.milcis.com.au and expo

MilCIS Conference delegates pay the relevant conference registration fee and have full access to all conference presentations (five parallel streams including the Expo presentations), daily breakfast and lunch product brief sessions and the Virtual Exhibition Hall. WELCOME. NATIONAL PRESIDENT

AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT’S CORNER PRESIDENT Carl Schiller OAM CSM VICE PRESIDENT Sharon Bown Carl Schiller OAM, CSM, National President Air Force Association SECRETARY Peter Colliver, [email protected] AT THE TIME OF support, and employment TREASURER Bob Robertson WRITING, COVID-19 and vocational advice are is undergoing a second now likely to be in demand. wave of infections There are many ESOs JOIN THE AIR FORCE in Victoria with New in the country. Although ASSOCIATION South Wales coming they differ in the services Membership is open to serving and former dangerously close they provide, support to members of the Australian Defence Force to another significant veterans and their families and Allied Armed Forces, their family outbreak. Closure of state is a common theme. Go to dva. members, current and former Air Force borders and police checkpoints gov.au/civilian-life/find-ex-service- Cadets, Air League Cadets and members to contain people who reside in high- organisation to view a list of ESOs of the public who have an interest in aviation and who support the mission and infection areas are creating anxiety and their contact details. objectives of the Air Force Association. in the wider community. Air Force is planning its 100th The use of ADF personnel to assist Anniversary Celebration to be held in safeguarding the community is on 31 March 2021. It has sought the DIVISION CONTACTS: reassuring. I have received numerous Association’s assistance to arrange NSW: 02 9393 3485 comments commending our Service men the attendance of retired Air Force [email protected]; raafansw.org.au and women for their efforts. These are veterans and their partners at the VIC: 03 9813 4600 unsettling times which is why we need to commemoration in Canberra. Air Force, [email protected];raafavic.org.au support our friends and their families, and like the general community, is hoping ACT: 0428 622 105 reassure them Australians are resilient the current COVID-19 crisis will be [email protected]; raafaact.org.au and will get through this epidemic. over by the end of 2020 to enable TAS: 03 6200 9221 Ex-Service Organisations (ESO), like the inclusion of a veteran attendance [email protected]; raafatas.com the Air Force Association (AFA), have an component in the celebration. AFA will SA: 08 8227 0980 important role to play in troubling times. advertise the event and will be seeking [email protected]; raafasa.org.au These organisations provide support to expressions of interest from those WA: 08 9288 8400 the veteran community, including current wishing to attend. Watch for the flyer. [email protected]; raafawa.org.au and former ADF members. Advocacy for In the meantime, be mindful of your QLD: 0419 688 014 those seeking support and services from health and follow government guidelines [email protected]; raafaqld.com Defence or DVA, welfare and wellbeing to avoid contracting COVID-19.

- WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN -

PLEASE CONTACT PHIL WHITEMAN 0434 524 473 / [email protected]

06 | SPRING 2020 © Commonwealth of Australia, of Australia, © Commonwealth Department of Defence

BOEING 737NG (CFM56) TYPE TRAINING CASR Part 66 B1/B2 Theory and POC Courses in Brisbane THEORY: 12 Aug – 20 Sept 2019 POC: 30 Sept – 11 Oct 2019 or Now is the perfect DIVISION CONTACTS: NSW: 02 9393 3485 [email protected]; raafansw.org.au time to upskill VIC: 03 9813 4600 [email protected];raafavic.org.au ACT: 0428 622 105 [email protected]; raafaact.org.au TAS: 03 6200 9221 [email protected]; raafatas.com SA: 08 8227 0980 [email protected]; raafasa.org.au WANT TO KNOW HOW TO QUALIFY FOR, OR REMOVE EXCLUSIONS FROM, A DASR PART 66 MAML? WA: 08 9288 8400 [email protected]; raafawa.org.au Aviation Australia can help you achieve the required MEAs to satisfy DASR Part 66 MAML QLD: 0419 688 014 [email protected]; raafaqld.com exclusion requirements to help you progress in your career.

We offer a broad range of training services including:

Assessment of basic knowledge and practical competencies to remove DASR Part 66 exclusions CONTACT US TO FIND OUT MORE Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) towards a CASA licence  07 3860 0900 Approved Aircraft Type Training (theory, practical and on the job training)  [email protected]  www.aviationaustralia.aero Instructor-led training and self-study options for CASA and EASA Part 66 category licences and Aeroskills outcomes, recognised by DASA

Part 66 exams available in QLD, VIC, WA, SA, NSW and NT

RTO No. 30770 | CASA.147 MTO 0025 MILITARY. AVIATION

EDITED BY Bob Treloar

E-7A Wedgetail turns 10

IN MAY, RAAF’S airborne early warning ability to survey, command, control and command and control of all coalition and control capability, the E-7A Wedgetail, coordinate joint air, sea and land force aircraft operating in a designated battle celebrated 10 years of service. operations in real time. management area. Data provided by the Air Force operates six E-7A Wedgetail Over the past 10 years, No.2 Wedgetail ensured the joint force had aircraft from RAAF Base Williamtown, Squadron’s E-7A aircraft have been high integrity situational awareness across NSW. A Boeing 737-700 variant, the regularly employed throughout the all domains, air, land and sea delivering a E-7A Wedgetail combines long-range world supporting concurrent exercises force multiplier effect, not only for RAAF surveillance radar, secondary radar, and operations, often with all six aircraft but for all participating nations. Crews passive detection and surveillance deployed simultaneously. Wedgetails regularly managed more than 80 combat receivers and tactical/strategic voice have actively participated in Operations aircraft during a single mission. and data communications systems. Spate, Atlas and APEC Assist, while Source: Defence Connect One of the most advanced airborne providing concurrent support for battlespace management platforms Operation Okra. in the world, Wedgetail provides the During Operation Okra, the E-7A ABOVE A30-003 at lift-off from Australian Defence Force with the Wedgetail had responsibility for RAAF Base Williamtown.

First Squadron of costs of those already delivered to customers continued to fall. The purchase cost of the conventional take-off and landing F-35A version in the current production batch is now below F-35s on the promised $A122 million price tag for the first time, and Australia's next batch of aircraft will be even less. On the sustainment side, the operating cost is slightly under $US35,000 per flight hour “Classic” Hornet and begin the year- target long transition to the F-35A. In turn, with a target of $25,000, which will put LOCKHEED MARTIN HAS now the F-35 in the ballpark of today’s fourth- the last remaining Hornet Squadron delivered more than 500 fifth-generation generation fighters. (75 Squadron), based at Tindal in the F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft to That is good news for the RAAF, which Northern Territory, will begin F-35A US and international customers, has received 25 F-35As out of a total of conversion in January 2022. Following and a further 220 aircraft are on the 72 aircraft on order. By January next year a year of consolidation, the Joint Strike assembly line in Fort Worth, Texas. the first of its three fighter squadrons Fighter capability is set to achieve final The manufacturer said as the increase will be declared operational. operational capability by the end of 2023. in production continued, the price of At the end of this year, the second Source: The Australian newRAAF aircraft P-8A Poseidon. had fallen Photo: to USAFits lowest Tech Sgt in Heather Redman.operational fighter Squadron (77 ABOVE F-35 demonstration at the 2018 the program’s history and the operating Squadron) will cease flying the F/A-18 Avalon air show. Photo: Nigel Pittaway.

08 | SPRING 2020 Air-to-air refuelling for next-gen fighter

THE RAAF HAS demonstrated the capability of its KC-30 tanker to successfully support the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. The KC-30A MRTT is fitted with two forms of air-to-air refuelling capabilities: an advanced refuelling boom system mounted on the tail of the aircraft and a pair of all-electric refuelling pods on Australia buys more outboard stations under each wing. System operation is controlled by an air refuelling operator in the cockpit able to monitor refuelling progress on 2D and 3D screens. The KC-30A MRTT can remain Triton UAVs 1,800km from its home base for up to four hours with 50 tonnes of offload fuel available. In its transport role, the KC- AUSTRALIA HAS ORDERED another two Triton unmanned aerial vehicles 30A can carry 270 passengers and it has (UAVs) to add to the one already under contract. The RAAF plans to field a total under-floor cargo compartments that can of six such UAVs. The first MQ-4C is expected to enter service in mid-2023, accommodate 34,000kg of military and with all six scheduled to be fully operational by late 2025. They will be based civilian cargo pallets and containers. at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia. The total value of the program is While the KC-30A’s interior is almost expected to be about $5 billion. exactly like a normal airliner, the rest The Triton builds on elements of the Global Hawk unmanned aerial system, of the aircraft has been modified to perform the air-to-air refuelling function. with structural reinforcements to the airframe and wing. De-icing and lightning The KC-30A’s boom can offload fuel at protection systems have been incorporated and enable the Triton to penetrate a rate of 4,500 litres a minute and its cloud in the icing layers and gain a closer view of surface targets. hose-and-drogues systems can each Supporting missions for up to 24 hours, the Triton is equipped with a sensor deliver fuel at 1,600 litres a minute. suite that provides a 360-degree view of its surroundings for over 2,000 nautical Source: Defence Connect miles. The MQ-4C’s primary long-range maritime search sensor is a belly- mounted X-band AN/ZPY-3 Multi-Function Active Sensor electronically scanned array radar, which enables the UAV to cover more than 2.7 million square miles BELOW A US F-35 Lightning II in formation in a single sortie. Other equipment includes an electro-optical and infrared with a RAAF KC-30 MRTT. sensor turret and an electronics support measures suite. The Triton will be flown by qualified Air Force pilots from a ground station, supported by a co-pilot and will supplement the Boeing P-8A Poseidon multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft. Information gathered by the Triton will be analysed and communicated to Command and Control centres by crews drawn from all functional elements of the ADF. Source: NavyRecognition.com

ABOVE RAAF Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton HALE UAV. Photo: RAAF.

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 09 MILITARY. AVIATION

RAAF Air traffic support during bushfire crisis

WITH THE CONTINUING threat of and the volume of fire-fighting air traffic Covid-19 and the pandemic consuming made the Transportable Air Operations the world, it is easy to forget that only Tower a critical component for the nine months ago Australia was battling continued emergency efforts out of control fires along the length in Gippsland. of the east coast. The service that Flight Lieutenant A glimpse back into that fiery battle Young and his colleagues provided at highlights the support and commitment Bairnsdale Airport delivered a much provided by the often overlooked and safer and efficient flying environment often taken for granted RAAF air traffic for pilots operating in the area and controllers. allowed for sustained flying operations No.44 Wing deployed a transportable during challenging traffic and visibility air-operations tower to Bairnsdale Airport conditions. in early January at short notice after the FLTLT Young acknowledged the effort Australian Defence Force was called of his crew and said: “It’s a great feeling to support Victorian State Emergency to come and actually do what we train Services to fight bushfires and provide for. The day-to-day air traffic services is community aid. our job but the reason why we wear the Significant fluctuations in weather had uniform is to get out here and help when Transportable air operations tower. an adverse effect on flying conditions Defence is called upon.” Combat controllers put through their paces

COMBAT CONTROLLERS FROM the RAAF’s No.4 Squadron completed a successful four weeks of Close Air Combat controllers from No.4 Squadron Support exercises around RAAF Base based at RAAF Base Williamtown practise close air support with PC-21 Williamtown, NSW, during Exercise aircraft during Exercise Havoc Strike. Havoc Strike. Photo: Department of Defence. No.4 Squadron Combat Control Team is tasked to be the first on the ground to assess viability for the safe arrival of aircraft and personnel. It comprises combat controllers who have specialist skills in reconnaissance, assault zone control and clearance of an airfield. They provide a range of capabilities including declaration that a landing zone is safe for aircraft movements, meteorology observation and air strike direction. conflict airspace for multiple fixed and precision strike of hostile forces in close Exercise Havoc Strike allowed No.4 rotary wing assets, generate an effect on proximity to friendly forces. Squadron to simulate scenarios and the signals spectrum to disrupt a target The exercise provided the first problem sets that required the combat and coordinate intelligence promulgation. opportunity to work with the 4SQN PC- controllers to integrate, synchronise and They were also required to conduct 21 aircraft which were introduced to the control multi-domain assets and effects surveillance and reconnaissance of Squadron in late January 2020. to concurrently manage and safely de- the forward operating zone and direct Source: Defence Connect

10 | SPRING 2020 Transportable air operations tower. Combat controllers put through their paces

pr 14 YEARS OF PROVEN SERVICE, 235 AIRCRAFT, 9 VISIONARY AIR FORCES! For years, we were told a turboprop trainer would never be able to replace a jet trainer. We proved them wrong – pilots now even transit directly from the PC-21 to fighter aircraft with the benefit of huge cost savings. Our highly effective training system has been successfully adopted by leading air forces around the world – a clear demonstration that the PC-21 is the training system concept of the future.

Pilatus Aircraft Ltd • Switzerland • +41 41 619 61 11 • www.pilatus-aircraft.com MILITARY. AVIATION

Exmouth space facility BELOW RAAF Base Tindal. takes first pictures

US weapons store for raaf base Tindal

THE UNITED STATES is paying to store its military weapons on Australian soil at RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory. Weapons storage areas and a new jet "fuel farm" have been planned for more than a decade as part of joint training programs between the US and Australia. The US Naval Facilities Command Pacific announced a $15.01 million contract to construct two earth-covered magazines and a production area that will include a munitions assembly conveyor shelter to support US and Australian military joint training activities. It is expected to be completed by 2022. THE FIRST PICTURES from the joint Australia-United States space facility at Tindal’s runway is being extended Exmouth on WA’s Coral Coast follows its reassembly in a purpose-built facility, to support KC-30A Multi Role complete with a 270-tonne rotating dome. Tanker Transport and larger US B-52 Through a partnership between the RAAF and the US Space Force, the Stratofortress bombers. telescope developed in the US for scientific research has been relocated to The project supports plans outlined Exmouth. The world-leading, 360-degree telescope will enable Defence to better by the bilateral United States/Australia track and identify objects and threats in space including space debris, as well as Force Posture Agreement and enables predict and avoid potential collisions. Bilateral Enhanced Air Cooperation Alliance with the US is at the core of Australia’s security and defence planning, missions. The Force Posture is a post and provides Australia access to advanced technology and information. In ANZUS military treaty signed between an increasingly complex security environment, closer Australian-US defence the US and Australia in 2014. It will cooperation will strengthen our respective capability advantages. The Exmouth mean Australia is better able to respond, facility is an important part of the global Space Surveillance Network, which provides with other partners in the Asia Pacific, space domain awareness to both Australia and the US. to any regional contingency, including The Space Surveillance Telescope will now undergo a period of extensive humanitarian assistance and dealing qualification testsABOVE and is expectedRAAF P-8A Poseidon.to be operational Photo: USAF in Tech 2022. Sgt Heather Redman. with natural disasters. Source: Australian Defence Magazine Source: Katherine Times

12 | SPRING 2020 Second CubeSat

Rocket Lab’s electron rocket on the launch pad at Mãhia launched Peninsula, New Zealand.

THE RAAF, in collaboration with University of New South Wales (UNSW) Canberra, has successfully launched the second of four CubeSats to be flown in a program designed to test radio communications technologies to help shape future space capabilities in Australia. It follows the launch of the M1 Pathfinder in late 2018. The launch took place on Rocket Lab’s 12th mission from New Zealand’s Mãhia RAAF, is a significant step in developing to be used to evaluate technologies Peninsula, on 13 June 2020. Successful Australia’s defence space systems. to be deployed on more complex space communication with the satellite was Small satellites such as M2 Pathfinder, systems, such as communication or established via UNSW Canberra Space’s also known as CubeSats, are about the Earth observation satellites. They have satellite ground station hosted by size of a loaf of bread and allow high-tech enabled UNSW Canberra to develop Cingulan Space, near Yass in NSW. capabilities to be tested at a lower cost several space courses and programs The M2 Pathfinder, developed by than larger satellites. to benefit Defence capabilities in space. UNSW Canberra, in partnership with the The program allows small satellites Source: Defence Connect

Partnering with you for your child’s future. • Reception to Year 12 on one campus • Caring Christian environment • New Rec to Year 3 building opening in 2021, including nature playground • New Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathmatics Hub • Performing Arts Centre, Home Economics, Technical Studies • Innovative reading, writing and numeracy program • Learning support program with trained therapy dog • Door to door bus services • Inclusive Fees; excursions, camps, stationery supplies and Yr 6-12 laptops

213 Yorktown Road, Craigmore, SA 5114 (08) 8287 1111 www.hopecc.sa.edu.au

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 13 ASSOCIATION. NEWS

WORDS Flight Lieutenant Bel Scott

Bomber Command

COMMEMORATION Kevin Dennis CMG. IN A SMALL CEREMONY held at WGCDR Clyde said the ceremony uniforms. Of those 10,000, just over the Air Force Memorial in Adelaide on is even more important for RAAF one-third paid the ultimate sacrifice. 30 May, RAAF Edinburgh and the RAAF Edinburgh, recognising that No.462 Today, the RAAF, once again, operates Association (South Australia) partnered Squadron, a distinguished RAAF 460 and 462 Squadrons within the to honour those who served in Bomber Bomber Command Unit, was now Air Warfare Centre — both originally Command during World War II. a reformed RAAF Squadron. distinguished Australian units within At the Torrens Parade Ground, “462SQN was part of the No.100 Bomber Command. Senior Air Force Representative – Group of Bomber Command that was South Australia and Air Warfare Centre responsible for countermeasures and HONOURING OUR FALLEN Commander AIRCDRE Brendan Rogers jamming enemy radars,” WGCDR The annual Bomber Command and RAAFA (South Australia) President Clyde said. Commemorative Ceremony unites Robert Black AM joined Commanding The Squadron’s Halifax aircraft were current and ex-serving Air Force Officer 462SQN WGCDR David modified with electronic jamming members, the wider veterans Clyde, other ADF representatives, SA equipment to interfere with German community and key representatives Governor Hieu Van Le, SA Premier night-fighter and ground-based radars from across the Adelaide community to Steven Marshall and a representative and communications. honour those who served in the largest of the Opposition to lay wreaths in “Today the 462SQN patch with and longest bombing campaign of commemoration of those who served. the three vertical yellow stripes that World War II. GPCAPT (Retd) Robert Black noted how were emblazoned on the Halifax tail The annual service not only wonderful it was to have RAAF Edinburgh and Z5 on its body to make it easily commemorates the South Australians and RAAF Association come together for identifiable within the RAF that the who served in Bomber Command, such important ceremonies, stressing aircraft was utilised by 462SQN is a but also honours the small number how it served as a means of passing on continual reminder of the Squadron’s of Bomber Command veterans, such the legacy to today’s serving veterans. historical links and significant operational as Kevin Dennis CGM, who are part GPCAPT Greg Weller, Director achievements,” Squadron Warrant of the veteran’s community today. Community Engagement, said the Officer 462SQN Darren Rhodes said. Warrant Officer Dennis was a bank commemoration has become one of Eight RAAF squadrons and about clerk in Adelaide when he enlisted in the the key ceremonies for which RAAF 10,000 Australian airmen served with RAAF and trained as a wireless operator, Edinburgh partners with the RAAF Bomber Command in Australian and serving in 462 Squadron. Association every year. composite squadrons in RAAF or RAF During a raid to Frankfurt on 13 March 1945, his aircraft was hit by heavy flak while leaving the target. The flight engineer was killed and the plane Bomber Command Halifax. sustained heavy damage. WO Dennis was seriously wounded – one foot was almost completely severed and his other leg shattered. Although bleeding profusely, he refused to leave his post and continued to send and receive messages until the aircraft’s forced landing in France. During his long hospital convalescence in England, a Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (CMG) arrived in the mail from the King.

14 | SPRING 2020 PRESIDENT'S. DESK

The citation read in part, ‘for courage of the highest order when he must have Supporting been experiencing extreme agony’. SQNLDR WOFF Dennis is one of only 10 David Leicester. firefighters Australians awarded the CMG for actions during WWII, of which six were awarded to members of Bomber Command. THE AIR FORCE ASSOCIATION SQNLDR David Leicester DFC and continues to support the former Bar, OAM, also a member of RAAFA ADF Firefighters who have fought (SA), served with distinction in Bomber for a decade for recognition of their Command, completing two operational exposure to poisonous waste materials tours while serving with the RAF’s used in Air Force fire training up until 2001 when safe practices were No.640 Squadron, No.158 Squadron introduced. Presumptive legislation and No.35 Squadron. He survived 68 to help firefighters claim for health missions on Halifax and Lancaster support and compensation exists in aircraft including 37 with Pathfinder most states, the ACT and NT. There is Squadrons. Through the period, he rose also a presumptive clause within the from Sergeant to Squadron Leader and Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation is believed to have been the youngest (Defence-related Claims) Act 1988 for Squadron Leader and Flight Commander Defence firefighters. However, former in Bomber Command at one stage. firefighters from an earlier era have been Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 prevented from accessing the ‘beneficial’ restrictions, the Bomber Command provisions of that Act due to a unique set veterans could not be part of this of transitional arrangements. Moreover, year's service. they cannot claim under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 or the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986. Effectively, they have little cover for their Service-related injuries. The Association has had several meetings with senior DVA staff on the matter and has recently brought the Life membership matter to the attention of the Minister of Veterans’ Affairs. The Association AT NSW DIVISION ANNUAL argues there is national and international GENERAL MEETING, conducted by recognition of the hazardous nature video link on 4 May, State President of firefighting. Civilian firefighters’ Ron Glew announced the award of work-related cancerous conditions Air Force Association Life Membership are covered under the various state/ to Geoff Peterkin OAM. The certificate territory legislations, so it seems and life-member badge had been reasonable Defence firefighters, from presented to Geoff by Fighter any era, should also be covered by Squadrons Branch president Mike legislation. There is irrefutable evidence of the contaminated waste materials Lavercombe at an informal afternoon bringing members of several disparate tea the day before. used in earlier Air Force fire training. fighter squadron associations into the These former serving members are Geoff, who has been a member Fighter Squadrons Branch. proud of their service and appreciate of the Fighter Squadrons Branch The award took Geoff by complete there was no intention or negligence since 2004 and Honorary Secretary surprise and he was humbled to think that in what has occurred. They are simply for most of that period, received the such an honour should be given to him for seeking adequate health support award for his diligent and enthusiastic doing something he finds so enjoyable. and, if applicable, compensation. contribution in the development of Congratulations Geoff on the well- The Association has presented to IT systems to enable information deserved award. DVA several suggested options for a dissemination and membership resolution and has strongly indicated management within NSW Division it will remain resolute in its assistance and particularly the Fighter Squadrons ABOVE New life member Geoff 'Terkin' Peterkin to these former servicemen. The Branch. Additionally, as honorary with FSB President Mike Lavercombe (right) and Association remains optimistic for secretary, Geoff has played a key role in VP Dave Leach. an acceptable outcome.

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 15 INDUSTRY. NEWS

EDITED BY John Kindler

LEFT Advanced low-cost sensors, AI algorithms. and virtual technology to enable common operational picture as part of ASTARTE. Photo: DARPA. It is designed to provide a precise picture of the airspace to allow for long- range fire missions as well as manned and unmanned aircraft operations simultaneously and more safely in the same airspace. ASTARTE is focused on three technical areas: • Development of algorithms to predict airspace conflicts, propose de- confliction solutions with associated risk analysis, and direct sensors in the ASTARTE network to maintain the gaining a real-time view necessary airspace picture at a given moment in time of airspace over future battlefields • Develop or leverage existing low-cost sensors to detect and track, AIRSPACE ABOVE future battlefields Projects Agency (DARPA) announced it is in real-time, manned and unmanned is expected to be increasingly congested conducting an Air Space Total Awareness aircraft, airborne weapons, and other with large numbers of unmanned aerial for Rapid Tactical Execution (ASTARTE) potential flight safety hazards, such systems, manned aircraft, munitions and program in partnership with the US Army as unmanned balloons, in an missiles filling the sky. New technologies and US Air Force. A2/AD setting are required to effectively integrate ASTARTE aims to provide a real-time, • Development of a virtual laboratory effects from all domains to de-conflict common operational picture of the to model, simulate and virtually friendly forces and rapidly counter an dynamic airspace in the most complex experiment using a combination enemy’s actions on the battlefield. and challenging adversary anti-access/ of current C2 systems and ASTARTE The US Defence Advanced Research area denial, or A2/AD, environments. technology.

RAF swarming drones exceed expectations ROYAL AIR FORCE projects to develop swarming drones are "exceeding expectations", according to correspondence from the UK's Minister of State for Defence, Baroness Goldie. The minister said Project Mosquito had entered Phase 2 and Many Drones Make Light Work had undertaken successful trials in March. “Following the successful first trials, 216 Squadron was reformed at RAF Waddington on 1 April 2020. They will take on the operating role for the RAF’s fleet of network-enabled drones.” Swarming drones are designed to support manned fighters such as the Eurofighter Typhoon or F-35, confusing air defences and allowing fighters to penetrate adversaries’ air space.

16 | SPRING 2020 USAF next-generation

FIGHTER PROGRAM NIDA AVIONICS TRAINING PROGRAM WITH THE GROWING success of Russian and Chinese fifth-generation fighter aircraft like the Su-57, J-20 and JF-31, the United States has kicked off a suite of development programs to replace the ageing F-15 Eagle and fifth-generation F-22 Raptor air frames beginning in the 2030s. While the US has plans to maintain fifth-generation combat aircraft like the F-22 and the F-35 and recently announced the acquisition of an advanced F-15X variant, the rapid evolution of potential adversaries' fifth-generation air combat capabilities has forced a major step-change in the way the US responds. The US Air Force (USAF) has identified that the future system will have to counter adversaries equipped with next-generation advanced electronic attack, sophisticated integrated air defence systems, passive detection, integrated self-protection, directed energy weapons and cyber-attack capabilities. Shifting from the concepts established in the USAF’s Air Superiority 2030 plan, it is proposed that a future fighter program would rapidly prototype technologies with a focus on maturing them for inclusion in an advanced aircraft to be fielded UTILISING COMPUTER AIDED in the early 2030s. DELIVERY (CAI) TRAINING Achieving that would require a focus on three key areas: agile software The NIDA Aviation and Avionics Maintenance development – a process by which programmers quickly develop, test and Programs (AMT) hardware and software was implement code, soliciting feedback from users throughout the process; open completed after comprehensive consultations systems architecture – enabling a great degree of plug-and-play functionality; with leading aviation bodies. The program covers learning of: and finally, digital engineering – including 3D modelling across the entire program to support lower costs, manufacturing and sustainment programs. • Basic electricity & electronics • Basic mathematics & science • Introduction to aviation maintenance • Aircraft power & batteries • Basic multi-engine power distribution • Aircraft electrical & electronics system • General structures & aerodynamics • Flight line, fire safety & ground handling • Foreign object elimination

The experiments are done through the NIDA Console with corresponding card-sets. Hundreds of academic institutions and air forces are using our AMT program, such as:

• Fiji Institute of Aviation Studies • US Air Force • South Western Sydney TAFE • Canadian Air Force • AVTS in conjuction with TAFE Gippsland • RAF Contact us to learn how the AMT Program work for you www.bestech.com.au

03 9540 5100| [email protected] Unit 14/ 44 Garden Boulevard, Dingley Artist concept of a next-generation fighter. VIC 3172

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 17 INDUSTRY. NEWS developing thermal solutions

GA-ASI HAS PARTNERED with Australia-based Conflux Technology for the development of a heat exchanger for the GA-ASI’s line of remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS). Conflux Technology, which specialises in thermal and fluid engineering, is providing design expertise in the optimisation of additive manufacturing heat exchangers. GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue said: “GA- ASI and Conflux are developing novel and state-of-the-art thermal solutions for application to our existing and next- generation RPAS. This will allow enhanced endurance and lower manufacturing cost, as well as more flexibility in our product design and integration.” Under Project Air 7003, GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SkyGuardian variant was selected by the Australian Government to provide the Armed RPAS for the Australian MQ-9B SkyGuardian armed RPAS. Defence Force. Aussie SME wins global F-35 supply contracT CHEMRING AUSTRALIA, based at Lara near Geelong, Victoria secured a $US107.5 million ($AU150.9 million) contract for the production and delivery of countermeasure flares for Australian, United States and international F-35 operators. Chemring Australia is a leading manufacturer and supplier of air- launched countermeasures against sophisticated electronic systems. Defence Minister Linda Reynolds welcomed the contract announcement, saying: “This is a strong endorsement of our domestic manufacturing capability, and the policies we’ve put in place to bolster our sovereign Chemring Australia as the second source billion in production contracts as part defence capability.” supplier of the MJU-68 countermeasure, of the global F-35 Program, employing Since 2011, Chemring Group and and MJU-61 training flares. more than 2,400 Australians. Defence have worked closely with the US To date, more than 50 Australian ABOVE Defence Minister Linda Reynolds Navy’s Naval Air System team to qualify companies have shared in almost $1.7 with WGCDR Jason Clare CO No.3 Squadron.

18 | SPRING 2020 Boeing delivers first unmanned Loyal Wingman aircraft

BOEING DEFENCE AUSTRALIA partnering with the RAAF and Australian defence industry celebrated the roll-out of the first Boeing Airpower Teaming missions and swap quickly between systems, capabilities and full life cycle System unmanned aircraft in May, the those roles, according to Boeing. requirements; manufactured with first military aircraft to be fully designed Head of Air Force Capability Air Boeing’s largest-ever resin-infused and built in Australia in 50 years. The Vice-Marshal Catherine Roberts said: single composite piece; and assembled aircraft is Boeing’s largest investment “I applaud the efforts of Boeing working using proven advanced manufacturing in an unmanned aircraft outside the US. collaboratively with a breadth of Australian processes. The Loyal Wingman, at 11.5m and defence industry from prime partners The Loyal Wingman prototype now with a range of 3,200km, applies artificial like BAE Systems Australia, through to moves into a ground test phase, followed intelligence to fly independently, or SMEs like RUAG Australia and Ferra by taxi and first flight in late 2020. in support of manned aircraft, while Manufacturing, to deliver the concept maintaining safe separation. The drones demonstrator illustrating the capability will be able to engage in electronic of Australian industry.” ABOVE The first unmanned Loyal Wingman warfare as well as intelligence, The aircraft was engineered using aircraft was presented to the RAAF by Boeing reconnaissance and surveillance a digital twin to model its structures, Australia in May. Photo: Boeing.

GSE SALES - HIRE - MAINTENANCE

CALL 07 3860 6800 FOR A QUOTE

Australasia’s Largest Distributor of Refurbished Aviation Ground Support Equipment providing ‘BEST VALUE’ solutions to the Aviation Industry. AIR START UNITS | AIRCRAFT PUSH-BACK TRACTORS | GROUND POWER UNITS | AIR CONDITIONING UNITS BAGGAGE TUGS | BELT LOADERS | AIR STAIRS | PALLET LOADERS | TRANSPONDERS

Brisbane Airport QLD 4008 P: +61 7 3860 6800 E: [email protected] W: www.ozgse.com.au

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 19 INDUSTRY. NEWS

DSTG partners with Gilmour Space technologies Key munitions manufacturing THE GOVERNMENT HAS announced a $1.1 billion agreement with Thales Australia for the continued management and operation of Australia’s munition factories in Benalla (Victoria) and Mulwala (NSW). The agreement provides surety of supply of key munitions and components for the ADF. The new contract will also support key federal government initiatives including export opportunities as part of the Defence Sovereign Industry Capability Priorities. Gilmore Space Technologies One Vision Rocket. ABOVE Georgie Uebergang and Shae DEFENCE SCIENCE AND Technology service providers to offer access to Skelton conducting a final inspection of 50cal Ball linked ammunition. Group has signed a strategic agreement space at a greatly reduced cost and with Gold Coast company Gilmour Space infrastructure footprint,” she said. Technologies to research propulsion, Minister for Defence Industry materials and avionics and other Melissa Price added that it will open defence-related technologies to develop opportunities for Australian companies Icon SI wins a three-stage hybrid rocket to launch to offer space capabilities to the ADF small payloads and satellites. and commercial customers. “Recent $10m contract Minister for Defence, Linda Reynolds advancements in the capabilities AUSTRALIAN COMPANY ICON SI said the collaboration demonstrates of micro and nano-satellites, small has been awarded a $US10.07 million the government’s commitment to satellite constellations and additive ($AU13.8m) construction contract as supporting the Australian defence manufacturing present a unique part of the US Force Posture Initiatives industry. “Technology advances have opportunity for Defence and Australian (USFPI). The US Naval Facilities allowed rocket systems and launch industry,” she said. Command Pacific contract will see Icon SI construct an earth-covered magazine facility at RAAF Base Tindal. visualisation systems, and their human USFPIs are an extension of Australia’s RUAG’s next-gen users within the manufacturing system. existing Defence alliance with the US. The move to full interconnectivity at The objectives of the initiatives are technology RUAG’s Hydraulic Centre of Excellence, to improve interoperability between RUAG AUSTRALIA HAS announced housed at its Bayswater facility, Australian and US armed forces, provide the acquisition of next-generation generates significantly improved opportunities to engage with partners technology to convert its machine shop efficiencies as it creates a new human- in the Indo-Pacific, promote regional into a state-of-the-art, interconnected, to-machine interface. stability and better posture both nations data-driven environment to support The company combines engineering to respond to contingencies such as the development of customer supply expertise with landing gear hydraulic humanitarian assistance and disaster chain processes, including those for actuator manufacture, maintenance, relief operations. Infrastructure and Joint Strike Fighter F-35 hydraulic repair and overhaul, and metal facilities development under the USFPI components. treatment and finishing in its role as a will be concentrated between Robertson Industry 4.0 brings with it the next- DASR Part 145, DASR Part 21J, EASA Barracks, RAAF Base Darwin and RAAF level advancement of interconnectivity Part 145, CASA Part 145, NADCAP, Base Tindal as well as training areas and between devices, equipment, tools, and AS9100D approved organisation. ranges in the Northern Territory.

20 | SPRING 2020 Veteran employment award for AeroPM High-altitude balloon trials IN AN ONLINE ceremony in May, The trials aim to demonstrate AeroPM was named Outstanding Australian designed and developed Veterans’ Employer of the Year and launch capabilities that can deliver and the Veteran’s Employer of the Year, maintain sensor payloads to an altitude Medium-Sized business by Prime that significantly improves situational Minister Scott Morrison. awareness over a wide area. AeroPM was founded in 2014 by CEO Possessing high altitude balloons Emily Frizell, who had served 16 years as part of Australia’s sovereign in the RAAF. In 2018, when AeroPM capability means advanced sensors gained acceptance on the Defence can be deployed into the atmosphere Support Services Panel, she was joined quickly and cost-effectively, providing by husband and general manager Adam comprehensive battlespace awareness Frizell, who had served 22 years in the to our forces. RAAF. This year, AeroPM engaged its A 3D printed version of Jasper, 50th employee and currently maintains an award-winning animated character a veteran employment rate of over 90%. developed by Air Force to encourage “We are proud that our people display the highest re-engagement more children to pursue STEM careers, rates within Defence Industry and that was filmed as she soared into the stratosphere on one of the balloons. we are well known for our transparency THE FIRST OF a series of high- and accountability. The award really did altitude balloon trials was successfully recognise that our point of difference launched at West Wyalong, NSW, in is our people,” Ms Frizell said. early June. ABOVE Jasper enjoying the ride.

Every aspect of Astra Aerolab is designed to uplift performance.

With outstanding integration of technology and lifestyle, and co-location with RAAF Base Williamtown and Newcastle Airport, this is a unique opportunity to join the world’s leading aerospace precinct.

Leasing opportunities now available.

+61 431 380 507 UPLIFTING [email protected] Newcastle Airport, RAAF Base Williamtown, OPPORTUNITY NSW, Australia

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 21 INDUSTRY. NEWCASTLE AIRPORT LOFTY AMBITIONS NEWCASTLE AIRPORT AIMS TO NOT ONLY BECOME A GLOBAL GATEWAY INTO NORTHERN NSW, BUT TO DEVELOP A WORLD-LEADING DEFENCE AND AEROSPACE PRECINCT ON ITS DOORSTEP.

PART FROM ITS innovation is the very least our region TRADITIONAL and long- deserves.” standing role, Newcastle Established in 1947, Newcastle airport has more recently Airport started life as Williamtown Aexpanded its influence through Civilian Airport next door to RAAF Base the development of a world-class Williamtown on land leased from the aerospace and defence technical park Department of Defence. Little more adjacent to both itself and RAAF Base than a tin shed, the tiny airport was Williamtown. The centrepiece of the destined for great things. With the city airport’s 76 hectares of expansion of Newcastle just 30 minutes down the land is Astra Aerolab, which will see road and working in partnership with the the creation of a working environment RAAF, it has seen continued expansion. that will attract a globally significant RAAF Base Williamtown has become a milestone one million passengers workforce to the region. That Australia’s premier air combat base and through the terminal for the first time. ambition has been bolstered through the operational and sustainment hub The airport has continued to develop NSW Government support and the for the tactical fighter and support and in 2016, it extended its head lease announcement in May of a Special fleets. In parallel, Newcastle airport has for 60 years. In 2019, Newcastle Airport Activation Precinct at Williamtown. grown into an international airport and welcomed a record 1.284 million people CEO Dr Peter Cock is unapologetic key regional asset. through the terminal. about his organisation’s grand plans. In 2006, Jetstar chose Newcastle Newcastle, serviced by Jetstar, Virgin “Some may see our aspirations for Airport as its base for A320 heavy Australia, QantasLink, Regional Express the airport and the region as lofty,” he maintenance, driving ongoing economic and FlyPelican, offers daily direct flights says. “On the contrary, we feel a truly and employment outcomes for the to Brisbane, Melbourne, Gold Coast, international airport and world-class region. In 2007, the airport welcomed Sydney, Canberra, Ballina and Dubbo

22 | SPRING 2020 and onward to more than 57 direct Australia’s ability to deliver world- worldwide destinations. The airport class sustainment and manufacturing launched direct flights to Auckland, capability to the Defence sector. The New Zealand in November 2018. location offers unprecedented airside access to the growing RAAF combat CODE E RUNWAY fleet, including the F-35A Lightning Strike fighter, F/A-18 Hornets and the One of the key projects to increase the Boeing E-7A Wedgetail. connectivity of the Hunter Region and Astra Aerolab sits adjacent to key Northern NSW to the rest of the world defence industry participants, including is to upgrade the runway shared with core defence contractors such as Boeing, RAAF Williamtown to Code E status – BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin. widening from 45m to 60m. “Astra presents a revolutionary The upgrade and terminal expansion approach to workspaces in our own will enable wide-bodied, long-haul backyard. It heralds a new era for our aircraft to use the airfield. That will not region, as we grow our capability to only take locals to where they need to welcome some of the world’s most go, but also bring the rest of the world elite aerospace and defence industry to the region. organisations to be part of this globally Additionally, direct connection by air significant development. We are opens freight routes, allowing existing seeing history in the making as Astra industries access to new markets and comes to life,” says Dr Cock. providing a catalyst for new industrial Astra has begun to take shape. The development in the region. NSW Government contributed $11.8 “This current constraint limits the million to the development under the potential of our region, reducing our Growing Local Economies program, connections to the world’s fastest established under the Restart NSW growing economies,” says Dr Cock. Fund. Construction of a new access “Upgrading the airport to Code E road, clearing and site preparation status will connect the Hunter Region began in May. By year’s end, new and Northern NSW to the rest of roads, roundabouts and infrastructure the world, reinvigorating the visitor will be in place, ready to welcome economy and delivering jobs and tenants to the world-class facility. growth. It will also ensure NSW has With continued support from three international airports by the end government and the region, the airport ABOVE Today's Newcastle Airport terminal. of the decade, allowing us to take full team is determined to ensure that advantage of the globalised economy as Australia moves into recovery, when borders reopen.” Newcastle Airport continues to build LEFT The original terminal, the Tin Shed. Not surprisingly, there is enormous on its two keystone projects to unlock and enthusiastic local community economic potential, connect the demand from both leisure and business region to the rest of the world and travellers for Newcastle Airport to drive real change. expand passenger services to include Newcastle Airport chair Kirby Clark direct international flights to a wide sums up the team’s ambitions: “In the range of destinations. past, Newcastle could be accused of The upgrade will build on budgeted being too meek in stating its case for defence maintenance work planned public and private investment. For too to start in mid-2021. long we have held our ambitions in check, satisfied with being a regional ASTRA AEROLAB town with regional ambitions. Perhaps As well as the critical runway upgrade, because we were used to being Newcastle Airport’s other key focus told that, as a second city, we had is developing and expanding its to wait our turn. Newcastle Airport Defence and Aerospace Precinct – is determined to work with regional Astra Aerolab. Co-located with RAAF leaders at all levels to change that Base Williamtown and the airport, thinking and drive the intergenerational Astra Aerolab is designed to enhance change we need.”

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 23 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY. P-8A POSEIDON

MARITIME SURVEILLANCE

BASED ON THE BOEING B737-800, THE responsible for effective employment of the aircraft sensors and weapons P-8A POSEIDON IS A CRITICAL ELEMENT to complete the tactical mission • Electronic Warfare Operator – OF AUSTRALIA’S FUTURE MARITIME responsible for operation of the PATROL AND RESPONSE STRATEGY. aircraft’s electronic sensors and analysis of electronic data derived from onboard maritime surveillance and protection and external sensors ROJECT AIR 7000 was throughout Australia’s maritime • Acoustic Warfare Operator – established to deliver a mixed approaches and areas of interest. The responsible for the operation fleet of piloted and remotely aircraft is equipped with impressive of acoustic sensors and analysis piloted aircraft to replace technical attributes integrated to deliver of target acoustic data to support PAustralia’s AP-3C Orion aircraft. flexibility, responsiveness and an attack the tactical mission. On 21 February 2014, the Australian capability in the prosecution of anti- The P-8A’s advanced sensor fit includes Government approved the purchase submarine and anti-surface warfare, maritime radar, electro-optics and an of eight P-8A Poseidon aircraft. The maritime surveillance and search-and- acoustic system that has the ability acquisition of an additional four was rescue primary roles. to effectively search large expanses approved in March 2016. Based on the proven commercial of ocean. The potent combination of Operated by No.11 and No.292 design of Boeing’s 737-800 fuselage, sensors and both sub-surface and surface Squadrons based at RAAF Base the P-8A is built from the ground up weapons provides a joint maritime Edinburgh, the P-8A is a modern, as a military aircraft. It was substantially commander with a variety of response highly reliable aircraft derived from the modified to include a weapons bay, options. The range and flexibility of the Boeing B737-800 airliner, modified to under-wing and under-fuselage weapon weapon system was exemplified by a incorporate maritime surveillance and hard points, as well as strengthening to short-notice search-and-rescue mission attack capabilities. enable sustained low-level operations conducted in the Southern Indian Ocean, The P-8A together with the MQ-4C and turn manoeuvres beyond the normal close to the coast of Reunion Island, Triton Unmanned Aerial System are certified limit of commercial transports. that successfully aided recovery of two critical elements of Australia’s future The aircraft is also fitted with an air-to-air stricken sailing vessels and their crews. maritime patrol and response strategy. refuelling capability. Australia now has the full fleet of 12 A crew of up to 10 operates the OPERATIONAL HIGH POINTS Poseidon aircraft under the command of P-8A Poseidon, roles include: During Exercise RIMPAC, Hawaii in No.92 Wing and expects to declare Full • Pilot and Co-pilot – responsible for safe 2018, Poseidon effectively integrated Operational Capability by mid-2022. and effective operation of the aircraft with the joint force and demonstrated The P-8A is a potent, highly versatile in all phases of flight its preparedness by prosecuting anti- and reliable aircraft designed to conduct • T actical and Co-tactical Coordinator – submarine warfare tactics against

24 | SPRING 2020 with and support Australian and P-8A SPECIFICATIONS International Maritime Task Forces is crucial to the development of integrated WINGSPAN: 37.64m Joint Force tactics and procedures. HEIGHT: 12.83m

FUTURE STATE LENGTH: 39.47m In alignment with the Chief of Air Force’s intent, SRG continues to make a PROPULSION: two CFM56-7B engines significant contribution to air and space 27,300lbs thrust each power as part of the Joint Force. As such SRG continues to embrace Air Force’s MAX SPEED: 907kph transformative approach – into a fighting regional country and allied assets. Of force that capitalises on the introduction RANGE: 1,200nm with 4hrs on station note, the Poseidon participated in live-fire of modern technology systems to exercises and successfully employed Mk- CEILING: 41,000ft (12,496m) support future maritime operations. 54 Torpedoes against a submerged target MARITIME SRG has developed significantly and an AGM-84 Harpoon against a retired MAXIMUM TAKE-OFF GROSS and will continue to evolve; to best United States Navy frigate. WEIGHT: 85,819kg exploit the P-8As capabilities when The P-8A Poseidon conducts routine operating in synergy with the MQ-4C deployments in support of Operation WEAPONS: with 11 weapon stations Triton UAS, as part of an integrated ARGOS, the ADF contribution to enforce (five in the weapons bay, four under Maritime Intelligence, Surveillance and sanctions against North Korea in support Reconnaissance Family of Systems. the wings and two under the fuselage), of United Nations Security Resolution Together, the P-8A Poseidon and MQ- it can carry over 10,000kg of weapons. 2397. The mission involves surveillance 4C Triton platforms will provide Australia All hard points are fitted with digital patrols of regional waters to monitor and with one of the most advanced maritime deter illegal ship-to-ship transfers. weapon interfaces. patrol and surveillance capabilities in In October 2019, 92 Wing deployed the world. COMMUNICATIONS SUITE: over 10 a Poseidon to the Middle East for the first time for Operation MANITOU. The separate radios and data links across the capability played a key role in supporting VHF, UHF, HF and SATCOM spectrums. ABOVE LEFT RAAF Flight Lieutenant Ike Brady freedom of navigation and the free from No.11 Squadron carries out pre-flight checks flow of shipping in the region as an on a P-8A during Operation Bushfire Assist. element of Australia’s contribution to the Photo: CPL Brenton Kwaterski ©DoD. International Maritime Security Construct. In 2018, the P-8A Poseidon deployed to RMAF Butterworth in Malaysia OPPOSITE RAAF P-8A Poseidon UNIPAC II in support of Operation GATEWAY; drop training exercise over St Vincent Gulf, SA. the ADFs longest enduring operation Photo: CPL Brenton Kwaterski ©DoD. which contributes to the preservation of regional security and stability in Southeast Asia. In short, the P-8A capabilities and flexibility provides Australia with a range of response options and deployment profiles. The flexibility of the platform and its highly trained crews was further demonstrated during Operation Bushfire Assist. The Poseidon conducted surveillance support operations in the RAAF Airmen Corporal Victorian alpine region, regional New Josh Golding and Leading South Wales and Kangaroo Island in Aircraftwoman Tiane South Australia, occasionally operating for Hoffmann in front of a P-8A more than 10 hours in a single mission. Poseidon at Australia’s The P-8A Poseidon also participates main operating base in the Middle East region. Photo in both local and international exercise LSIS Craig Walton ©DoD. activity where the ability to integrate

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 25 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY. E-7A WEDGETAIL

THE BIG PICTURE

DEFENCE’S EYE IN The E-7A Wedgetail platform is based on the Boeing Business Jet, DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT Australia recognised a need for an THE SKY, THE E-7A IS a 737-700IGW airframe variant of the airborne early warning and control aircraft Boeing 737 Next Generation airliner. in the 1990s. In 1996, the government A COMPLETE BATTLE Implementation of Wedgetail mission sought tenders for Project Wedgetail systems is innovative, unconventional MANAGEMENT and in 2000 the contract was awarded and unique with an antenna design to Boeing Integrated Defence Systems. SYSTEM, CAPABLE built around an evolved variant of the Under the $3.8 billion contract (in Northrup Grumman Electronic Systems OF COVERING AN today’s terms), Boeing and Northrop multirole electronically scanned array Grumman teamed with Boeing Australia AREA THE SIZE (MESA) radar, dubbed the “top hat”. and BAE Systems Australia. Boeing The complex antenna arrangement Australia provides training, maintenance OF WESTERN has not been used in any other design and support for the aircraft while and offers a much smaller, lighter and AUSTRALIA IN A 10- BAE provides electronic warfare self- lower drag antenna array that allows protection, electronic support measures HOUR MISSION. for a smaller and cheaper narrow-body structure. The MESA radar and 10 and ground support systems. The result is the delivery of an airborne early ERALDED AS ONE of the state-of-the-art mission crew consoles most strategically important provides a capability to track airborne warning and control platform that is the purchases ever made by the and maritime targets simultaneously. envy of air forces worldwide. Australian Defence Force, the Capable of rapid and extended-range The RAAF has six E-7A Wedgetail HE-7A Wedgetail has the ability to survey, deployment with in-flight refuelling, aircraft, operated by No.2 Squadron command, control and coordinate a joint the E-7A Wedgetail has proven highly based at RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW, air, sea and land battle as it is prosecuted. reliable and effective on operations. An with additional deployment facilities At the core of its success is the E-7A’s E-7A Wedgetail cruising at an altitude of at RAAF Base Tindal, NT. The RAAF ability to gather information from a wide 10,000m can maintain surveillance over E-7A platform achieved Initial Operating variety of sources, analyse it and then a surface area of 400,000sq.km. Over Capability in November 2012 and Full distribute it to all friendly air and surface a 10-hour mission, it can cover more Operational Capability in 2015. assets. As such, the E-7A can control the than four million square kilometres, an tactical battle space; providing direction area the size of Western Australia. As OPERATIONAL HIGH POINTS to fighter aircraft, surface combatants and the ADF’s ‘eye in the sky’; the E-7A is The E-7A Wedgetail has showcased its land- and sea-based elements, as well as a complete battle management system strength and agility during Operation supporting aircraft such as tankers and that allows the ADF to see the big OKRA several times since October 2014 intelligence platforms. picture as it happens. as part of the Air Task Group. At OKRA,

26 | SPRING 2020 Wedgetail crews have been responsible No.2 Squadron association members, E-7A SPECIFICATIONS for command and control of all coalition with some marking the 50th anniversary aircraft in a ‘battle management area’ – of their contribution to the Vietnam WINGSPAN: 33.6m a position of leadership and trust that is conflict. No.2 Squadron was awarded reflective of the strength and capability of a Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry and a HEIGHT: 12.6m the asset. Crews regularly managed more United States Air Force Outstanding Unit LENGTH: 34.3m than 80 combat aircraft during a single Commendation. It also received a US mission and have conducted record- Presidential Unit Citation for service in PROPULSION: two CFM56-7B engines breaking endurance sorties for their World War II. The Squadron’s efforts had 27,300lbs thrust each aircraft type. been previously acknowledged with the In an integrated force, the E-7A 2018 Duke of Gloucester Cup award for MAX SPEED: 870kph shares information with other deployed outstanding achievement as “the RAAF’s elements, allowing crews to monitor most proficient flying unit” supporting CEILING: 41,000ft (12,496m) progress of the air and ground battle. E-7A operations. For example, they have exploited the The important partnerships and MESA RADAR RANGE: in excess increased situational awareness to successful collaboration with the Airborne of 400km dynamically re-position refuelling aircraft Early Warning and Control System as close as possible to Australia’s Super Program Office (Capability Acquisition Electronic warfare self-protection Hornets and other coalition strike aircraft, and Sustainment Group) and Defence measures that maximise the effectiveness reducing the refuelling time between industry partners have contributed to the of the E-7A comprise directed infra- tactical engagements. effectiveness and operational success red, chaff and flare counter-measures A RAAF E-7A Wedgetail made history of the platform. for the longest Australian command and The Wedgetail platform significantly and communications systems control mission in a war zone during a multiplies the effectiveness of existing including HF, VHF, UHF, Link-11, recent combat mission in the Middle East Navy, Army and Air Force, and will help Link-16, UHF SATCOM integrated Region (MER). At 17.3 hours, the mission Australia maintain a capability edge well through a comprehensive Interphone entailed command and control of large into the future. Communications System. numbers of coalition aircraft, and the crew completed two air-to-air refuels. Since then No.2 Squadron has completed 17 OPPOSITE An E-7A Wedgetail and F/A-18F rotations of personnel into the MER and Super Hornet fly aft of a KC-30A Multi Role Tanker has a mission success rate above 94%. Transport as part of Operation OKRA. Photo: CPL The E-7A’s participation in international Brenton Kwaterski ©DoD. exercise activity has maintained and strengthened Air Force’s relationships A Royal Australian Air Force E-7A with our coalitional partners and BELOW Wedgetail arrives at the Australian Defence contributed to increased levels of Force's main operating base in the Middle East interoperability. region. Photo: CPL Dan Pinhorn ©DoD. During Exercise Cope North in 2020, No.2 Squadron personnel were exposed to a complex battlespace environment, providing them with familiarity in RAAF Airmen Corporal monitoring and controlling a range of Josh Golding and Leading different aircraft types and providing Aircraftwoman Tiane coalition partners a greater understanding Hoffmann in front of a P-8A Poseidon at Australia’s of the Wedgetail’s capability. Working in main operating base in the collaboration in the same air space with Middle East region. Photo the US and Japanese partners provided LSIS Craig Walton ©DoD. important training outcomes, delivering a stronger and more effective coalition force for years to come. Important Defence industry partnerships and a culture of excellence have also been key to the operational effectiveness of the E-7A Wedgetail, celebrating 10 years of RAAF service in 2020. It is also a significant year for

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 27 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY. SURVEILLANCE

collection and showcased the evolution of exploitation tool development for near real-time automated target detection. Jonathan Neumann, a NRL scientist integrated with the DST Group team, says the partnership has been valuable for his team. “There are limits to what we can accomplish back in the US, DST NOWHERE Group nicely complements what our research is aiming to achieve,” he says. The partnership has included experiments of direct relevance to Australian and US Defence problem spaces, including supporting the Australian AIR7000 and US PMA290 programs. “DST’s DEAP aircraft, which has flight-certified pods custom-built for mounting sensors, was certainly a key enabler for the program. Recent flight TO HIDE trials, including experiments in tropical North Queensland, were exceptional. The DEAP aircraft carried dual reflective predominantly used in the daytime, (daytime) and thermal hyperspectral HYPERSPECTRAL but a thermal hyperspectral sensor payloads, enabling our respective teams SURVEILLANCE IS currently operating on DST’s Defence to do everything necessary to support Experimentation Airborne Platform the trial objectives.” COMING, READY (known as the DEAP aircraft) gives OR NOT. us a 24-hour capability.” EXCITING POSSIBILITIES Another winning feature with this A key focus of research has been type of sensing is its passive nature, to demonstrate to Defence the unique YPERSPECTRAL IMAGING allowing users to scan the environment capability that hyperspectral technology EXPLOITS the unique accurately and silently from safe offers: the remote identification spectral characteristics of standoff distances. The team’s research of materials by a passive collector. targets to aid in detection has coupled fundamental signature The experiments carried out by Bubner Hand identification of materials. Defence measurements using both lab and and colleagues, who are keen to see Science and Technology (DST) Group field-based spectrometers, with high- the uptake of the technology, have defence scientist Tim Bubner says it is performance hyperspectral sensors informed Defence of the wavebands, very hard to hide from spectral sensors in airborne trials. Those trials have spectral resolution, pixel size and other which scan across multiple electro- demonstrated proof of concept for data parameters that should be considered optical frequency bands. “While artificial camouflage does the job matching the surrounding environment in the visible spectrum, it actually can make you stand out in the other bands, if you can exploit them.” Bubner’s team has been collaborating with a team from the US Naval Research Laboratories (NRL) for several years, honing skills in exploiting hyperspectral phenomenology and developing state of the art sensor technology and systems, for use in airborne surveillance. “Hyperspectral sensing is unique,” says Bubner. “Very seldom can you create camouflage that defeats all the wave bands that are accessible to us. In the past, hyperspectral sensors were

28 | SPRING 2020 when defining future capability options. Underlying it all is an understanding that hyperspectral sensing is an evolutionary and complementary enhancement over persistent or high-resolution motion imagery video snapshots. DST Group defence scientist Gavin Fowler, Intelligence, Surveillance and Space Division explains that it’s much more than just looking at a picture. “Hyperspectral sensing provides an understanding of the target materials’ properties which is not available from other imagery. We’re working with high-performance thermal and extremely long-range, short-wave IR hyperspectral systems for surveillance tasks including maritime surveillance, target detection in cluttered environments and stand- off gas plume detection from passive stand-off distances. If we can retrieve the spectral characteristics of the target, analysts get a much better understanding of what’s happening on the ground. friendship that builds up is critical to “The other real strength of our collaborative success. It’s been a classic system is that it allows for automated partnership, allowing DST to build an processing. You can have an onboard indigenous capability that our partners processor which can auto-detect, can engage with. identify and geolocate. We’ve “Because it’s been an integrated demonstrated automated stand-off team, we’ve all been learning from each detection of invisible gas plumes in other. Everyone’s got such a variety near real-time and automated anomaly of skills and experience – it’s a real detection in the maritime environment. melting pot of technologists, sensor “A main theme for us now is operators, engineers, image-exploitation to promote how Defence can use experts and spectroscopy specialists. hyperspectral sensing, by showing how That variety of skills and expertise has we can insert these products into an allowed us to fulfil the outcomes we’ve DEAP Aircraft. enterprise level situation awareness been demonstrating.” TOP capability – into the bigger picture. It is the sort of collaboration DST Group ABOVE DEAP sensors. That’s the next big challenge. will be promoting under the new Defence “No sensor will provide all the S&T strategy “More, Together”. answers but we’ve reached a level of While it’s the technical challenges and LEFT 3-band false colour SWIR hyperspectral image. maturity with these that allows us to the opportunity to work with state-of- say, ‘If you had these sensors you could the-art sensors and technology that gets work out if that was a life jacket anomaly Bubner out of bed and into the DST labs, at sea or camouflage net in natural hide, Fowler gets great joy from bringing it all or that there is an invisible gas plume in together into an integrated system and this location’.” then “getting out there" to demonstrate it in a variety of scenarios in some EMBEDDED PARTNERS challenging and unique locations. "You For Bubner, having Neumann and his don’t get that in a regular office job.” US colleagues embedded in the team The US engagement for this at Edinburgh has been crucial. “They research happened under the Coalition haven’t just come across for program Warfare Program, while the DST team meetings, we’ve been doing real ridgy- was funded under various Defence didge work, side by side. The trust and programs.

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 29 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY. SEASAT EARLY EARTH OBSERVATIONS FROM SPACE

subsystem data, an 800kbps playback LAUNCHED IN 1978, SEASAT COLLECTED stream of recorded real-time data, and a 20MHz analog SAR (synthetic-aperture MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OCEAN radar) instrument data stream. SeaSat was not equipped with an PHYSICS IN 105 DAYS THAN HAD BEEN onboard recorder, so three US and COLLECTED IN THE PREVIOUS 100 YEARS. two international ground stations downlinked data from the satellite in real time: Fairbanks, Alaska; Goldstone, California; Merritt Island, Florida; Shoe HE SEASAT MISSION imaging radars flown on NASA's Space Cove, Newfoundland; and Oakhanger, pioneered satellite oceanography Shuttle, altimeters on Earth-orbiting United Kingdom. and proved the viability of satellites such as TOPEX/Poseidon, SAR data from SeaSat was acquired imaging radar for studying our and scatterometers (microwave radar digitally and most of it was optically Tplanet. The mission was designed to sensors used to measure the reflection processed into survey data products, demonstrate the feasibility of global or scattering effect produced while available on 70mm film. The SeaSat satellite monitoring of oceanographic scanning the surface of Earth) on 100km swath data was processed into phenomena and help determine the ADEOS I, QuikSCAT and Jason-1. four 25km wide products at JPL. A small requirements for an operational ocean percentage of the data was digitally remote sensing satellite system. UNIQUE DATA processed. Those products contain the In 1969, a group of engineers and SeaSat, the first satellite dedicated complete 100km wide swath of data. scientists from many institutions came to establishing the utility of microwave After acquisition, the data was together at a conference in Williamstown, sensors for the remote sensing of originally archived on 39-track raw data Massachusetts, USA, to study how Earth’s oceans, collected a unique set tapes. To ensure data preservation, those satellites could be used to improve of synoptic data on ocean winds, waves, tapes were duplicated in 1988 and again our knowledge of the oceans. In the temperature and topography. After the in 1999. During the second transcription, 1970s, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory equivalent of 100 work years of intensive the raw telemetry data was transferred (JPL) engineers and scientists realised analysis of a relatively small subset of onto 29 more modern SONY SD1-1300L the sensors they were developing for that data, a multidisciplinary team of 19mm tapes. interplanetary missions could be turned scientists, engineers and analysts has on Earth to better understand our planet. concluded that the majority of goals for TRUE PIONEER NASA began planning for the SeaSat measuring geophysical parameters were SeaSat collected more information about mission three years later, as the first met. Consequently, the overall project ocean physics in its brief life than had multi-sensor spacecraft dedicated to objective: to demonstrate the concept been collected in the previous 100 years observing Earth’s ocean. A broad user of a global, nearly all-weather, microwave of shipboard research. The spacecraft group, numerous NASA centres (JPL built ocean surveillance capability, had been established satellite oceanography and the experimental satellite called SeaSat) accomplished. proved the viability of several radar and industry partners worked together, Data was transmitted from the satellite sensors, including imaging radar, for culminating in a launch in June 1978. in three separate streams: 25kbps studying our planet. The SeaSat mission Many of SeaSat’s technologies real-time stream containing instrument spawned many subsequent Earth became legendary, as their useful data from ALT (radar altimeter), SASS remote-sensing satellites that track datasets became invaluable in our (SeaSat – a satellite scatterometer), changes in Earth’s ocean, land and ice, understanding of Earth system science. SMMR (scanning multichannel including many currently in orbit or in Many later remote sensing missions microwave radiometer) and VIRR (visible development. The advances gained benefited from SeaSat's legacy including infrared radiometer) and all engineering through SeaSat have been applied to

30 | SPRING 2020 SEASAT SPACECRAFT LEFT Artist’s concept of Jason and TOPEX/ SeaSat was the first Earth-orbiting satellite designed for remote sensing Poseidon working in tandem. of the Earth's oceans. It had a mass of 2,300k and carried the first spaceborne synthetic-aperture radar (SAR). Specific objectives were to collect data on missions studying other planets as well. sea-surface winds, sea-surface temperatures, Stan Wilson, post-SeaSat NASA wave heights, internal waves, atmospheric program manager, says the mission water, sea ice features and ocean topography. demonstrated the potential value of ocean microwave observations. “As a SeaSat was managed by NASA's Jet result, at least 50 satellites have been Propulsion Laboratory and was launched on launched by more than a dozen space 27 June 1978 into a nearly circular 800km agencies to carry microwave instruments orbit with an inclination of 108°. SeaSat to observe the ocean,” he says. operated until 10 October 1978, when a “In addition, we have two continuing massive short circuit in the Agena-D bus records of critical climate change in the electrical system ended the mission. ocean that are impacting society today: diminishing ice cover in the Arctic and rising global sea level. What greater legacy could a mission have?” Bill Townsend, SeaSat radar altimeter experiment manager, says SeaSat flew long enough to fully demonstrate its groundbreaking remote sensing technologies. “Its early death permitted the limited available resources to be marshaled toward processing and analysing its approximately 100-day data set,” he says. “This led to other systems, both nationally and internationally, that continued SeaSat’s legacy, enabling SeaSat technologies to be used to better understand climate change.” With further processing from the Alaska SAR Facility, scientists will be able to travel back in time to research the ocean, sea ice, volcanoes,AUSTRALIA’S forests, land LEADING STEM PROVIDER cover, glaciers and more. Previously, only about 20% of SeaSat SAR data had been digitally processed.

Australia’s– Preparing your leadingWorkforce of the Future. STEM provider Preparing your Workforce

of the Future. INVESTING IN TOMORROW TODAY www.onegiantleapaustralia.com

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 31 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY. SEASAT

“The short 100-day SeaSat mission SeaSat demonstrated the benefit of are now,” says Gary Lagerloef of Earth provided a moment of epiphany to using radiometer measurements of water & Space Research, Seattle, principal remind people that the vast ocean is vapor to correct altimeter measurements investigator of NASA’s Aquarius mission best accessed from space,” says Lee- of sea surface height by simultaneously to map ocean surface salinity. Lueng Fu, JPL senior research scientist flying a radiometer with a radar altimeter. SeaSat’s SAR also provided and project scientist for the NASA/ The accuracy of altimeter readings is spectacular images of Earth’s land French Space Agency Jason-1 satellite affected by water vapor, which delays surfaces and geology. Datasets from and NASA’s planned Surface Water and the time it takes for the altimeter’s SeaSat were used to pioneer radar Ocean Topography mission. signals to make their round trip to the interferometry, which uses microwave The scatterometer instrument provided ocean surface and back. energy pulses sent to the ground to the first real-time global map of the speed detect land surface changes, such as and direction of ocean winds that drive A RICH HERITAGE those created by earthquakes, and waves and currents and are the major All subsequent NASA/European satellite measure land surface topography. link between the ocean and atmosphere. altimetry missions have used that During the 1980s and 1990s, three Other missions, such as JPL’s NASA technique. SeaSat’s legacy continued in JPL Shuttle Imaging Radar experiments Scatterometer, Quikscat spacecraft, the radiometer, scatterometer and SAR flew on the Space Shuttle. JPL’s Shuttle SeaWinds instrument on Japan’s Midori for NASA’s Soil Moisture Active Passive Radar Topography Mission used the 2 spacecraft and the OSCAT instrument mission to measure global soil moisture, technology to create the world’s most on India’s Oceansat-2, also used the launched in 2014. detailed topographic measurements of technology first tested on SeaSat. Sea ice, and its role in controlling more than 80% of Earth’s land surface Data from those instruments helps to Earth’s climate, was also part of in 2000. Currently, JPL’s Uninhabited forecast hurricanes, tropical storms and SeaSat’s oceanographic mission. The Aerial Vehicle Synthetic Aperture Radar El Nino events. SAR instrument provided the first high- (UAVSAR) airborne imaging radar system Precise measurements of sea surface resolution images of sea ice, measuring for a wide variety of Earth studies is using height used to study climate phenomena its movement, deformation and age. the technology. such as El Nino and La Nina have been The SAR also monitored the global SeaSat’s demonstration of spaceborne made since SeaSat using advanced surface wave field and revealed many repeat-pass radar interferometry to ocean altimeters on the NASA/European oceanic and atmospheric related measure minute Earth surface motions Topex/Poseidon and Jason missions. phenomena, from current boundaries has led to a new field of space geodetic Jason-3, the latest Jason mission, to eddies and internal waves. Currently, imaging, says Paul Rosen, JPL project launched in 2015, continued the 20-plus- SAR and scatterometers are used to scientist for a future NASA L-band SAR year climate data record. Weather and monitor Earth’s ice from space. spacecraft currently under study, and it climate models, ship routing, marine “It’s hard to imagine where we would forms the basis for his mission. mammal studies, fisheries management be without the radiometer pioneered on “Together with international L-band and offshore operations have all been SeaSat, but certainly much further behind SAR sensors we have the opportunity improved using satellite altimetry. in critical Earth observations than we in the next five years to create a 40-year observation record of land-use change where overlapping observations exist,” he says. “These time-lapse images of change will provide fascinating insights into urban growth, agricultural patterns and other signs of human-induced changes over decades and climate LEFT Jason data taken change in the polar regions.” during a 10-day collection JPL’s Magellan mission, which mapped cycle ending 3 July 2003. Red 99% of the previously hidden surface of areas show the sea-surface Venus, and the Titan radar onboard the height is about 10cm above JPL-built and managed Cassini orbiter to normal, white areas 14-32cm Saturn both used SeaSat technology. above normal, blue areas are 5-13cm below normal, and Tom Nolan, retired earth scientist, the purple areas 14-18cm below normal. Such data NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory is used for predictions of phenomena such as El Nino To learn more, go to jpl.nasa.gov/ and the Pacific Decadal missions/seasat or go to https://nssdc. Oscillation. gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/SpacecraftQuery and search ‘SeaSat’.

32 | SPRING 2020 KEY INSTRUMENTS BELOW SeaSat image of oceanic phenomena in the Gulf of Mexico. Image: NASA. SeaSat carried five major instruments designed to return the maximum information from ocean surfaces. • Radar altimeter to measure spacecraft height above the ocean surface. • Microwave scatterometer to measure wind speed and direction. • Scanning multichannel microwave radiometer to measure sea surface temperature. • Visible and infrared radiometer to identify cloud, land and water features. • Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) L-band, HH polarization, fixed look angle to monitor the global surface wave field and polar sea ice. The SAR support structure was designed and manufactured by Northrop Grumman Astro Aerospace in Carpinteria, California. The structure deployed once on orbit.

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 33 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY. SR-71

FIGHTING THE COLD WAR FROM 85,000 FEET

WORDS Bob Treloar, based on a presentation to the Flight Test Society of Australia by Russell Szczepanik, Blackbird Pilot

34 | WINTER 2020 ENTERING SERVICE IN 1964, THE SR-71 FIGHTING BLACKBIRD STILL HOLDS THE WORLD SPEED RECORD SET IN 1976.

UILT TO FIGHT the Cold 14 Guideline missiles had been fired at War, the SR-71 Blackbird the aircraft during the mission. Unable was, and still is, the fastest to activate the aircraft’s self-destruct aeroplane in the world, holding system when thrown free of the aircraft Bthe world speed record it set in 1976. during the explosion, the aircraft was On operations, it outran every missile captured virtually intact by the Soviet fired at it. forces. The invulnerability of America’s The SR-71 Blackbird was a two seat, spy aircraft had been challenged and twin-engined long-range supersonic found wanting – a new generation aircraft built by the Lockheed of aircraft was required. Corporation. It could fly at speeds in excess of Mach 3.2 and at a height greater than 85,000 feet (26km). It was DEVELOPMENT in service from 1964 to 1989, followed The incident had immediate diplomatic by a period of reactivation from 1995 to repercussions and reinforced the need 1998. NASA flew the aircraft during the for a new type of reconnaissance later years of reactivation for its research aircraft that could fly faster and higher, program and the Air Force conducted safe from Soviet surface-to-air missile further reconnaissance missions. systems. The CIA wanted an aircraft It was designed by the Lockheed that could fly above 90,000 feet or Advanced Development Projects thereabouts, at high speed and as Division, otherwise known as the invisible to radar as was feasible. Lockheed Skunk Works, and developed In 1964, US President Lyndon under the highly classified OXCART Johnson announced that the Lockheed reconnaissance program. Advance Development Projects would The onset of the Cold War brought build another strategic reconnaissance down the Iron Curtain and the Western aircraft – one so fast that no other World knew little about Soviet military airplane could reach it. and civilian installations across the The task of designing such an region. It was proposed that the United ambitious machine fell on Clarence States commence reconnaissance “Kelly” Johnson, one of the world's flights over the Soviet Union using the greatest aircraft designers, and his U-2 Dragon Lady. secret division of engineers at the Skunk President Eisenhower, who was Works. “Everything had to be invented. concerned those flights could precipitate Everything,” recalled Johnson, who died a war, was informed that the U-2 flying in 1990, the same year the Blackbirds at 70,000 feet could not be detected by were first retired from service. During Soviet radar. While that was apparently his career Kelly had been responsible the case for American radar systems, for the development of the U-2 and it was not true for the Soviet systems. contributed to the design of more Thus, in 1958 U-2 reconnaissance than 25 other aircraft. flights over Russia commenced, defying The predecessors of the SR-71 destruction by the Soviet air defence Blackbird were the A-12 and YF-12, systems, but not detection. designed to replace the U-2 conducting On 1 May 1960, a U-2 flown by strategic reconnaissance missions over Francis Gary Powers was shot down the USSR. Those aircraft were grouped when hit by one of a salvo of three SA-2 within the OXCART program, funded by Guideline surface-to-air missiles. Some both the CIA and the Air Force.

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.2 | 35 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY. SR-71

In 1961, President Kennedy had upheld a decision made by President Eisenhower the year before that the US would not conduct any further reconnaissance flights over the Soviet Union. That decision, combined with improving Soviet air defence systems and rapidly developing satellite technology, changed the A-12 mission to the conduct of tactical reconnaissance around the globe. Consequently, the A-12’s intended strategic employment never came to fruition. Nevertheless, 13 A-12 Blackbird aircraft were built and they flew reconnaissance missions over Vietnam and North Korea before their retirement aluminium as a basic structural material in 1968. The program’s cancellation was and the Skunk Works team turned MISSION PROFILE announced on 28 December 1966, citing instead to titanium, stainless steel, and The SR-71 was home based at Beale Air budget concerns and the forthcoming other advanced alloys, as well as to high- Force Base, California. Training missions SR-71, a derivative of the A-12. The temperature plastics. were conducted mainly over the designation YF-71 was used to release The result was a truly magnificent western USA and operational missions information to the public as a cover story aircraft. It was 108 feet (33m) long, with were conducted by Detachment 1 at to conceal the existence of the SR-71. a wingspan of 55 feet (17m). It had a Okinawa, Japan, or by Detachment 4 The SR-71 was designed for flight at maximum take-off weight of 170,000 at Mildenhall, United Kingdom. Before speeds over Mach 3 with a flight crew pounds (77,000kg), maximum fuel load operational missions were flown, crews of two in tandem cockpits, whereas of 80,000 pounds (27,215kg) and was underwent extensive training and the A-12 carried only the pilot. In the powered by two Pratt and Whitney J-58 rehearsals in the SR-71 flight simulator. SR-71, the pilot occupied the forward engines, each producing 32,5000 pounds In fact, one pilot, Colonel Richard cockpit and the reconnaissance of thrust with continuous afterburner-ram Graham USAF (Ret’d), said that sitting systems officer the rear cockpit. The jet operations above Mach 2.6. in the aeroplane and being able to look reconnaissance systems officer operated outside seemed strange. the surveillance systems and electronic Missions flown from Okinawa EARLY DEPLOYMENT jamming equipment and directed generally focused on North Vietnam (in The first operational SR-71 aircraft navigation along the mission flight path. the early days); North Korea; Vladivostok arrived at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, The SR-71 was designed to minimise and the Kamchatskly Peninsula, while Japan on 8 March 1968 and flew its its radar cross-section, an early attempt from Mildenhall missions were flown first operational mission over Vietnam at stealth design. However, it could be over the Barents Sea; Baltic Sea; Middle on 21 March. detected by Soviet radar systems and East; and over Germany during the Thirty two SR-71 aircraft were built the exhaust plume from the aircraft conduct of NATO exercises. and 12 were destroyed in accidents, engines increased its susceptibility to A routine mission profile flown by killing one flight-test reconnaissance radar detection. The aircraft were painted the SR-71 included a light-weight take and navigation systems specialist. a dark blue, almost black, to increase off followed soon after with air-to-air None were lost to enemy action. the emission of internal heat and to refuelling from a KC-135 tanker to reduce its visible profile against the night sky. The dark colour led to the aircraft's nickname “Blackbird”. FASTER THAN A SPEEDING BULLET Lockheed engineers faced unique A comparison between a speeding challenges when designing and building rifle bullet and the SR-71 is revealing. the Blackbirds. Aerodynamic friction RIFLE and continuous engine operation during Muzzle velocity: 3,000 feet per second high-speed flight subjected some parts (914.3m per second) of the airplane to temperatures as high SR-71 as 560°C. Average surface temperatures Cruise velocity 3,100+ feet per second ranged from 240°C to 330°C. (944.8m per second) Such heat precluded the use of 56km (35 miles) every minute

36 | SPRING 2020 However, fuel leaks were measured in drips per minute, and were not RUSSELL significant when compared to the overall fuel capacity of the aircraft. SZCZEPANIK From a human perspective, SR-71 Air crew selected to fly the SR-71 were flights were always challenging. The special people. Flight crew selection aircraft was equipped with ejection was extremely strenuous. It required a seats for each crew member and the two crew members wore fire-resistant, volunteer for special duty assignment; full-pressure space suits. Once accepted a Top-Secret clearance; be under 35 into the SR-71 program, the pilot and years of age with fighter experience; reconnaissance systems officer were undertake psychological assessment permanently crewed together and did not fly with other aircrew members. and pass the astronaut physical. Russell Effective crew coordination when flying Szczepanik was one such individual. at two miles every three seconds was In an address to military test pilots considered imperative and crews give the aircraft a range of 2,500 miles in Canberra some four years ago he (4,000km) before rendezvous with trained together, flew together and provided an insight into the life and another KC-135 for further refuelling. virtually lived together. The initial phase of the sortie was At 80,000 feet the outside air pressure challenges of an SR-71 pilot. The normally conducted at subsonic speed was less than ½ psi (sea level pressure mission slides in this article were is 14.7 psi) and while the cockpit before accelerating to supersonic provided from his presentation. flight approaching the area of interest. could be pressurised to an altitude of Russell was a member of the USAF Acceleration to supersonic flight was either 10,000 or 26,000 feet, a cockpit commenced in a slight dive to minimise depressurisation or an ejection would from 1964 until 1989 and during that a high drag area around Mach 1 and then have been a serious affair without a time he qualified on many different space suit as human blood boils at the climbing at 450 knots EAS (equivalent air aircraft types. He flew classified SR-71 speed) to Mach 3 at around 70,000 feet. reduced atmospheric pressure at 60,000 missions at worldwide locations; was Supersonic flights generally lasted no feet. The cockpit temperature was more than 90 minutes before the pilot maintained at 37°C, and the crew could appointed Commander and Director had to find a tanker. adjust the internal temperatures of their of Operations at a foreign SR-71 pressure suits. Some missions lasted for 10 hours operational detachment with total or more, which required five or more responsibility for airborne operational aerial refuellings. During those missions, INTELLIGENCE PRODUCT tubed food was fed to the crew member The SR-71 carried a variety of sensors surveillance, reconnaissance and through the helmet and water supplied including a side-looking Advanced intelligence missions; and directed the through a tube. However, typical Synthetic Aperture Radar and a variety operational deployment for worldwide missions were closer to 2.5 to 4.5 hours of “wet film” cameras in the fuselage SR-71 Blackbird surveillance and and only required one or two refuels. chines along the forward fuselage, or Of the 12 SR-71s that were lost, four in the nose compartment. The radar intelligence operations. were a consequence of tyre failure. had a 12-inch resolution (30cm) and the In the USAF, he was an instructor and Early on, aircraft launched with an cameras had a resolution of between flight examiner for SR-71, RF-4C, F4- 80,000 pounds full fuel load on board. four and five inches (13cm). Those That placed an excessive load on the sensors were capable of “seeing” to D/E/F, T-38 and KC-135 aircraft. tyres during the take-off roll, resulting ranges up to 1,500 miles (2,500km) and In civilian life, Russ was the Business in a failure upon landing. To overcome enabled missions to be conducted day Development lead in Australia for that issue and reduce aircraft losses, or night under all weather conditions. the Air 5077 Wedgetail program. He take-off fuel load was generally reduced Once in an area of interest, flights to 40,000 pounds; a trade-off between were conducted at altitudes in excess transitioned from Seattle to Canberra reducing tyre damage on take-off and of 85,000 feet (27 km), at over Mach and RAAF Base Williamtown for controllability of the aircraft at low speed 3.2, or 63km per minute, and generated the introduction, integration and the immediately after take-off. a sensor coverage of over 100,000 management of the weapons system on There was a misconception that the square miles (260,000sq.km) each hour. aircraft required immediate refuelling The film used in the SR-71’s cameras site at Williamtown. He is a duel citizen after take-off due to leaking fuel tanks. was five inches wide and two miles of the US and Australia.

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 37 sr-71 cockpit WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY. SR-71

long (3.2km). Once an SR-71 returned to base, the photo-maintenance division removed the film and cut it into 500-feet long segments before analysing it. A time-consuming, but a critical process, if the value of the completed mission was to be achieved. While the SR-71, was much more capable than the Lockheed U-2 in terms of range, speed, and survivability, it lacked a data link, which the U-2 had been upgraded to carry. That meant SR- 71 imagery and radar data could not be used in real time, but had to wait until processed on return to base. SPHERE OF ACTIVITY The area of operations for the SR-71 was global and the aircraft earned an impressive military record. The Blackbird flew adjacent to Soviet and Chinese airspace and was well within the sphere of influence of these countries’ military forces. It studied Israeli and Arab troop positions during the 1973 Yom Kippur War; provided post-strike reconnaissance following the US bombing mission against Libya could operate and maintain two tactical those areas to targets that could be in 1986; and had been used over a wide fighter wings. photographed from outside national range of countries, from South Africa The 1980s saw an increase in threats borders. Nor could the SR-71 cover to Nicaragua. capable of countering the SR-71, other nations with the frequency Throughout those missions numerous including improved land based enemy attainable by satellites. missiles were fired at the SR-71, air defences and the introduction of The SR-71 Blackbird is still the fastest however, they were either jammed or the MiG-31, which was armed with aeroplane in the world; some 60 years the Blackbird used its breakaway speed the R-33 air-to-air missile (NATO after its first flight. With constellations of to create a gap that couldn’t be closed. Designation AA 9 Amos), which satellites now meeting national strategic It was reported that the closest a missile could intercept the Blackbird. requirements for intelligence, it is likely ever came to an SR-71 was 1.5 miles. Compared with US photo- that the flight capabilities of the SR-71 reconnaissance/imaging satellites, will never be surpassed. DEMISE OF THE SR-71 reconnaissance aircraft have limitations. Today, you can find some 30 Nothing lasts forever and the SR-71 was Unlike aircraft, satellites are in orbit 24 remaining A-12, YF-12 and SR-71 aircraft no exception. The Air Force decision to hours a day and can overfly every nation in museums and Air Force bases across retire the Blackbirds in 1989 was based on earth without political repercussion. the United States; for example, at the on several factors. In a congressional The SR-71 did not overfly Eastern USAF Museum, in Dayton, Ohio, and testimony on 9 April 1989, Air Force Europe, the Soviet Union or China for the National Air and Space Museum, Chief of Staff Gen. Larry D. Welch political reasons, limiting coverage of in Washington, D.C. identified the increased survivability of reconnaissance satellites, SR-71 vulnerability to the Soviet SAM-5 surface-to-air missile and the cost of COLONEL FRANK STAMPF maintaining the SR-71 fleet. The cost Known among his SR-71 squadron mates for the saying “You haven’t been lost factor was the most significant to the till you’ve been lost at Mach 3!”, Colonel Frank Stampf also came up with the Air Force because it limited expenditure corollary: “because for every minute that you don’t know where you are, you’re in other areas. It was estimated that the money used to operate the SR-71 fleet 35 miles further away from where you think you’re supposed to be!”

40 | SPRING 2020 VIETNAM WAR THE BALTIC INCIDENT From 1968, SR-71s averaged On 29 June 1987, an SR-71 on a mission approximately one mission a week for around the Baltic Sea to spy on Soviet nearly two years. By 1970, the SR-71s installations when one of the engines were averaging two missions per week, exploded. The aircraft, which was at and by 1972, they were flying nearly one 20km altitude, quickly lost altitude and sortie every day. Two SR-71s were lost turned 180° to the left over Gotland during those missions, one in 1970 and to search for the Swedish coast. Thus, the second aircraft in 1972, both due to Swedish airspace was violated and mechanical malfunctions. Over the course two armed Saab JA 37 Viggens were of its reconnaissance missions during scrambled to intercept the SR-71. the Vietnam War, the North Vietnamese Noting that the SR-71 was in obvious fired approximately 800 SAMs at SR-71s, distress, the Viggens escorted it to Danish none of which managed to score a hit. airspace. The event had been classified for over 30 years and when the report was unsealed, data from the NSA showed BELOW War in Vietnam – enemy that MIG -25 aircraft had been scrambled SAM & Troop Movement with orders to shoot down the SR-71 or force it to land. A MiG-25 had locked a missile onto the damaged SR-71, but as the aircraft was under escort, no missiles were fired. On 29 November 2018, the four Swedish pilots involved were awarded medals from the US Air Force. BELOW A group of SR-71 Blackbird Pilots from NASA in 1991. Photo: NASA.

BOTTOM SR-71A Blackbird on display in the Boeing Aviation Hangar, with the Space Shuttle BELOW Warsaw Pact missions – Baltic troop Enterprise (OV-101) visible in the background. OPERATIONAL rotations and placement. HIGHLIGHTS BOTTOM Major Cold War theatres of operation. Operational highlights for the entire Blackbird family (YF-12, A-12, and SR-71) as of about 1990 included: • 3,551 mission sorties flown • 17,300 total sorties flown • 11,008 mission flight hours • 53,490 total flight hours • 2,752 hours Mach 3 time (missions) • 11,675 hours Mach 3 time (total) Of the 12 aircraft lost only one crew member, a Lockheed flight-test reconnaissance and navigation systems specialist, was killed in a flight accident. The rest of the crew members ejected safely or evacuated their aircraft on the ground.

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 41 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY. EDUCATION SKILLING UP FOR DEFENCE A SOUTH AUSTRALIAN TECHNICAL COLLEGE IS SETTING STUDENTS UP FOR CAREERS IN DEFENCE AND OTHER INDUSTRIES WITH TAILORED EDUCATION AND HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE.

N 2017, ST PATRICK’S “This is a great example of our new TECHNICAL COLLEGE in Edinburgh Flexible Industry Pathways providing North became South Australia’s students with an opportunity to get ABOVE St Patrick’s Technical College ASC first and only P-TECH (Pathways in a head start in the workforce while Future Frigates Trainees, from left, Adrian Saliba, John Rice, Riley Read and Sabrina Agostinelli. ITechnology) school with defence industry completing their schooling. Starting a pathways as the key focus. traineeship through the ASC shipbuilding The Australian Government invested program will deliver excellent outcomes Vocational education and training is $5.1 million into the P-TECH pilot model for students, industry and the South delivered through TAFE SA, Regency of education-industry collaboration, Australian economy,” the minister says. Park, which houses the Advanced providing secondary school students with The students form part of the workforce Welder Training Centre, delivering an industry-supported pathway exploring for the federal government’s Hunter virtual and augmented reality welding science, technology, engineering, and Class Frigate Program that will build the technology – the most advanced mathematics (STEM). Royal Australian Navy’s nine Hunter-class simulators of their kind in the world. This year, four Year 11 Metals & anti-submarine warfare frigates. Meanwhile the students continue Engineering students from St Patrick’s Student candidates took part in a their senior secondary schooling and in were among 18 senior secondary comprehensive application process the new year, they will continue within students from 10 SA schools selected in commencing in March 2020. Once the readiness program as school-based the first intake of apprentices for the ASC shortlisted, they were interviewed apprentices moving into a Certificate III Shipbuilding Readiness Training Program virtually by an industry panel and, in Engineering Fabrication. at SA’s Osborne Naval Shipyard. following medical assessments and As a purpose-built trade training The training program allows students clearances, successful applicants were school offering education, training and to complete their schooling to obtain officially welcomed as school-based apprenticeship pathways to Year 10 to 12 the SA Certificate of Education and apprentices in the Hunter Class Frigate students, St Patrick’s Technical College is attain a Certificate II in Engineering Program on 24 June. an advocate for Vocational, Education & while gaining a head start on their The students have now commenced Training (VET) pathways and for providing transition to employment. the initial six-month readiness program students with hands-on experiences State Education Minister John Gardner incorporating comprehensive training, and flexible learning options, skilling says the government is focused on supervision, coaching and mentoring, them for jobs now and in the future. The delivering educational outcomes that best and providing first-hand understanding opportunity for students to gain a head position young people to get jobs. of a range of shipbuilding trades. start on their transition to employment

42 | SPRING 2020 in the defence industry not only provides mathematics and science, are taught working in partnerships with TAFE SA, them with a skilled career but creates a at the college in a way that makes Defence Teaming Centre, Saab Australia, pipeline of skilled workers for decades them directly applicable to each trade BAE Systems, DXC Technology, PMB to come. program,” he says. “Our curriculum has Defence and Century Engineering. SKILLING UP FOR DEFENCE The college’s main charter is to assist been developed specifically to support Working in partnership with schools students in completing senior secondary pre-vocational training, combining theory and tertiary education providers, school while concurrently undertaking and practice, and is designed to both industry has a direct hand in developing VET studies either at school or with an broaden and deepen the understanding project-based learning to ensure skills employer through an apprenticeship or of a trade while providing students with taught in the classroom align with those traineeship. Since opening in 2007, the a skillset appropriate for industry needs. required by employers and support college has assisted more than 1,000 “The implementation of the ASC jobs across a range of defence industry young people make the transition from Shipbuilding Readiness Training Program projects. Those partnerships provide school to employment. In addition to has created an opportunity to train and opportunities for students to engage apprenticeships, graduates also go on skill our young people for innovative and with the world of work and better to further study or find employment. reliable pathways into new technologies understand the relevance of STEM The college offers eight trade and traditional trades within defence. knowledge and qualifications, local programs: automotive; construction; “We look forward to collaborating employment opportunities and post- electrotechnology; food and hospitality; further with industry and government as school pathways. hair and beauty; information technology; a collective strength to skill and train our St Patrick’s Technical College works metals and engineering; and plumbing. young people across many rewarding diligently to strengthen existing Principal Danny Deptula says students career pathways in a new era of training partnerships with business and industry develop relevant skills and training, and employment.” and to develop deep relationships and a coupled with a greater understanding of With defence industries an economic shared awareness that provide the best a trade, through teaching of relevance. driver in SA, students at St Patrick’s are possible outcomes for Australia’s future “Core subjects, such as English, able to tap directly into opportunities workforce.

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 43 CIVIL AVIATION. QANTAS

IN 1919 AN EXPEDITION LEFT LONGREACH, QLD, IN A MODEL T FORD, AIMING TO SURVEY THE NORTHERN AUSTRALIAN ROUTE FOR THE GREAT AIR RACE. NINETY YEARS LATER DON HILL AND A SMALL GROUP OF VOLUNTEERS SET ABOUT RECREATING The drive that started THE DRIVE IN A RESTORED 1919 AN AIRLINEMODEL T FORD.

T IS THE 18TH OF AUGUST 1919, Given their remarkable flying skills offered McGinness re-employment in day one of a two-week mission to and experiences in the war-torn skies the Army to take on a special job. The survey the northern Australian route over Palestine, the men would likely details were yet to be fully fleshed out, for the Great Air Race, and three men have posed a significant challenge to the however the brief was to take a motor Ipose in front of an overloaded Model T eventual winners Ross and Keith Smith vehicle and make a ground survey of Ford in the small western Queensland in their Vickers Vimy. Unfortunately, the proposed Great Air Race route in town of Longreach. Of what would eleventh-hour circumstances conspired the remote section between Longreach become one of the most incredible stories against McGinness and Fysh when their and Darwin. The key objectives were to of exploration, perseverance, endurance financial backer, Sir Samuel McCauchey, find navigation markers for the aviators, and survival, expedition leader Lieutenant a wealthy landowner in the Riverina, decide where refuelling stops would be Paul McGinness DCM DFC simply writes: passed away before plans to purchase an set up and most importantly look for and “Leaving Longreach for Cloncurry today aircraft for the race had been finalised. prepare emergency landing sites along Stop Have been delayed owing to theft of In the disappointing days that followed the route for the competitors. McGinness coil from car on way up Stop”. however, a glimmer of employment hope was forthcoming. While THE MISSION in Melbourne to complete After returning to Australia at the end formalities with the Army, of World War I, air ace pilots Hudson McGinness had a chance Fysh and Paul McGinness had decided meeting with Major General to enter the Great Air Race from London James Legge, a superior to Australia. The race was the brainchild McGinness had served under of the Australian Government and Prime and personally knew well from Minister Billy Hughes, aiming to foster his war service in Egypt and civil aviation by offering a prize of £10,000 the Sinai. After hearing of the for the first crew to complete the first now thwarted plans to enter flight between the two nations. the Great Air Race, Legge

44 | SPRING 2020 immediately began planning for the expedition and enlisted the help of his war-time friend Hudson Fysh DFC. The job seemed simple enough on the face of it, but with so little known about the true nature of the country in question, it would take all their skills and experience to survive the mission. The two men would drive a Model T Ford north from Longreach through Winton, Cloncurry and on to Burketown, before turning north west and following Leichhardt’s Track to Borroloola and then on to Darwin. It is the section from Burketown to Borroloola that would test the men to their limits and define this remarkable drive. As Fysh and McGinness prepared for the journey in August 1919, they were becoming increasingly aware that they would be the first along the track, optimistically marked on their Army survey maps, for more than 20 years. The route followed the course taken by Prussian explorer Ludwig Leichhardt in 1845, and later by a hand-full of gold seekers in the 1890s. If they survived, McGinness and Fysh would be the first to successfully cross this northernmost part of Australia by motor vehicle. The Department of the Army provided McGinness and Fysh with a new Model T Ford and provisions for the trip. The small Ford utility was railed out from Brisbane to Longreach where McGinness would take charge of the vehicle for the expedition ahead. The Model T was a reliable, robust and flexible vehicle, and had served the Army well during WWI, so it was ideally suited to the task ahead. Before leaving Longreach, McGinness employed a local man, George Gorham, to go along as mechanic and provide extra muscle when an axe, cooking utensils, rifles and needed, meaning the two-seater car had ammunition. They also carried an old to carry three men and their gear. movie camera and rolls of film, as ABOVE Hudson Fysh DFC and Paul The Ford arrived at Longreach Rail well as chewing tobacco, mirrors, McGinness DCM DFC. Station in mid-August and was taken to white cotton shirts, beads and large Longreach Motors. On its train journey rolls of calico to share with the locals from Brisbane all the tools and some in exchange for their help if needed. OPPOSITE TOP George Gorham, Paul McGinness and Hudson Fysh with the heavily of its parts had disappeared, so a full With cans of petrol fastened into loaded Model T Ford outside Longreach Motors service was arranged. Once ready special carrying racks, six new spare on 18 August 1919. for the track, the car was packed with tyres and a large box of spare parts, camping equipment, food and other the car was heavily loaded. LEFT Extract from telegraph book, dated 18 August 1919: Departing Longreach for stores to last two weeks, sleeping Using a still camera as well as the Cloncurry. gear, water bottles and water for the second-hand film camera, Fysh would car to last up to three days, shovels, record, photograph, film and sketch

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 45 CIVIL AVIATION. QANTAS

the expedition. While Fysh’s writings and Katherine where they and the Ford fighting at Gallipoli and the survival of an several of the original photographs survive, were loaded on a train, finally arriving air war in the Sinai, this was still a test unfortunately the film of the remarkable in Darwin on 12 October, in time to of survival. trip had disappeared by the 1960s. prepare a landing ground at Fannie Bay Fysh writes that 350 miles (560km) To maintain contact with Major for the arrival of the victorious Vickers of the journey had been declared General Legge, McGinness had been Vimy on 10 December. The Army had impassable for a car and the stretch issued a telegraphic machine to tap into gauged the drive should take 14 days, into Borroloola included: “190 miles, telegraph lines, where they existed, and in the end it had taken 51. [of which] 87 miles of soft sand had to send back regular reports to the Army. be negotiated, and over 100 miles of Each message had to be recorded in RECREATING HISTORY it had to be done in bottom gear. For a telegraph book and presented at the On the 90th anniversary of McGinness’ 30 miles of it the car was actually pulled next post office they passed so payment expedition, the author, along with a small by horses. Six tidal rivers and over 40 could be made for using the telegraph group of volunteers, set about recreating creeks were crossed.” line. Today that book provides a unique the drive in a restored and identical 1919 The landscape through which they insight to the challenging events Model T Ford. Our aim was to follow travelled was a mix of sandy scrub and encountered during the expedition. the exact route, overnight in the same tidal waterways that empty into the What the two airmen discovered in the places and construct a documentary Gulf of Carpentaria. McGinness realised weeks that followed was that the country about a forgotten and obscure footnote early there was no possibility of clearing north and west of Winton and Longreach in Australia’s aviation heritage. Like Fysh, landing fields in such inhospitable terrain was vast, unforgiving and perilous to McGinness and Gorham, we found the and a more southerly route for the Great traverse. As they witnessed the extremes first days of the trip long but easy. It was Air Race flyers would have to be found. and harshness confronting those who not until after leaving Burketown that That though was a problem for later, lived and worked in the outback, the we began to truly understand what the now the mission was one of survival. embryo of an idea was conceived – an original trio had endured. As luck would have it, a drover by aerial service in the bush to provide a Much about the original journey the name of Higgins was also trying lifeline of fast and reliable transport, news, is described in Fysh’s book Qantas to get through to Borroloola with a mail, medicine and supplies. Rising and in a lesser-known article group of horses. The outback motorists A little over 12 months later McGinness for Life magazine in 1920-21, entitled met up with him on the trail to Calvert and Fysh would win their own air race "Fording it across Australia". In his River, some 150km east of Borroloola. of sorts when they established a flying personal style, Fysh describes the Higgins, realising the optimism of business based in Longreach called the section from Burketown to Borroloola attempting to drive a motor vehicle Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial in intricate detail, telling of the struggles through the region, gave them two Services Ltd – or as it would come to be and triumphs of crossing each sandy horses, which he considered likely to known, QANTAS. stretch, creek and river. He is laconic save their lives. Without those strong The men completed the mission, and downplays each event, but even for animals to help pull the Ford across driving 2,200km from Longreach to men recently seasoned by months of rivers and out of sandy bogs, there

ABOVE Extract from telegraph book dated 28 August 1919: Departing Burketown for Borroloola.

LEFT Map of the route from Longreach to Darwin, and back to Cloncurry.

46 | SPRING 2020 LEFT The re-enactment team with their restored 1919 Model T Ford, preparing for departure 18 August 2009.

pinpointed their position. That confirmed just how close they had come to much needed help. Had they known of the small outpost, the men would have found a generous oasis of fresh food, water and a place to do proper repairs to the now heavily damaged Model T. Instead, they laboured on short of supplies until finally arriving in Borroloola several days later, on 21 September. The Model T was always conceived as a car for the people. Henry Ford had grown up in a simple but poor farming community. His invention was designed to transport the family to town and church on Sunday and work hard on was probably little chance of success. and more recent mapping, it was a the land the rest of the week. Built of The chance meeting probably did struggle to find a path and remain robust vanadium steel, its flexible frame keep them alive, but if life teaches us roughly on the track in our 90-year-old and simple design meant the average anything, it is that every silver lining car. In preparing to redrive the route handyman could rebuild and repair the is surrounded by a cloud. While the we could only surmise that Fysh, machine with rudimentary tools and use horses provided much needed power, McGinness and Gorham had stayed on ingenious substitutes for spare parts if they also consumed one of their most Leichhardt’s track most of the time with required. Despite this, Henry had not valuable resources – fresh water. reasonable accuracy. In reality, it is likely made it bullet-proof. Frequent impacts Approaching the wide and sandy they criss-crossed and paralleled it much with hidden rocks and fallen trees meant based Calvert River, the trail became of the time, navigating by only compass the front of McGinness and Fysh’s indistinguishable, the sandy ground bearings and following the path of least Model T was taking a pounding. On became softer and progress slowed to resistance through the scrub. In his more than one occasion the whole front around 10km per day. The radiator of writings, Fysh makes mention of the end had to be pulled apart so the axle the Model T frequently boiled from the occasional stone cairn they hoped would and radius rods could be beaten straight never-ending strain on its 20HP engine be available as trail markers, but even with an axe against a tree – an outback and required constant replenishment. these had long disappeared into the wheel alignment circa 1919. The men straining in the sweltering heat undergrowth. Their spare tyres and tubes had been and the horses, working hard pulling the Sometime around 15 September, used up and the 30-by-3-inch tyres heavily laden Ford up steep riverbanks the trio passed through the newly normally pressurised with 75 PSI of air and through miles of soft sand, quickly formed Seven Emus Station. On our were now stuffed with grass and mud consumed what fresh water they could re-enactment journey we sat down with to keep the car moving. On the steep carry. By 13 September the situation the station manager and asked if he climb-outs from the riverbeds, fuel from had become dire. Still nearly 150km, knew of any contact the then owners the petrol tank mounted under the seat and more than a week away from might have had with McGinness, Fysh would stop running to the engine. In one Borroloola, the men were forced to dig and Gorham. The manager told us he further act of ingenuity, the men began in the bed of a dried-up creek in hope had been born on the property and pressurising the fuel tank with their tyre of finding drinkable water. Fysh took a his father had worked there from the pump to scavenge every last drop of fuel grainy photo of the moment McGinness beginning. He was sure the motoring from the gravity-fed system. finally struck the liquid gold some five trio had never visited the station house. The team had left Burketown with as feet below the surface. Their immediate Further investigation determined that, much fuel as they could carry – some 48 danger had passed. likely unaware of the homestead’s gallons (approximately 220 litres). But As we discovered re-enacting the existence, they had passed less than now covering only around 10-15km per drive, the trail is difficult enough to 2km to the north. A statement in Fysh’s day in hard-going terrain, it would be a follow even with modern technology. diary about gold rush ruins they saw miracle if that was enough to get them Despite the benefit of GPS navigation when crossing the Robinson River through. Finally, 25 days after leaving

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 47 CIVIL AVIATION. QANTAS

on to Katherine in the Northern Territory through Bauhinia Downs, Hodson Station, Roper Bar and a property already made famous in Jeannie Gunn’s 1908 novel We of the Never Never, Elsey Station. While little more than bush tracks, the roads on to Katherine were relatively easy going compared to what the team had covered. They had completed the hardest part of the journey and had become the first men to drive across the top of Australia. From Borroloola on, McGinness and Fysh could again take time to scout for areas that could be used for landing fields. By now though there was no doubt that the air route for the race would have to be much further south. The loss of so many days traversing Leichhardt’s track now made time the enemy. The first aircraft were expected to start arriving in Darwin from late November and at this stage no real progress had been made on surveying the air route to follow to Longreach, nor had any work been done on preparing a landing field in Darwin. The Model T drove its last full day of the mission on 8 October, arriving safely at the Katherine Rail Station. Here for the first time since leaving Burketown, McGinness could make contact with Major General Legge and supply a complete report to the Army. At the conclusion of the report, McGinness told Legge that he would soon leave Darwin, proceed back to Katherine and would then be “striking out south east Burketown, McGinness, Fysh, Gorham to Mataranka. Follow the telegraph and their enduring Model T arrived line south, which can be clearly seen TOP Gorham steering, McGinness by the front wheel and several helpers who keep the unceremoniously in Borroloola. The last from the air, having a wide cleared belt Model T moving. few miles witnessed the wounded Ford on either side, to Newcastle Waters, being pushed by volunteer townsfolk up thence striking out to Anthony’s Lagoon, ABOVE McGinness in the saddle and the long and steep riverbank and down south east to Avon Downs, on then Gorham at the wheel. Higgins’ horses working to cross a creek bed at low tide. the main street of the tiny town. to Cloncurry via Camooweal.” The list of damages included a In Darwin the team split up. Fysh split radiator, a broken fan and bent remained to oversee clearing of the OPPOSITE TOP Ninety years on and the steering shaft, front axle and locating site chosen for Darwin’s first airfield track remains the same. radius rods. It was undriveable. The and to greet the Air Race competitors, OPPOSITE BELOW Trying to avoid front- men enlisted the help of a Mr Warren, while McGinness and Gorham climbed end damage is a daily affair 90 years on. an inventive blacksmith with a full back into the Model T to return to workshop including a bellows-powered Cloncurry and prepare several stopping forge, to take on the job of rebuilding off points for the aviators along the way. the Ford. It took four days to enact McGinness and Gorham work feverously, sufficient repairs to make the car selecting sites, clearing land and marking mobile again under its own power. the landing fields for the pilots. At McGinness’ diary chronicles the trip each stop, McGinness sent navigation

48 | SPRING 2020 WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 49 CIVIL AVIATION. QANTAS

LAST QANTAS 747-400 FLIGHT As Qantas celebrates its centenary year, the company has finally retired the airliner that served it for half the airline’s life: the Boeing 747. On 13, 15 and 17 July, Qantas farewelled its last remaining jumbo jet (VH-OEJ, a 747-438ER variant) with "jumbo joyflights" over Sydney, Brisbane and Canberra. A Melbourne flight was cancelled due to the virus pandemic. All of the $400 economy and $747 business class tickets quickly sold. When the first jumbo entered Qantas service in September 1971, Billy McMahon was Australia's prime minister and the one-way airfare between London and Sydney was £276. Melbourne to claim victory – and the Eventually more than 60 747s of all £10,000 prize. types were purchased by Qantas. TOP Vickers Vimy undergoing further repairs Our re-enactment in 2009 gave us in Cloncurry after suffering a catastrophic On 22 July 2020, VH-OEJ departed propeller failure. a humbling insight into the drive taken by Fysh, McGinness and Gorham. We Sydney for storage in the Mojave Desert ABOVE An airline is born – head office gained a perspective unattainable from and painted a legacy tribute on flight- of QANTAS, Longreach, 1921. books and unmeasured for so many tracking aps for eternity. instructions to Fysh which he was to years. The Model T Ford we used in the pass on to the aviators as they arrived drive, and affectionately named Molly, in Darwin. Once back in Cloncurry, was returned to the Qantas Founders Gorham was paid for his employment Museum in Longreach. After some and returned to Longreach – with many not unsubstantial repairs, it proudly stories to tell. Fysh awaited the arrival sits today both a testament to its of the eventual winners of the race, inventor and a tribute to three men who Ross and Keith Smith, James Bennet completed a near-impossible mission. and Walter Shiers in their Vickers Vimy, The mission, while only a footnote before hitching a ride back to Longreach in aviation history, is remarkable for its in a different Model T. legacy. Out of that drive came an idea To McGinness fell one more important for an aerial service. Out of that aerial task. After departing Darwin, the Vimy service grew a changed way of life for the suffered a catastrophic propeller failure, western Queensland communities as well likely caused weeks earlier by bird-strike as the support needed for the beginnings damage on take-off from Calcutta, and of the Royal Flying Doctors Service. was forced down somewhere south of Ultimately, this was the drive that Newcastle Waters. When it becames started an airline. A mission lost in history, apparent the fliers were missing, Legge but remembered by those who have enlisted McGinness to conduct a search worked for, and those who have proudly for the lost aircraft. Within a few days worn the wings of Qantas. the Vimy and her crew had undertaken Don Hill, Qantas Pilot & temporary repairs and continued on to Director, Qantas Founders Museum

50 | SPRING 2020 NEW SOUTH WALES Air Force Association (NSW Division) Level 20 Defence Plaza, 270 Pitt St SYDNEY NSW 2000 PO Box A2638, SYDNEY SOUTH NSW 1235 Tel: 02 9393 3485 [email protected] www.raafansw.org.au VICTORIA Air Force Association – Victoria 24 Camberwell Rd, EAST HAWTHORN VIC 3123 Tel: 03 9813 4600 [email protected] www.raafavic.org.au AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY RAAF Association (ACT Division) PO Box 111, CAMPBELL ACT 2612 Tel: 0428 622105 PMS295 & PMS186 [email protected] www.raafaact.org.au TASMANIA RAAF Association (TAS Division) RAAF Memorial Centre, 61 Davey St, 100%Black HOBART 7000 Tel: 03 6200 9221 [email protected] www.raafatas.com PMS429 SOUTH AUSTRALIA RAAF Association (SA Division) • YOUR ASSOCIATION • Torrens Parade Ground Victoria Drive, ADELAIDE SA 5000

Tel: 08 8227 0980 33%Black [email protected] www.raafasa.org.au A VOICE TO GOVERNMENT FOR MEMBERS WESTERN AUSTRALIA AND EX-MEMBERS RAAF Association (WA Division) 18 Bowman St, SOUTH PERTH WA 6151 AN ASSOCIATION FOR ALL RANKS Tel: 08 9288 8400 [email protected] OPEN TO CITIZENS WITH A STRONG www.raafawa.org.au AVIATION INTEREST QUEENSLAND RAAF Association (QLD Division) WINGS MAGAZINE POSTED FREE TO MEMBERS PO Box 2259, WELLINGTON POINT QLD 4160 Mob: 0419 688 014 [email protected] www.raafaqld.com AIRMAN FOR LIFE CIVIL AVIATION. PROPULSION

The ACCEL electric aircraft. Photo: : Rolls-Royce.

turbine – the technology that now transports us around the world. We are The power behinD FUTURE now progressing to more electrification. In civil aviation, evolutionary technological advances are driven by AVIATIONa need for cost efficiency and more recently a desire to minimise carbon dioxide emissions. Disruptive advances such as electrification are also revealing FROM PILOTLESS ELECTRIC AIR TAXIS TO new market opportunities, such as the prospect of pilotless air taxis and HYPERSONIC FLIGHT, ROLLS-ROYCE SEES delivery drones. EXCITING TIMES AHEAD IN THE EVOLUTION In military aviation, the demand for more advanced sensing and data OF AVIATION PROPULSION. integration, greater flexibility and simpler logistics has spawned new technological innovations and increasingly high- ORE THAN 100,000 the past few months all of us will performance systems. As those new flights took off every day last have experienced the exasperation of capabilities are developed, however, the year. For many, the ability technology failures, poor connection and industry continues to strive to maintain to get on a plane and travel the desire for personal engagement. For its gold standard in safety. Malmost anywhere in the world is taken those reasons we will continue to see Electrification can play a role in all for granted and for some it has become the aerospace industry, vital for global areas of aerospace, from all-electric routine. But the recent sharp restrictions connectivity, develop and rise to future trainer aircraft to hybrid-electric regional on flying due to the global COVID-19 challenges such as mitigating its cabon platforms to large electric aircraft, both crisis has caused many of us to rethink footprint. for civil and military applications. the value of numerous elements of our Since the first Eagle engines produced The use of electrical power opens up lives, including the role of aviation. by Rolls-Royce in 1915, aviation a range of design opportunities Some predict digital connectivity propulsion has steadily evolved to deliver to aerospace engineers. could reduce the need for regular higher power and more efficiency, and What is electrification in aerospace? travel. Certainly, we will see a change adopt new technology. We witnessed Essentially, it is progressively more in the travel patterns going forward. that evolution with the shift from the powerful electrical systems, either for However, there is no doubt that over radial piston engine to the axial gas aircraft propulsion, or to power mission

52 | SPRING 2020 equipment. Pure electric aircraft will to fly helicopters, allowing remote/ Thermal management is key to the contain a static source of electric autonomous control and unmanned safety and durability of electrical power, usually a battery. Hybrid-electric operation. It is highly probable that the equipment. High-power electrical energy platforms will also contain a mechanical first air taxis will be pilotless platforms transmission generates heat due to generator, most likely a gas turbine, known as eVTOLs (electrical vertical take electrical resistance in the transmission as in conventional aircraft. The gas off and landing) vehicles being developed medium, wire. Decreasing the current turbine will primarily drive a generator for the urban air mobility market. while maintaining constant power to produce electrical power instead of Unmanned platforms are used requires a proportional increase in the direct thrust. today in military operations, and the required voltage. Although high-voltage The electric power from either the widespread availability of unmanned systems are common for ground battery or the gas turbine-generator eVTOL-type vehicles has the potential operations, faults occur in medium-to- set will drive motors, coupled to to revolutionise transport of personnel high voltage systems at high altitude, propellers or ducted fans producing and equipment, freeing up pilots to due to the low pressure environment. thrust to move the aircraft. The hybrid engage in combat operations. Quieter The relationship of what is termed configuration allows scope for either operation of eVTOLs compared to “breakdown voltage” and pressure is all-electric operation, for example in helicopters would also provide acoustic urban areas where noise reduction and stealth advantages in some combat limiting emissions are more important, environments. or operation powered by the gas turbine There are three key where range extension is required. major challenges for The dual motive power source in hybrid- broad electrical electric aircraft also provides increased systems application redundancy over an all-electric platform. to aviation: thermal Electrification has suddenly taken off management, in aviation due to the rapid advances storage reliability, in electrical generation and storage, and safety and partially as a result of the electric car weight. market. Increasingly more power and energy-dense electrical equipment has reached the threshold at which the electrification benefits outweigh RIGHT Eagle engine. the increased total system mass. But electrical power sources can’t quite compete with kerosene yet. In fact, BELOW Rolls-Royce is developing UltraFan kerosene still has about 30 times the high-bypass-ratio engines. energy density of even a high-power battery. Because of that, electric aircraft will have a much shorter range compared to an equivalent gas turbine powered aircraft. Electric power, generated from low-carbon sources, will find a niche in short range operations and satisfy both acoustic and emission concerns. Electrification, also yields considerable free space in the platform for functional exploitation. Those factors have created new transportation possibilities. Distributed propellers/rotors powered electrically rather than mechanically allow significantly quieter operation, meaning those platforms could be used in populated urban areas without unacceptable noise pollution. New aircraft designs with distributed propellers offer much more platform stability over the notoriously difficult

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 53 CIVIL AVIATION. PROPULSION

Concord with a Battle of Britain Spitfire over the White Cliffs of Dover.

known as Paschen’s Law. Therefore, requires wires with higher cross over 480kph – although that remains distributing high-energy electrical power sectional area, which also increases comfortably under half the speed of at altitude remains a significant thermal the weight penalty and more highly sound. While electrical power from a management challenge. distributed systems require significant battery has its advantages, it doesn’t The aviation industry’s excellent lengths of cabling. Additionally, ensuring come close to matching kerosene with safety record has set a high bar for that failure or malfunction of those regards to power; liquid fuel is required new technology adoption, and it is systems is safety contained introduces to meet the high thrust requirements vital to ensure new platforms are able another challenge to system mass. for supersonic and hypersonic flight. to meet the high industry reliability It is these challenges, among One of the most famous aircraft, standards, and this poses another others, that engineers are solving Concorde could reach about twice the major challenge. Examples of battery now. Rolls-Royce expects all-electric speed of sound. The limiting factor was failures and fires on demonstrators, and hybrid-electric propulsion to play not the power of its Olympus engine but and even in-service aircraft, have been a significant role in the future of short- the maximum tolerable skin temperature reported, and would be unacceptable haul commercial flights and in military of the aircraft, which reached over in a fully electrified aircraft. Mitigation operations, and large aircraft to become 127°C in some areas. measures to satisfy reliability and increasingly more electric. aviation safety standards would add In all forms of transport, high speed BEYOND MACH 2 to system complexity and weight. is seen as a measure of success and Research is ongoing to move beyond Safe and reliable electrical storage and one of the trendiest directions for supersonic speed to hypersonic, defined transmission remains a challenge. technological advancement. as over five times the speed of sound. The power-to-weight ration of In the world of electric flight, the One small company, Reaction Engines current electrical storage systems is ACCEL aircraft is targeting the world has developed a system able to cool not conducive to aviation applications. all-electric flying speed record. Its high- 1,000°C air at the inlet to ambient Similarly, high-energy distribution power batteries are able to propel it to temperature before reaching the engine.

54 | SPRING 2020 BELOW CityAirbus. improvements, including materials technology. Rolls-Royce next generation engine fits into an UltraFan™ family and has a bypass ratio three times that of engines in service in the early 2000s. Each individual fan blade is taller than the average person. The massive diameter means that the fan can turn comparatively slowly to push the same amount of air as other engines and that, coincidentally, reduces engine noise. Efficiency is also vital for military platforms in order to extend their range and loiter capabilities, particularly when mission requirements have a significant emphasis on reconnaissance. Unlike civil That development will allow the platform and the rest from the integrated engines, military engines often have a to reach hypersonic speeds without platform. That means the engines in focus on platform manoeuvrability, and melting the engine core in the process. 2050 will need to be 30% more efficient that limits the size of the fan compared One problem with speed is that, than those flying today. to the rest of the engine. generally, the faster you go, the less There is also an economic driver of Consequently, military combat efficient you will be. And for the majority efficiency. A significant proportion of platforms rely more on the second main of aircraft applications, there is far the operating cost of airline operation is method of increasing engine efficiency; greater emphasis on platform efficiency fuel, therefore any platform that reduces increasing the temperature of the than there is on speed. fuel burn will save cost. That element engine core. Significant developments becomes more vital as the aviation in technologies that enable higher core ENERGY EFFICIENCY industry looks to more sustainable fuels, temperatures are another key factor Increasing efficiency will also reduce which are more expensive to produce in improving engine efficiencies. emissions. Although the CO2 emissions than fossil-based kerosene. from aviation amount to only 2-3% of Increasing the amount of air flowing THE FUTURE total global emissions, there is significant around the core of the engine – the It’s clear the future of aviation propulsion focus on the aerospace industry as a bypass air – compared to that going is exciting, and Rolls-Royce is working global contributor to climate change. through the engine core, increases at the cutting edge of technology to In response, the industry has set itself the efficiency of the engine and is the accelerate future possibilities into a challenging target of increasing the reason we see larger and larger diameter reality. Watch out for the highly efficient platform efficiency by an average of engines in service today. UltraFan™ engine, eVTOL air taxis and 1.5% per year to reduce the amount of As with electrical propulsion, the for hypersonic platforms. fossil fuels burned – about 1% of that new era of high-bypass-ratio engines Jessica Poole & Paul Stein needs to come from engine efficiency, is facilitated in key technological Rolls-Royce Plc

Keeping Australia resilient in the name of the Spitfire pilots and ground crews who defended Australia across the globe in WWII.

For all enquiries please contact Geoff Zuber 0409 773 840

www.spitfireassociation.com

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 55 HISTORY. FANNIE BAY DOGFIGHT: PART 2

ETURNING TO DARWIN WARHAWKS after an aborted attempt to position to Java, the inexperienced pilots of the USAAFR 33rd Pursuit Squadron became embroiled in a desperate battle to protect the city. Arriving over Darwin at around 0945, Major Floyd Pell split the formation AGAINST THE into A and B Flights. A Flight, under his command, proceeded to land and refuel at RAAF Field – the main airstrip at Darwin that ran through the modern-day suburbs of Parap and Fannie Bay and is now Ross Smith Avenue. B Flight, under Second Lieutenant Jack Peres, ONSLAUGHT along with Second Lieutenants William Walker, Max Wieckes, Elton Perry and Robert Oestreicher, were to patrol WORDS David Armstrong overhead. B flight flew a four-plane patrol while Oestreicher acted as a sweeper above them – a tactic used by US pilots early in the Pacific War but later discontinued. CONTINUING THE STORY OF THE BATTLE OF DARWIN, USAAF 33RD PURSUIT OESTREICHER & PERES The morning was beautiful, with a light SQUADRON RETURNS TO THE CITY ON 19 breeze, blue skies and some cloud, as B Flight watched the A Flight P-40s line up FEBRUARY 1942, UNAWARE IT IS ABOUT at the side of RAAF Field below. With TO BE DRAWN INTO A BLOODY DOGFIGHT A Flight safely down, Peres started his preparations for landing and Oestreicher – THE FIRST AIR COMBAT OVER THE assumed command of B Flight in the air. The time was 0955 and Oestreicher, AUSTRALIAN MAINLAND. who was still well above the other members of B Flight at approximately 15,000ft watched on as Peres and Perry started their descent followed by Wieckes and Walker. Ten minutes earlier, the lead Japanese Zeros, just ahead of the main strike force, had engaged a US PBY Catalina flying boat above Bathurst Island (part of the Tiwi Group, 80km north of Darwin) and shot it down. The pilot, Lieutenant Moorer, survived the surprise attack and crash landing near the Tiwis. He went on to achieve the rank of Admiral and served as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff before war’s end. Just as A Flight had landed, the lead Japanese fighters arrived over Darwin ahead of the main bomber group and, seeing the patrolling P-40s below, pounced. The distinct height advantage encouraged the experienced Zero

56 | SPRING 2020 LEFT Mitsubishi A6M2 Zero, armed with two 7.7mm machine guns and two 20mm cannon.

FAR LEFT Darwin city today with Fannie Bay and East Point in the background. The Parap Field is now Ross Smith Avenue (behind the two larger buildings rear of picture).

pilot Petty Officer 1st Class Yoshikazu lost control of his P-40 as he twisted After exiting his aircraft at about Nagahama (also responsible for the away. He regained control at about 4,500ft with some difficulty due to direct attack on the PBY over Bathurst 4,000ft and again climbed to around excessive airframe vibration, Wiecks Island) as he dove to the attack. Both A 12,000ft, the powerful Allison engine of descended under the chute unmolested, and B Flights remained oblivious to the the P-40 screaming as Oestreicher tried landing approximately 6km out to sea. presence of the Zeros and continued for a height advantage, at the same Momentarily pulled along the surface either taxing, refuelling or preparing time calling for B Flight to head for the by his chute and buzzed by a menacing to land. clouds. There was no response – B Zero, Wieckes floated all day in his Mae Moments before the patrolling B Flight were already in a fight for survival. West off the coast of Fannie Bay. Finally, Flight pilots encountered substantial he was washed up at East Point where enemy action, Peres was shot down PERRY, WIECKS & WALKER he then walked back to RAAF Field, either on approach as the first B Flight The other B Flight P-40s had attempted parachute slung over his shoulder. aircraft to line up to land (some to follow Oestreicher, but Nagahama Nagahama weaved through B Flight, research suggests his aircraft had was too quick. In seconds, he had shot firing at everything in front of him and become problematic in flight) or just down Perry in aircraft #51, which was carving up the Americans. Apart from after taking off with A Flight once they seen crashing into the sea about 1km off shots on Oestreicher and downing were scrambled moments later (that Casuarina Beach. He is now considered Peres, Perry and Wieckes, he also is, he had already landed). However, the first pilot killed over mainland seriously damaged the plane flown according to Oestreicher, Peres had Australia (although some accounts by Walker (#46). Barely out of flight not landed at that stage. There are suggest Peres holds that tragic honour). school, under incredible pressure for reports substantiating both scenarios, Peres’ aircraft #189 was hammered by a first combat experience, Walker was regardless, his wreckage remains Nagahama and he peeled away in a low unable to shake the Japanese pilot. where it was found in September shallow dive, crashing on the far side of Badly wounded with a damaged aircraft, 1942, at Tree Point near Hope Inlet Hope Inlet east of Fannie Bay. with no height to play with, he barely not far from Darwin city and Fannie There was now a full-blown dogfight managed to crash-land his mangled Bay. Troops identified his body by the developing and enough confusion to plane back at RAAF Field. engraving on his wristwatch (later push the inexperienced young pilots Likely adding to the confusion and returned to his mother in the US). into a fight for survival. Wieckes found turmoil of combat was the requirement Seconds before, as Oestreicher himself surrounded by “wild and for P-40 pilots to activate and engage scanned the skies above, he glanced frenzied” air action, his P-40 riddled a hydraulic priming system for their gun over his left shoulder and to his horror, with bullets and virtually unresponsive. firing mechanisms. Some aircraft had saw a single plane diving towards He was forced to bail out at a low level the priming system bypassed (a task him, large red Hinomaru national and seconds later heard the thud of his performed by willing ground crew), insignia clearly visible on its wings. He aircraft hitting the water. Wiecks stated so the guns were ready to go from screamed into his mic “Zeros, Zeros, that he initially knew things were not the moment the aircraft was airborne. Zeros!”, jettisoned his drop tank and right when he saw Perry (immediately Unfortunately, in that case, a jam meant immediately dove away to gain vital ahead of him) unexpectedly pull out of the pilot could not re-arm his guns speed before climbing towards the sun. formation: “Another plane cut between inflight and would have to land and As he gained altitude, he was able us and this one had a large red insignia. have ground crew perform the task. to fire briefly on a Zero. It quickly rolled I turned on my gun rheostat and tried to It is unclear if this was the case with and gained the positional advantage, get behind him but before I could fire, I the P-40Es of the 33rd, but it is a factor firing back on him, and he momentarily saw the Zero putting strikes on [Perry].” Oestreicher mentioned in his report.

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 57 HISTORY. FANNIE BAY DOGFIGHT: PART 2

PELL On the ground, Major Pell waiting in the shade of the wing of his just landed P-40 heard over the aircraft radio Oestreicher’s call of “Zeros, Zeros, Zeros”. He immediately ordered his men to work up their aircraft and scramble. P-40s required a sustainable oil pressure to be reached before full power could be applied, and although Pell's A Flight aircraft were still warm, there would be some minor delay before take-off. A pilot was considerably more aware of his mortality by his mid to late 20s, the ages of those in the 33rd, so their

response was remarkable – there was at ground level, cannon firing causing get out, released his harness, pushed up no hesitation. Pell was first up (in the Bushby to dive for cover. and rolled over the side of his aircraft. As commandeered P-40 #28) with 2nd Lt he fell past the tail his head glanced the Charlie Hughes (in #94) right behind HUGHES, RICE & GLOVER fin, badly damaging his right eye. him. Pell desperately tried to gain Hughes, after being strafed on take-off, 2nd Lt John Glover in #36 was speed and height and was seen zig- managed to escape a pursuing Zero seconds behind Rice, frantically trying zagging frantically in an effort to avoid by flying hard and fast at treetop level. to pinpoint the Zeros overhead as he fire by a flight of three Zeros, under However, the experienced Japanese raced down the runway, colliding with the command of Lieutenant Shigeru pilot banked hard and was on the tail a 44-gallon barrel at the side of the Mori, from the Imperial Japanese Navy of the P-40 within seconds. Hughes' strip. Incredibly, he regained control of aircraft carrier Hiryu. aircraft, riddled with bullets and trailing the now bucking aircraft, pulled back After taking considerable hits from smoke, banked slightly and slammed on the stick and roared into the air. He Mori, at around 130ft altitude and 15km into the bush just north of the airstrip, banked hard to the northeast gaining east of the northern end of the airfield, killing him instantly. height to around 4,000ft, then turned Pell bailed out over Cameron’s Beach 2nd Lt. Burt Rice (in #31) got airborne right to the east before accelerating in (close to the entrance of the Howard but was immediately engaged by the a shallow climb. He noticed a parachute River and not too far from Peres’ crash marauding Zeros. He managed to climb being fired on by three Zeros below, and site). His P-40 crashed into a mud flat, to around 3,000ft before gaining enough immediately dove into attack. In his later Pell landing close to the wreckage. speed from a shallow dive at full throttle report, Glover says he made strikes on A gunner (Sergeant Les Bushby 19th to get clear of the incoming fire. He the closest Zero and thought that it had Machine Gun Regiment) from a nearby tried to gain height once again but was exploded – although as he had banked anti-aircraft battery raced to the scene outflanked by the Japanese who had away, he could not be sure. He then to find Pell deceased, although his gained on him in a tight turn. Machine started to fly a protective orbit around parachute had opened. gun and cannon fire slammed into Rice's the pilot in the chute whom he now The Zero that brought Pell down P-40, smashing the elevator control recognised as his good friend Burt Rice. then flew a strafing run over the wreck system. In a split second, he decided to As Rice hit the water alive, Glover

58 | SPRING 2020 broke off in an attempt to lead the still incoming Walker from B Flight attacking Zeros back over RAAF Field who was trying to land his shot-up P-40. and hopefully through a line of fire As the dogfight reached its peak with from the Australian machine gun crew Zeros swarming all over, stationed at the end of the strip. The he stayed low and fast, sliding directly Zeros gained on him and were making under a passing Zero, and at full power hits on his P-40. He was now at tree- headed northeast over Fannie Bay. He top level and at full power. Furiously witnessed a low opening chute to his ABOVE glancing left and right over his shoulder left (likely Pell over Cameron’s Beach), 2nd Lt Bob McMahon's P-40E (#22). and weaving as best he could, he flew as he turned sharply in an attempt through a canopy of tall gum trees at to get onto the Zero he had narrowly TOP LEFT the northeast boundary of the field. His avoided seconds before. AIF personnel at Pell’s crash site on Cameron’s starboard wing was ripped off and he McMahon gained some initial altitude Beach. Photo: S. Johnston. skipped and then cartwheeled along a but was embroiled in a swarm of Zeros cleared area at the end of the runway. which were by then ordered to ‘hunt Miraculously, Glover managed to get and kill’ any allied aircraft in the vicinity.

FROM FAR LEFT 2nd Lt Jack Peres, 2nd Lt Elton Perry, 2nd Lt Max Wiecks, 2nd Lt William Walker, Major Floyd Pell, 2nd Lt Burt Rice, 2nd Lt Charlie Hughes, 2nd Lt John Glover, 2nd Lt Bob McMahon, 2nd Lt Robert Oestreicher. himself clear of the wreckage, falling into The skies over Darwin Harbour the arms of the Australian gunners who and nearby Fannie Bay were awash had run to his aid. Suffering a severe with swarming Zeros chasing down gash that ran from his forehead to his the embattled P-40s, but McMahon chest, he needed to be dragged to the managed to again pull tight and close, relative safety of the gunner's nest. and was now heading directly towards an incoming Zero. Both pilots fired at MCMAHON each other, and McMahon saw his 2nd Lt Bob McMahon (in #22) managed tracers strike the Zero. As they closed to get airborne as well, just avoiding the to within 500m, he saw part of the

HARS Aviation Museum Highly acclaimed collection of lovingly restored aircraft as well as a selection of Australia’s Aviation Heritage aircraft. An incredible tour with a team of knowledgeable tour guides who provide outstanding commentary on your visit. Over 40 aircraft including: Well stocked shop with memorabilia • Boeing 747-400 City of Canberra - famous for from aviation history London to Sydney non-stop flight • Boeing 747-400 Premium Tour or Cockpit Tour Award winning café with great coffee, hosted by Boeing 747-400 flight crews breakfast & lunch menus. Memorable private • Boeing 747-400 Wing Walk hosted by Tour Guide functions & kids birthday parties • Lockheed Super Constellation ‘Connie’ • F-111C, DHC-4 Caribou, PBY-6A Catalina, AP-3C High-tech conference & meeting rooms Orion & P2V-7 Neptune with state of the art equipment

Open 7 days from 9:30am – 3:30pm | 02 4257 4333 | hars.org.au | Shellharbour Airport, Albion Park Rail NSW HARS Aviation Museum WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 59 Highly acclaimed collection of lovingly restored aircraft as well as a selection of Australia’s Aviation Heritage aircraft. An incredible tour with a team of knowledgeable tour guides who provide outstanding commentary on your visit.

Over 40 aircraft including: • Boeing 747-400 City of Canberra - famous for London to Sydney non-stop flight • Boeing 747-400 Premium Tour or Cockpit Tour hosted by Boeing 747-400 flight crews • Boeing 747-400 Wing Walk hosted by Tour Guide • Lockheed Super Constellation ‘Connie’ • F-111C Fighter Bomber & Southern Cross II Well stocked shop with memorabilia from aviation history Award winning café with great coffee, breakfast & lunch menus Memorable private functions & kids birthday parties High-tech conference & meeting rooms with state of the art equipment

Open 7 days from 9:30am – 3:30pm 02 4257 4333 | hars.org.au Illawarra Regional Airport, Albion Park Rail HISTORY. FANNIE BAY DOGFIGHT: PART 2

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

6.

7. 8.

9.

Locations of Downed P-40s at Darwin, February 19, 1942. 1. Pell; 2. Hughes; 3. Rice; 4. Glover; 5. McMahon; 6. Peres; 7. Perry; 8. Wiecks; 9. Walker (strafed on ground). Locations courtesy Shane Johnston.

Zero’s engine cowling breakaway as the Japanese flashed past him. Breaking off that engagement and glancing down, he saw a P-40 being chased by two Zeros racing low across the Parap Field – likely Glover just before crashing through the tree canopy. Running down via East Point and Fannie Bay towards Darwin Harbour, witnessed by members of the 14th AA Battalion, 2nd AIF, McMahon flew at mast height alongside ships in the harbour to gain some protection from the pursuing Zeros. He whizzed past USS Peary and SS Zealandia, trying to get some clear air and space to get back in the fight. ABOVE Walker’s P-40 shortly after landing and being shot up. Photo: B. Alford. He climbed to engage a Nakajima B5N Kate which had just started its bombing run on shipping, duelling

60 | SPRING 2020 with and taking hits from numerous Lt Robert Oestreicher remained. in early 1942 was a shambles from Japanese fighters before his shot-up The second element of the main an allied point of view. Undersupply aircraft could fly no more. His hydraulics Japanese bomber formation now of aircraft, parts and pilots with combat shot out causing his undercarriage to arrived over the port and almost experience made these desperate extend, put him in a precarious position. immediately encountered Lieutenant times. The pilots of the 33rd deserve In the rush to get airborne moments Oestreicher's lone P-40. He made a great recognition for outstanding valour before, McMahon hadn't clipped his number of attacks, shooting down one in the face of overwhelming odds. harness on. When the undercarriage bomber, pouring fire on another which William Walker survived the Fannie extended, he slid forward into his he thought could not survive, and firing Bay dogfight but was killed later in gunsight as his airspeed slowed. on numerous Zeros in a scene of utter the war. Robert McMahon, Burt Rice, Hits from a pursuing Zero eventually chaos. Although his own aircraft was John Glover, Max Wiekes and Robert caused his engine to fail and burn, and damaged by return fire, he was able Oestreicher all survived the conflict. combined with his newly acquired ‘air to eventually land safely at Darwin However, it was Oestreicher who brakes’, he knew the game was up. after taking evasive action once his gained the most attention from that Wounded in the leg, he flipped his ammunition was exhausted. infamous day, and has now become P-40 upside down and fell clear at only The Fannie Bay dogfight was the a subject of much debate. 1,500ft, parachute opening almost first air combat over the Australian Those airman were brief visitors immediately just before he hit the water mainland. It was a short and frantic to Australia’s tropical jewel, the first to of Darwin Harbour. His plane spiralled engagement fought by inexperienced defend Darwin’s skies though not the into the mud flats between Middle and young American pilots against combat last. Another 21 months of air combat West Arm on the far side of the harbour, experienced Japanese pilots flying what would ensue before the Top End west of the RAAF Field. In a matter of was considered by many as the best skies would be safe again, and Robert 15 minutes, the 33rd was decimated; fighter aircraft of the day. Oestreicher still had a role to play. only "Miss Nadine" (#43) piloted by 2nd The Western Pacific Campaign, • To be continued next edition.

RAAF MUSEUM POINT COOK

The RAAF Museum, located at Point Cook, is home to an amazing range of historic military aircraft. A great chance to view these rare machines is at the interactive flying displays which ENTRY TO THE RAAF are held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 1pm (weather permitting). MUSEUM IS FREE The Museum has a vast collection of historical material on show, including several hangars with static aircraft. It offers visitors an exciting experience and insight into the history of the Air Force. Models, books, patches, clothing and mementos can be purchased at the Museum shop. facebook.com/RAAF.Museum

Phone 03 8348 6040. Fax 03 8348 6692. Open 10am-3pm Tues-Fri; 10am-5pm weekends and public holidays. Closed Mondays, Christmas Day and Good Friday.

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 61 RAAF. WOMEN

LEFT Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Mel Hupfeld congratulates WOFF-AF Fiona Grasby on her appointment as the ninth WOFF-AF.

BELOW WWII recruiting poster for the WAAAF.

underscored the huge contribution women made to capability at our nation’s time of greatest threat,” he said. “It was fantastic to see so many men supporting this event because we all need to be involved in this journey. MOVING ON UP We can't afford not to draw upon half the population for the widest possible range of intellects and ideas.” AIR FORCE IS WORKING TO INCREASE THE Recognising women to be a largely untapped source of talent, especially PARTICIPATION RATE OF WOMEN AND IS in fields such as technical trades and ON TRACK TO REACH 25% BY 2023. aircrew roles, Air Force has established several initiatives: • Project WINTER (Women in Non-Traditional Roles), which aims HE FIRST FEMALE Warrant “We’re making great grounds to to increase the participation rate and Officer of the Air Force (WOFF- ensure we have a balanced workforce, support of women in Air Force jobs AF) celebrated International and this is evident in our recruiting and • A Graduate Pilot Scheme to attract Women’s Day with a thought- in the success rate in our courses.” women to become Air Force pilots Tprovoking presentation at RAAF Base All careers in the Air Force are • Air Force Sponsored Flying Williams, Victoria. open to women. As of January 2019, Scholarships awarded to two young Speaking at a Women’s Integrated women represented 22.9% of Air Force women under the age of 24 each year Networking (WINGS) event in early personnel and the target of 25% by to assist with the costs of pursuing March, WOFF-AF Fiona Grasby OAM 2023 is within reach. a career in aviation. highlighted the increasing acceptance Event attendee Squadron Leader and role played by women in the service. Mark Pentreath commented: “It's not The WINGs program brings Air Force “The importance of International a women’s issue, it's a men's issue as women of all employment groups and Women's Day is the opportunity for well. The more we can be inclusive and ranks together to provide them with us to celebrate not just women but understand what our females are going opportunities, and to be encouraged also diversity and to recognise how far through, the more we can support each to achieve a successful and engaging we’ve come,” WOFF-AF Grasby said. other for the betterment of the Air Force.” career in the organisation. "Defence is moving in the right Flight Lieutenant Barrie Bardoe from Claire Burnet direction when it comes to diversity and the Defence Aviation Safety Authority Flying Officer equality because we recognise what it agreed. “The presentation on the Specialist Reserve Public Affairs brings to the whole Defence Force. history of women in the organisation No.28 Squadron

62 | SPRING 2020 mechanics, fabric workers, instrument 1947 paved the way for gender equality History of women makers and meteorological assistants, today by proving women could fulfil besides using skills in many clerical, tasks and roles previously undertaken in the Air Force medical, transport, catering, equipment, solely by men. The success of the signals and radar fields of employment. WAAAF allowed for the formation The need to engage women in new By October 1944, the number of of a permanent, non-auxiliary Women’s avenues of employment became women in the WAAAF had increased Royal Australian Air Force (WRAAF) apparent during the early years of to a peak strength of 18,667 officers in November 1950, which functioned World War II when wireless telegraphists and airwomen serving in all states until 1977 when female personnel were were urgently needed to fill a temporary of Australia. More than 700 women absorbed into the mainstream RAAF. shortage of men. held commissioned rank and, like EQUAL PAY: The National Wage Case In February 1941, the Women’s airwomen, worked in a great variety of of 1969 established the principle of the Auxiliary Australian Air Force administrative, technical and professional gradual introduction of equal pay for (WAAAF) was created and a training roles. Some commanded units in identical work. WRAAF officers prior depot was established at Malvern operation rooms. to 1970 received 66-68% of male officer in Melbourne. Recruitment was Wherever women were needed, rates. That was increased to 76-78% intentionally slow until Japan entered they served. However, airwomen were later that year. Women of the RAAF the war and it was decided that more paid two-thirds of RAAF male pay for today are paid equally to men, across women were needed to release men equivalent positions and female officers all musterings and categories. for operational duties. were paid a good deal less than male EQUAL ROLES: Gender restrictions Airwomen were accepted into 73 officers of equal rank. from ADF combat roles were removed different musterings (trades): armament The 27,000 women who served in the for serving female members during 2013 workers, electricians, fitters, flight WAAAF between March 1941 and July and 2016 for new female recruits.

Preserve.Share.Fly! www.australianwarbirds.com.au

Join Australia’s most exciting aviation organisation and be a part of the mission to keep Warbirds flying! For more information on the association and how to join, visit www.australianwarbirds.com.au

WINGS ISSUE 72 NO.3 | 63 VETERANS. OPEN ARMS

was changed to Open Arms – Veterans service and mental health recovery, THE LEGACY & Families Counselling. as either a veteran or family The name was chosen as a tribute member to Vietnam Veterans and acknowledges • Online and face-to-face group the long periods spent in the jungle treatment programs to develop during the war, where their lifeline was skills and enhance support for LIVES ON the Huey helicopter. They would call the individuals and couples Huey’s in to take them to safety at the • Suicide prevention and intervention end of an operation, medical evacuation workshops and online training or to provide critical supplies. Often • Mental health training programs OPEN ARMS IS to let the pilot know where to land, • Crisis accommodation support one soldier would stand in a field • Referrals to other services or AUSTRALIA’S with raised open arms, completely specialist treatment programs, LEADING PROVIDER vulnerable. The new name is a symbol as needed of the courage it sometimes takes • Information, education and OF FREE AND to seek support. self-help resources on the CONFIDENTIAL Today, Open Arms is Australia’s leading Open Arms website. national provider of high quality, free With 38 office locations and over COUNSELLING AND and confidential counselling and support 1,300 community-based mental-health services for Australian veterans and their providers, nationwide support is SUPPORT SERVICES families. Clients seek help for a range available where it is needed. FOR VETERANS AND of issues including depression, anxiety, A unique service offered by substance use challenges, workplace Open Arms, the Community and THEIR FAMILIES. struggles, relationship concerns and Peer Program involves veteran and parenting and family issues. family community and peer advisors Open Arms staff members have working together with veterans, family HE VIETNAM WAR was a specialist training in the military supports, community agencies, difficult chapter in Australia's experience and while they support ex-service organisations and mental- history. For those who served, families experiencing routine daily health clinicians to complement other the experience forged strong challenges, they also understand the services. Community and Peer teams Tbonds and a commitment to look out unique stressors military and veteran are available in Canberra, Sydney, for each other. families experience relating to the posting Newcastle, Brisbane, Townsville, Cairns, That deep sense of mateship led cycle, training exercises, deployments, Darwin, Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Vietnam veterans to lobby for a partner employment, and more. Wodonga, Hobart and Launceston, specialised counselling and support Open Arms services include: and also provide video and telehealth service for veterans and their families, • 24/7 counselling support through services nationwide. leading to the establishment of the a dedicated support line If you or someone you know wants Vietnam Veterans’ Counselling Service • Face-to-face and video counselling someone to talk to, even just for a (VVCS) in 1982. for individuals, couples and families chat, Open Arms is available 24/7 by Over time access to VVCS was • Care coordination for clients with calling 1800 011 046. The service is free extended to veterans of all conflicts, multiple and/or complex needs and confidential and there is always a their families and other members of • Peer support and veteran team member, who understands the the ADF and ex-service community, community engagement by those military experience, available to answer resulting in a name change in 2007 with lived experience of ADF your call. to Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service. In recognition of the impact of contemporary deployments and a focus on suicide prevention in the veteran community, the ability to access the service was expanded to individuals with at least one day of full-time service and their families. That has resulted in Open Arms hosts an anonymous 24/7 support line – Safe Zone Support. a period of innovation and revitalisation Specialist counsellors who understand the military can offer help to veterans and, following a national consultation process lead by the Open Arms and their families without needing to know who you are. Calls are not National Advisory Committee, the name recorded. For more information visit openarms.gov.au/safe-zone-support.

64 | SPRING 2020 changed. She was irritable, sometimes tearful, who shared strategies and insights about what CASE STUDY less talkative, and retreated to her bedroom. helped him manage similar mental health Here’s an example of how Open Arms helped Jack became increasingly worried about his struggles related to military experiences. one family. mother and sister and frustrated as he did Jenny worked with her counsellor on a John, a 37-year-old Infantry Sergeant in not know how he could support them. But range of focused psychological strategies. the Australian Regular Army, enlisted 17 he did not want to worry his dad and became She reduced her alcohol intake and returned years ago. He and his wife, Jenny, have two withdrawn when talking with John by phone. to a healthier, more social lifestyle. She and teenage children, Sally and Jack. John had When the family reunited, the supportive, John attended couple counselling and noticed been posted to various locations around fun and relaxed family dynamics appeared an improvement in their communication Australia and was always accompanied by his to have been replaced with tension and and also their intimacy. family. Shortly after posting into a Townsville disconnection. At a friend’s suggestion Jenny was able to share her understanding based unit, he was deployed overseas for six they contacted Open Arms. After an intake from the Engaging Adolescents workshop months. He was involved in a life-threatening assessment, each family member was assigned with John and both parents noticed Sally’s vehicle accident and sustained a back injury. a counsellor. Following a comprehensive responses improving. Sally enjoyed working Despite that, communication between John assessment, goals were set with the family and with her counsellor and completing the and the family was kept relatively upbeat treatment plans put in place. skill-training homework activities she was and focused on the positives, including when John was working with his usual medical assigned to help her improve her self-esteem the family would be reunited. Both John nor officer to manage his lower back pain, and assertiveness. And, through counselling Jenny prided themselves on their resilience but found great benefit in the Open Arms it was revealed that Jack was worried about and ‘can do’ attitudes. Managing your Pain group. With individual his father being killed overseas and having to Jenny initially managed well but after counselling he worked through the life- step up to support his mother. Using a model being retrenched from her job, she wasn’t threatening experience using a trauma that focuses on the whole family unit, the sleeping well and was drinking more alcohol focused approach, finding his mood and family learned practical problem-solving skills than usual. She’d also withdrawn from social sleep significantly improved. He also found it and strategies to assist Jack manage his fears activities and exercise. Sally’s behaviour also helpful to connect with a peer support worker and connect with school-based supports.

SUPPORTING VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES

At Open Arms your wellbeing is our business. We offer free: confidential counselling for individuals, couples and families group programs transition workshops peer networks suicide prevention training information, education, self-help resources, and more... 1800 011 046 OpenArms.gov.au

A service founded by Vietnam veterans, now for all veterans and families

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 65 HISTORY. WARIES & STORIES

N EARLY JANUARY 1963, when I was a Corporal Firefighter, I was told to proceed to medical to have my injections bought up to date. I Iwas then to depart Townsville by civilian aircraft for Sydney, board a Qantas flight to Singapore, then a Malay Air flight to Butterworth. From there I would board a C130 to Ubon, Thailand. The journey was unusual for several reasons. At the time, it was mandatory to travel in uniform, but I was told to travel in civilian clothes and was given an allowance to purchase them. I was not to divulge my destination to anyone other than my wife and parents, and was given a Sydney GPO box number for all correspondence. Instead of a passport, I and about 20 RAAF members bound for Ubon left Sydney with only our ID cards for identification. One of the RAAF members on the flight was a fellow firefighter, Ian Castles, who I knew as we had graduated from LAC Ian Castles, Cpl Pat Mildren the same Basic Fire Course. and A/Sgt Bill Beckett. The Qantas aircraft made a fuel stop at Djakarta where all passengers had to walk across the tarmac between AN AIRMAN'S two lines of armed troops. We had noticed on the landing run some 80 to 100 Russian-built military aircraft. Yugoslavia’s President Tito was due to visit the following day and security was tight. After more than 90 minutes’ delay, we returned to the aircraft and proceeded to Singapore. That was the last Qantas aircraft to land in Djakarta for several months. On arrival at the Ubon Base camp, we were allocated to an open hut which contained eight timber-framed hessian beds and open lockers down each side. On our first day we received a briefing on the role the Base (made up of 77 Sabre Squadron and Base Squadron), which was to assist with security of the large US Air Force (USAF) Radar unit VIEW located on the other side of the RAAF Base, and the Thai border. READING WING'S THREE-PART SERIES The Cambodian border was approximately 100km away, the ON UBON PROMPTED RETIRED F/SGT PAT Vietnam conflict was in its early stages and troops had entered Cambodia, MILDREN TO WRITE HIS ACCOUNT OF TIME and there were known communist SERVED IN THE UBON BASE SQUADRON. sympathisers in Ubon, a large area of which was known as Commie Corner and was strictly out of bounds.

66 | SPRING 2020 LEFT Gun pit at entry.

BELOW Hut 13, home. MIDDLE Card game, with Jim Cousins on the left and Pat Mildren second from right.

BOTTOM Side of an US O11A, RAAF TFA and our tent.

We were instructed to wear civilian why, he informed me a squadron of Thai clothes when visiting Ubon town and Air Force Trojan fighters normally carried were taken to town by truck. Our usual out a border patrol before daylight and haunt was a bar down a small street, should be returning. He said they did adopted by the Australians, with a large not radio in and would buzz us when sign proclaiming the “Kangaroo Club”. they were ready to land. They did and The administration section of the Base I swear they were within two metres was on one side of the runway with over the vehicle. I almost needed the aircraft repair and parking areas, a change of clothing. refuelling facilities and a large marquee, One road crossed the runway and part of which was the fire section’s we provided a control point to prevent office and standby area. I was replacing vehicles and pedestrians crossing when another Corporal from Townsville, Alf the runway was active. Aircraft activity (Dutchy) Holland, who handed over to consisted mainly of 77 Squadron Sabres me and left a week later. The following and the Thai T28 Trojan fighters. week Corporal Bill Beckett arrived from We received a weekly supply visit by a Australia and was promoted to acting C130 from Butterworth plus casual USAF sergeant two weeks later. freighter Aircraft based at Udon to our The fire section was manned by north, and a variety of Air America aircraft approximately six USAF, three RAAF including DC3 Gunship, helicopters and (gradually increased to eight) and three Helios, which flew across the borders Thai firemen. Initially we operated a with supplies and returned on most USAF fire vehicle known as an O11A, occasions with several bullet holes. which was later replaced with a RAAF I became friends with a Helio pilot TFA flown in from Butterworth. who informed me he and his aircraft On the morning after our arrival carried no identification and if he crashed I received my first driving instruction across the border and was captured he in the O11A. As I was driving down the belonged to no country. He told me he runway to carry out a strip check, my would pick up supplies and troops and instructor kept looking up. When I asked deliver them to various areas in Cambodia SQN7979 RAAF 79SQN PARADE 79SQN 79 SQUADRON WILL BE HOSTING A PARADE TO CELEBRATE THE CONSECRATION OF A NEW SQUADRON STANDARD WITH BATTLE HONOURS RECOGNISING 25 YEARS SERVICE AND BATTLE HONOURS FROM WORLD WAR II AND UBON. THE PARADE WILL TAKE PLACE AT 79THE RAAF BASE SQN PEARCE PARADE GROUND ON WEDNESDAY 18 NOVEMBER 2020 AT 0930 AWST. THE PARADE WILL 79 BE AN APPROPRIATE OPPORTUNITY TO CELEBRATE AND REMEMBER THE ACHIEVEMENTSSQN AND THE SACRIFICES OF THE MEMBERS OF NO. 79 SQUADRON. Past members of 79 Squadron are invited to express their interest in attending the parade; please send Expressions 79 of Interest and/or questions to [email protected] ASAP. Subject to COVID number restrictions, EOI applicants will be contacted closer to the parade date with further details. 79SQN 79 WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 67 HISTORY. WARIES & STORIES

LEFT Trojan fighters.

BELOW 77 Squadron Sabres. MIDDLE Fire Crew, from left, LAC Bob Cross, Cpl Ces Levine and LAC Bernie Winkle

BOTTOM Pat (in hat) and Ian (pith helmet) at Mun River. and Laos. He always left alone after an patrolling Service Police, made up of hour or two on the ground. We now know Australian, US and Thai military and local those pilots were members of the CIA. police. Not wishing to front the CO the When the Ubon Sabres needed next morning we retreated. The warning major servicing, which had to be “Stop or we will shoot”, followed by carried out at Butterworth in Malaysia, a pistol shot above our heads, inspired a scheme was devised where two us to demolish a bamboo fence but we Sabres departed Ubon and another two failed to escape. The next morning a departed Butterworth under the cover of member of the Service police who had a patrolling Canberra jet bomber. At the been on the patrol and who shared our border the Sabres would swap call signs hut congratulated me on our rapid action, so it would not appear Malaysia was and we did not suffer any repercussions. involved and also helped cover up the On another occasion a group of about activities out of Ubon. 10 of us hired an open bus-like truck Life was fairly simple as we were on to take us to the Mun and Mekong duty for 24 hours Monday to Friday and Rivers which formed the border with took turns to have weekends off as long Cambodia. The Mekong at this point is as there was no flying. When off duty we approximately 80m across and crystal could go into town and usually ended up clear. We were advised not to swim as at the Kangaroo Club. Of course, there the residents on the other side may not were several night clubs offering music, be too friendly. drinks and girls – the subject of constant During my time at Ubon there were warnings from the medical officer. some minor alerts including rifle shots Several were out of bounds as it was fired in the runway area one night, feared Communist living in the area may however we were never informed why. be tempted to present us with a grenade I left Ubon by C130 on 26 April 1963 if we gathered in one place. and landed back in Townsville on the On one occasion, I and about 29th. I was granted two weeks' leave four colleagues were taken to an and my debriefing was that I was not establishment we thought was clear. to tell anyone any details of my service Suddenly we were visited by the at Ubon.

’A Gathering of Eagles’ A NATIONAL COMMEMORATION of AIR POWER and AIR FORCES

ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN • HOBART SEPTEMBER 2020 •

The Royal Australian Air Force, Tasmania Division advises that due to COVID-19 it has been necessary to downsize the Commemoration. The following events will proceed – Remembrance Church Service, St David’s Cathedral, Hobart, 2pm Saturday 12th September 2020 and the Wreath Laying Ceremony, Hobart Cenotaph, 10.45am Sunday 13th September 2020 The dates for 2021 are Friday 10th – Sunday 12th September 2021

For more information visit the website: www.raafatas.com or contact the State Secretary: [email protected]

68 | SPRING 2020 CADETS. AAL

School at RAAF Base East Sale including over an hour for cadets to talk to FLTLT LIVING WITH SOCIAL DISTANcING Aimee Heal (Roulette Seven) and ask her questions about flying with the RAAF. SINCE MARCH, the Australian Air Like so many organisations and As some states relax restrictions, League (AAL) has had to suspend all individuals, AAL Squadrons took part a number of Squadrons are preparing face-to-face activity due to COVID-19, in the Light Up the Dawn movement on to restart operations in school term presenting a unique challenge. 25 April, with cadets and Officers joining three. While most regular scheduled In the beginning, we assumed it might in from their driveways, verandahs and events for 2020 have been cancelled, last a few months and some Squadrons balconies. In the lead up, members all Squadrons should be congratulated started planning to return to normal submitted photos and videos of on the resourcefulness and initiative operations under strict guidelines, but themselves reciting the Ode and their they’ve shown in these difficult times. with second wave infections it looks effort was featured on the Today Show’s like it could be some time before things dawn service coverage on Channel 9. return to something approaching normal While Squadrons cannot meet in all states. physically, most are now using technology One of the first events affected was to stay in touch and keep their activities Anzac Day. For more than 80 years, AAL going. One popular activity has been a cadets have taken part and assisted in regular online Q&A session with guest Anzac Day dawn services and parades speakers from aviation and defence across the country. The Air League was industries. Panellists to date have itself founded by Anzac George Robey, included airlines pilots, an aeronautical who was awarded a Distinguished engineer and an RAAF F/A-18 pilot, but Conduct Medal for conspicuous bravery the most popular session so far has ABOVE AAL cadets taking part in the Light Up the at the Gallipoli Landing. been a virtual tour of the Central Flying Dawn service featured on the Today Show.

WINGS ISSUE 72 NO.3 | 69 CADETS. AAFC

WORDS Flying Officer (AAFC) Paul A Rosenzweig

AIR AMBULANCE Q + EXPERIENCE CADETA PILOT URING A PILOT trauma incidents and life-threatening EXPERIENCE flight activity medical emergencies, to search and ABOVE Air Force Cadets from Warrnambool’s 413 in February, cadets from rescue operations. They also transfer Squadron with the HEMS4 AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter. Photo by PLTOFF(AAFC) Jane McDonald. No.413 Squadron visited the critically ill patients to major Melbourne DHelicopter Emergency Medical Service hospitals. The cadets learnt the Operations Wing, AAFC. Matt, now (HEMS) facility at Warrnambool airfield mantra, “Every second counts in a SQNLDR in the Air Force Reserve, to learn more about pathways a life-threatening emergency”. is also Executive Officer of No.418 to potential aviation careers. The Commanding Officer of Squadron, AAFC, an ADF Recruiting Helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft No.413 Squadron, based out of Tel Officer and an Air Ambulance pilot. are operated for Ambulance Victoria el Eisa Barracks in Warrnambool, Matt and the aircrewmen are employed by Air Ambulance Victoria (AAV), based PLTOFF(AAFC) Jane McDonald said: by Babcock Mission Critical Services at Essendon Airport and strategic “The HEMS crew gave 413 SQN a Australasia in support of AAV. locations throughout regional Victoria. fantastic briefing and then the cadets “We discussed career pathways Warrnambool’s HEMS4 has been got in the cockpit, had a go on the for ADF aviation roles, as well as civil providing an air ambulance service to winch simulator and even got to wash aviation roles (including pilot, aircrew south-west Victoria since July 2009. the helicopter. and engineer),” Matt said. Since 2015, the AAV fleet has "There were many, many questions In addition, Andrew Osborne, a comprised AgustaWestland AW139 and the HEMS team were fantastic Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance Flight twin-engine helicopters, capable of and very gracious with their time.” Paramedic with HEMS4, spoke with transporting two stretcher patients The tour was arranged by Matt Doyle, the group about careers in paramedicine, at a time. The helicopters are used a flying instructor with the Elementary including the study required to become to respond to everything from major Flying Training School of Aviation a flight paramedic.

LEFT The refurbished Demon 1930s Hawker Demon Propeller on display at the Macclesfield Sub-Branch RSL. Photo by Pilot Officer propeller (AAFC) Paul Lemar. A HAWKER DEMON propeller once to safely restore and mount. The licensed stone mason, at no cost. In owned by the Air Force Cadets is now restoration was completed by the local due course, a commemorative plaque fully refurbished and on display at the Men’s Club, which included a few RSL acknowledging the AAFC and all Macclesfield RSL in South Australia. members and the son of a gentleman involved in the propeller's preservation The Hawker Demon was operated by who had worked in the Hawker Aircraft will adorn the display. the RAAF from 1935, and 64 were acquired factory in the UK that originally made Flying Officer (AAFC) Paul Lemar, between May 1935 and May 1938. the Hawker Demon airframes. Commanding Officer of No.602 The 1930s propeller had long been The team obtained specifications and Squadron and Temporary Commanding in the possession of No.608 (Town of schematics from the UK to help with the Officer of No.622 Squadron, said: Gawler) Squadron, but after a depot restoration, which included soaking the “The Australian Air Force Cadets have clean-up it was donated to No.622 prop in a special solution for six months had a special bond with the Returned (Rural City of Murray Bridge) Squadron, and manufacturing special metal fly pins & Services League, Macclesfield which was in a better position to and a replacement metal cutting edge Sub-Branch for nearly 10 years, with refurbish it. Due to the nature of the for the propeller. members from both 622 and 602 work involved however, the propeller The propeller was mounted inside Squadrons attending every Twilight was in turn donated to a local RSL the historic Macclesfield RSL by a Anzac Service since 2011.”

70 | SPRING 2020 WHAT WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE OF FLYING SOLO? Q I made sure to thoroughly go through + my checklist and be on point with all my A radio calls while taxiing to the runway. Before I knew it, I was up in the air and CADET PILOT flying. I was concentrating so hard that I failed to realise the significance of what WHILE THERE HAS been an about how aircraft worked. My 12-year- I was doing until much later after the operational pause in cadet activities, old self would never have imagined flight. Upon landing and taxiing back to some have taken the opportunity to what he was going to achieve in his the apron, I was greeted with a big grin reflect on the milestones they have cadet career. from the instructors who immediately achieved to date. grabbed my hand to shake it once the WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST EXPERIENCE Cadet Under Officer Lachlan Davis canopy was open and the keys were OF FLYING? currently serves as the Cadet Executive on their hook. It all felt surreal. A Pilot Experience flight on a recruit Officer of No.428 Squadron training weekend back in 2015, in a Piper in Newtown, Victoria. Last year, Warrior. Years of training beforehand, he received an ADF Long Tan Youth reading books while travelling along Leadership and Teamwork Award, and the Great Ocean Road in the family car earlier in the year he became one of a served me well that day. I never did small group of Air Force Cadets to have feel sick while flying. Was I nervous? flown solo in the new Diamond DA40 Definitely. But I told myself I could NG aircraft. learn how to do this one day. Nothing CUO Davis spoke to the Public Affairs is impossible if you try hard enough. Officer for Aviation Operations Wing, Flying Officer (AAFC) Paul Rosenzweig, WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST EXPERIENCE about his cadet career to date. OF FLYING THE DA40 NG LIKE? WHAT MADE YOU WANT Stepping into the aircraft for the first TO BE A CADET? time was an awesome experience. When I was 12, my father mentioned Before me lay so many buttons, the idea of cadets, since a few fathers switches and two massive iPad-like ABOVE Lachlan Davis, a Cadet Sergeant at the time, is congratulated by his instructor WGCDR from his workplace had their sons and screens. I felt as if I was in a jet with (AAFC) Stephen Pepper (Officer Commanding Aviation daughters participating. Really, for me it all those screens. When in flight, the Operations Wing) following his first solo flight in the was the idea of putting on the uniform, aircraft was very responsive and I was Diamond DA40 NG on 18 April 2019. Photo courtesy learning how to march and learning a lot surprised at how smoothly she flew. Elementary Flying Training School, Point Cook.

SOME OF ADELAIDE’S Air Force Cadets started the year with a Pilot Experience flight from Balaklava airfield CADETS SAY “TANKS” and on return to RAAF Edinburgh posed to say "tanks" to their flying instructors. The cadets flew in the DG1000S two-seater sailplane glider operated by No.906 Aviation Training Squadron, a unit of Aviation Operations Wing, AAFC. The squadron has now been redesignated as Balaklava Glider Training Flight of the AAFC’s new Gliding Training School. Balaklava Flight is one of three centres of excellence around the country that enables AAFC cadets to experience the exhilaration of glider flying.

FROM LEFT CDT Nandini Agnihotri, CDT Iknoor Khurana, CDT Hayden Peel, CDT Fynn White, CDT George Rarichan, CDT Mark Gul, LCDT Ben Bryant and LCDT Mithusha Lansakara Mudiyanselage.

WINGS ISSUE 72 NO.3 | 71 PERSONAL FINANCE. TAX RETURNS

8 DON'T FORGET HOME-OFFICE CLAIMS. This year during the Covid-19 pandemic, be aware of the more liberal arrangements for claiming tax deductions 10 tax tips arising from working at home. The ATO website (ato.gov.au) has more on this. PREPARING AND LODGING A TAX RETURN ISN’T A FAVOURITE 9 PASTIME OF MOST AUSTRALIANS, BUT IT IS A DUTY MOST KEEP YOU DOCUMENTS. You should only make claims that OF US MUST UNDERTAKE. SO WHY NOT REDUCE THE STRESS are genuine and can be proved with AND COST BY BEING WELL-INFORMED AND ORGANISED? documentary evidence (e.g. receipts, FOLLOWING THESE TIPS COULD INCREASE YOUR TAX invoices, logbooks). Our tax system REFUND OR AT LEAST MINIMISE YOUR BILL. is based on self-assessment, which means you won’t necessarily be asked 1 DO IT ON TIME. Your tax return have a tax agent or accountant they to provide evidence of your claims. must be lodged no later than 31 October, are willing to recommend. However, each year many taxpayers unless you get an extension through a are selected at random for audit and those who make larger claims are registered tax agent (RTA). If you lodge 5 BE ORGANISED. RTAs/ your return after that date, you are likely accountants generally charge for often flagged for closer scrutiny. to receive a penalty. the preparation of your tax return by Therefore, keeping evidence of your reference to the time they spend claims is important. Making false or 2 DON'T WAIT TO GET CAUGHT. on it. Therefore, it’s important to be undocumented claims can lead to If you should have lodged a tax return well-organised when you meet them. substantial fines and regular audits last year and failed to do so, or if you Taxpayers who accumulate random of your tax affairs in following years. haven’t lodged one for many years, it’s bits of paper in the proverbial “shoe 10 strongly recommended that you lodge box” to justify their claims, or who have PAY ATTENTION TO DETAILS. any outstanding returns voluntarily, insufficient evidence of claims they wish Generally speaking, your income from rather than getting caught by the to make, will end up paying far more in interest, dividends and salary (including Australian Tax Office (ATO). That way, professional fees than they should, more tax deducted by your employer), will be penalties will generally be lower and tax than they need to or will receive a known to the ATO before you lodge your arrangements may be made to pay off tax refund that is lower than it should be. return. This is called pre-filled. However, any outstanding tax in a manageable you should check that the pre-filled information is correct and up-date it if way. In many cases, refunds will be due, 6 UNDERSTAND FEES AND necessary. You should also ensure that so lodging outstanding returns can even CHARGES. There are hundreds of be financially positive. options available when choosing a RTA/ any rental income or capital gains you accountant. Make sure you understand have made from, for example, the sale 3 LOOK INTO USING A RTA. their fee structure and get it in writing. of an investment property or shares, are If you’re not confident about preparing Fees should be a flat amount, not a properly disclosed. This process can be your own return, you need specialist tax percentage of any tax refund to which quite technical, especially when it comes advice or you’d like an extension of time you’re entitled. to claiming deductions against rental to lodge your return, you can use the income, so you may need to seek advice from a RTA/accountant before completing services of a registered tax agent. 7 WATCH OUT FOR your return. INVESTMENT SPRUIKERS. 4 CONSIDER AN ACCOUNTANT. Some RTAs/accountants are also The moral of the story is to be sensible If your tax affairs are complex, a qualified licensed financial advisers, mortgage and sleep well at night. As with all things accountant may be helpful, but make brokers and real estate promoters. Some in life, honesty and moderation are sure the person or organisation you will even offer to do your tax return for key when it comes to your tax affairs. choose is a RTA. If you do not have an free, or at a heavy discount, in return Sleeping well, knowing your tax affairs accountant, you may be able to find a for your agreeing to a “financial health are in order, is more beneficial than a suitable one through a professional body check” or the purchase of investment few extra dollars in your pocket from a such as CPA Australia or the Chartered products from which they will earn a dubious claim or undisclosed income. Accountants Australia New Zealand. commission or other incentive. You Both bodies have high minimum levels need to be aware of the motives of such Robert M C Brown AM FCA of experience and qualifications. We also advisers before you engage them to Chair, ADF Financial Services suggest members should speak to their prepare your tax return. They may not Consumer Centre colleagues or family to find out if they be acting in your best interests. adfconsumer.gov.au

72 | SPRING 2020 LAST FLIGHT. OBITUARIES

cynical view that you can’t be posted overseas unless you’ve been before. LEFT As Officer Commanding No.92 Wing. Three senior staff appointments in Photo: Department of Defence. both AFHQ and the Defence Materiel career path. However, with his grit Organisation rounded out 35 years of and determination (and with AVMED outstanding service before retirement in assistance), Staff overcame his problem 1997. Throughout this enviable career, to earn his pilot’s brevet. Staff proved to be a popular leader, Staff’s first flying posting was to winning the respect and admiration of 10 Squadron where he blossomed subordinates, peers and senior officers as both aviator and leader, achieving with a quick wit, innate compassion, a captaincy on the Neptune before the integrity and professionalism. end of his first tour. Then, after a year Owing to the COVID-19 restrictions, as ADC to the Chief of Air Staff (Air most of his many friends were Air Commodore Marshal Sir Colin Hannah) he joined prevented from attending a last instructors’ course at Central Flying farewell. However, as a testament to Stafford Thomas James School, East Sale. the high regard in which he was held, AFC In the next four and a half years especially in the maritime world, the at No.2 FTS Pearce, he rapidly crew with whom Staff flew as CO 23 June 1944 – 11 May 2020 progressed from line instructor to 11SQN organised a virtual vigil for him Flight Commander, directing special on the day of his funeral, where we STAFFORD THOMAS JAMES (known assistance to several individual trainees all joined with Elizabeth and family to all as Staff) hailed from Temora, experiencing unique difficulties. His own in toasting and remembering a true NSW, a place well known to Australian background, his genuine interest and his professional, an absolute gentleman, aviators. He received secondary natural instructional ability ensured their and a wonderful mate. education as a boarder at Newington eventual success. For that dedication, Neil Smith, with the willing assistance of College before entering the RAAF as well as his exceptional courage and Roy Phillips, Phil Byrne and Des Long. Academy in January 1962. His boarding skill in recovering a Macchi with a rear school experience possibly prepared him fuselage fire, Staff was awarded the better than his peers for life as a first- Air Force Cross, a rare honour granted year cadet, although maybe not for the only to highly capable individuals in 0600 roll calls, the polishing of boots, recognition of excellence and their belts, gaiters, rifles, urinal fittings and contribution to Service Operations. corridors, nor the extra drills received for Clearly destined for senior rank, Staff shortcomings in achieving these menial was selected for the maritime command but presumably character-building tasks! trilogy: CO of No.11 Squadron, OC Following graduation, Staff joined No.92 Wing and then Commander No.59 Pilots’ Course, where he Maritime Patrol Group, as well as unfortunately suffered from chronic attending staff college and national airsickness, a handicap that would have defence college, both in Canada, ABOVE As a student pilot on Vampire. convinced lesser men to change their adding fuel to the popularly held, Photo: courtesy RAAF Museum.

WINGS VOLUME 72 NO.3 | 73 BOOKS. REVIEWS Michael Nelmes REVIEW BY Michael REVIEW BY Bob Treloar REVIEW BY Bob Treloar

WE TOGETHER: 451 and 453 HUNTERS OVER ARABIA THE MISSING MAN Squadrons at War By RAY DEACON By PETER REES By ADAM LUNNEY Pen and Sword Aviation, RRP $53 Allen & Unwin, RRP $32.99 Tempest Books, RRP $39.95 HUNTERS OVER ARABIA provides THE MOTTO OF the Royal Australian READERS MAY BE familiar with the an in-depth account of the operations Air Force, Per Ardua Ad Astra – through histories of the RAAF’s World War II performed by Royal Air Force Hawker struggle to the stars, could not be ‘Article XV’ squadrons – those in the 450 Hunter squadrons policing the desert more apt for Len Waters, an Aboriginal to 467 number range – some of which wastelands and high mountain ranges man whose parents left the Toomelah have been covered in worthy fashion of the Middle East from eight airfields Aboriginal reserve to move beyond the by AIRCDRE (Retd) Dr Mark Lax. Now in South Arabia between 1960 and 1971. reach of authorities who could forcibly military and aviation historian Adam In the 1960s, that responsibility remove their children. Lunney, too, has proven equal to the extended over South Arabia, Muscat task. His second book is more extensive Len Waters was the only Indigenous in covering two ‘sister’ squadrons: and Oman, the Trucial States, Qatar Australian to qualify in the RAAF as a from 451’s time in North Africa in 1941, and Kenya, with the importance of fighter pilot during World War II. He flew through its operations from Corsica Aden bought into sharp focus by the 157 hours with No.78 Squadron, flying before D-Day until joined in France by discovery of oil in the Persian Gulf and from Noemfoor, Moratai, Balikpapan and 453 after the invasion, and post-war the nationalisation of the Suez Canal in Tarakan; 104 sorties were on operations, occupation duty in Germany. The earlier 1956. To maintain the peace, the RAF including 41 strikes and attacks. period of 453 Squadron, flying Brewster deployed three fighter ground-attack He finished the war as a warrant Buffaloes in Singapore-Malaya and Hunter squadrons, a flight of photo officer having served with distinction Spitfires with RAF Fighter Command reconnaissance Hunter aircraft, a squadron and was a much-respected member in England, is not included. of Shackleton bombers and various of the Squadron. Lunney’s research is extensive and transport squadrons and support flights. Waters commented that he never impressive. The core of the human While describing the many types of experienced racial discrimination during interest of the book is the oral history operations conducted by the Hunter his time in the Air Force, but instead had interviews with the few remaining veterans, including GPCAPT (Retd) squadrons, the author conveys the a strong sense of belonging to a team Alec Arnel, who in April celebrated tedium and the excitement of operating with an intense camaraderie. his 100th birthday. in an unforgiving environment. The book The Missing Man addresses Waters’ A large book at 319 pages plus provides an excellent insight into the use steadfast ambition, his perseverance photographs, it is a definitive and and flexibility of airpower and its ability to in the face of adversity, fortitude and very creditable history of two of the police a recalcitrant population in a rugged, daring to dream. The author confronts less-researched yet important RAAF remote and inhospitable region. In the the racial prejudice that dogged Waters squadrons. It will serve as both a day- 1960s air power enabled the size of the throughout his life – except while in the to-day diary and a source of veterans’ land force to be limited to one brigade. Air Force. Waters was very much “the recollections. Photographs have Ray Deacon’s RAF career included missing man”. been grouped into 16 glossy pages service in Aden, working on a front-line Peter Rees has been a journalist for 40 in the middle and a useful epilogue operational squadron equipped with years, federal political correspondent for gives detailed technical notes on the ground-attack and fighter reconnaissance several newspapers and is the author of fighter types flown by the squadrons: versions of the Hawker aircraft. numerous books. Hurricanes, various marks of Spitfire between 1 and 21, and Typhoons. A beautifully presented book, well The Missing Man reminds us of many While there are numerous tables populated with photographs of the things we need to hear. It is an easy-to- in the book, a useful addition would aircraft, it will have a strong appeal to read book and absorbs the reader into have been a short chronology of the those who have been associated with the life of Len Waters, fighter pilot, movements of each squadron, which flying operations or have an interest family man, shearer, Kamilaroi man. can be confusing in the text. in military aviation activities. I recommend it to all Australians.

74 | SPRING 2020 [WAT25117] Waterlea - Full Page Press Ad – 275mm tall x 210mm wide + 5mm bleed (no trim marks) –Artwork @ 100%

OPENING Childcare SEPTEMBER Centre 2020 opening at #hometowaterlea Waterlea

• Located just 6 mins from RAAF Base Amberley • Operated by family-owned LEAD Childcare in the heart of Waterlea • 136-place childcare centre • Linen & nappy service for under 2’s • Chef prepared meals onsite daily • “Paddock-to-plate” program and dedicated art studio • Queensland Government Approved Kindergarten Program

CONTACT 1300 633 175 OR [email protected]

• RESIDENTIAL LAND FOR SALE FROM $161K

oad

R

Wallace Street mberley • BLOCKS UP TO 800SQM A

-

oad aiglsea R H • WALK TO LOCAL PRIMARY SCHOOL, ohl R To I Walloon pswich Saloon SHOPS & TRAIN STATION Road osewood School -R IGA Karrabin Train RAAF Base • ONSITE CAFÉ, PARKS 6 mins & PLAYGROUNDS

WATERLEA.COM.AU VISIT OUR SALES CENTRE BULLET_25117

WAT25117_Waterlea_PressAd_FP_210x275_V1a.indd 1 4/8/20 2:18 pm Doing everything you’d Doingexpect everything and more you’d expect and more Successful military operations rely on innovation and intelligent support solutions. We deliver services around the world, around the clock to ensure our customers have the power whenever and wherever they need it. We offer a portfolio of services, which means Successful military operations rely on innovation and intelligent support solutions. customers can pick exactly what they need. We can manage your engines through our We deliver services around the world, around the clock to ensure our customers have the MissionCare® service, allowing your focus on your operations, or we can help in many other powerways. Whetherwhenever you and need wherever help with they delivering need it. We training, offer a options portfolio for of managing services, whichyour fleet means of customersengines or cantimely pick technical exactly whatadvice, they we need.have the We tools can manage that you your need. engines through our MissionCare® service, allowing your focus on your operations, or we can help in many other ways. Whether you need help with delivering training, options for managing your fleet of engines or timely technical advice, we have the tools that you need.