02 May 2007
The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) Iroquois helicopter detachment has completed its first operational mission in Timor Leste since its deployment to bolster the Combined Joint Task Force (CJTF) last week.
The combined RNZAF Iroquois and Australian Blackhawk helicopter mission flew from Dili yesterday to replace a New Zealand Army infantry platoon who had been operating in the Baucau region since early April.
It was fitting that the first operational task for the squadron detachment was a combined one, said the 3 Squadron Detachment Commander, Squadron Leader Tim Evans.
"We are here to support the Australian-led CJTF and conducting a mission of this nature highlights the ANZAC aviation element operating in Timor Leste.
"The detachment has now completed all its training and we are now ready for 24 hour operations in theatre", Squadron Leader Evans said.
Two RNZAF Iroquois and 32 air and support crew are working alongside Australian Defence Force aviation assets already in Timor Leste to insert and extract patrols and assist with the provision of aero medical evacuation and air logistic support.
The Ohakea based squadron will operate in Timor Leste for the next 12 months.
ENDS
For further information please contact Squadron Leader Glenn Davis, Air Force Public Relations, 04 496 0294 or 021 420899
Photo caption: A RNZAF Iroquois lands in Baucau supported by two Australian Army Blackhawks.
VIDEO: A day in the life of a RNZAF Pilot in Timor Leste:
This downloadable video shows the first Royal New Zealand Air Force operational flight in Timor Leste in five years. Flight Lieutenant Paul Aitken, a RNZAF Iroquois helicopter pilot, describes the May 1 flight and talks about what life is like working alongside the Australian Defence Force.