Aircraft missile work amazing new challenge for Hibiscus Coast armament technician

“Getting out there and being hands on with ordnance is just one of those things you can’t beat,” Leading Aviator Kian Skelton said. 

He has been working as part of the deployed Armament Team during Exercise Valiant Shield, tasked with loading the Australian Defence Force-supplied missiles for the first time on an RNZAF aircraft.

“It was certainly an interesting challenge loading the Harpoon missiles in Guam weather,” he said.

“We were lucky to receive all four seasons’ weather and a week’s worth of rain all at once as we were loading the missiles. However, we pushed through to get the job done.”

The main highlight of Exercise Valiant Shield for Leading Aviator Skelton was the successful launch of the missiles.

“Admittedly I was a bit nervous when the time came for the launch, especially since the stakes were so high. But hearing we got the job done was the best feeling ever,” he said. 

Before going to Guam Leading Aviator Skelton along with other ground and air crew trained extensively with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) on how to safely load and use the Harpoon missile.

They worked closely with the RAAF’s No. 292 Squadron, the Australian Poseidon training squadron at RAAF Base Edinburgh, to prepare for the exercise and handling the Harpoon. RNZAF armament technicians were taken through the ins-and-outs of the missile, as well as practising loading and unloading the weapons.

“Being able to get hands-on with the RAAF was undeniably the best part of the training,” said Leading Aviator Skelton.

“Their ordnance load trainer, mock-ups of the aircraft, and loading systems, are so realistic to the point where the difference between training and loading for real are tiny. Being able to practise to such a high degree before the real deal was indispensable.”

Growing up in Orewa, Leading Aviator Skelton knew from an early age he wanted to do something in the services, whether it be police, fire, or military. 

“I joined the Eastern Institute of Technology’s Services Pathway course right after finishing high school. I wanted to be certain that my application to the forces would be the best possible, and that course was a tremendous help.” he said.

“During the course we were taken to Waiouru Military Camp to experience the military life, and it was here No. 3 Squadron flew in with two NH90 helicopters to highlight the Air Force. 

“It was here I knew what I wanted to do, having spoken with the pilots and loadmasters I decided that the Air Force was for me.” 

For those thinking of joining the military Leading Aviator Skelton says “just do it”.

“The longer you spend debating whether to hit send on that submission the less time you have working at what I would say is the best job ever.”