Seahawks sound

PROUD RECORD: Sikorsky representative Jan Domanski presents an achievement plaque to 816 Squadron CO, CMDR Andrew Rushbrook.

Photo: ABPH Bradley Darvill

 

Between 1988 and 1992 Sikorsky Aircraft supplied 16 S-70B-2 Seahawks to No 816 Squadron based at HMAS Albatross.

The squadron still has the 16 aircraft.

Just as important they have flown 50,000 hours.

This milestone was formally marked on February 11 when the General Manager of Sikorsky Australia, Mr Jan Domanski, presented a plaque of achievement to the commanding officer of the squadron, CMDR Andrew Rushbrook.

The presentation took place at a clear lower deck on the hardstand outside the squadron’s hangar.

Tigers 71 and 85 provided an appropriate backdrop.

Eighty officers and sailors listened as Mr Domanski told of the Seahawk Introduction and Transition Unit being established in February 1988 to bring the aircraft into service.

“The first flight at sea occurred in 1990,” he said.

“The SITU program was interrupted in August 1990 when two aircraft were deployed to the Gulf aboard HMAS Darwin and HMAS Adelaide.

“No 816 Squadron was commissioned in July 1992 with its full complement of 16 aircraft.

“Since that time flights aboard various ships have maintained a continuous presence in The Gulf.”

He said over the years the S-70B- 2 fleet has successfully operated in a number of environments from the Great Southern Ocean to the tropics and in almost every city, country or theatre where the RAN has visited or operated.

“The roles that the aircraft were designed for have been successfully demonstrated on numerous occasions,” he said.

“They have also successfully completed many other tasks, rescuing yachtsmen, capturing drug smugglers, evacuation and rescues during natural disasters and countless community support tasks.

“You should be proud of your achievement.”

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