Air Force News, June 04, 2002

Welcome to Air Force News, the official newspaper of your Air Force.

Air Force News is published every fortnight except January for the information and entertainment of members of the Air Force and their families.

July 4, 2002

		Fighter of the future THE global stealth fighter of the future is likely to become part of the Royal Australian Air Force's arsenal under a program announced by Defence Minister Robert Hill.

		Hawks fly the nest No. 79 Squadron based at RAAF Base Pearce attempted to escape the southern winter by deploying to RAAF Base Learmonth for the period June 2-18, with eight Hawk 127 aircraft. This was 79SQN's first deployment for more than two years.

		Refuellers deployed THE second rotation of B-707 air-to-air refuelling aircraft and personnel deployed as part of Australia's commitment to the war against terror were farewelled at RAAF Base Richmond on June 18.

		Hornet upgrade:Phase 1 complete A SIGNIFICANT milestone was reached at RAAF Base Williamtown in June with the final F/A-18 modified under Phase 1 of the Project Air-5376 Hornet Upgrade (HUG) accepted by the Air Force.

		Getting most from F-111s While Australia has committed itself to the Joint Strike Fighter Project, a review is under way to ensure the Air Force gets the most out of an aircraft that at present is its most potent asset.

		He's one in 3000 A new elite pilot club, with a membership of just one, has recently been formed at 2FTS. Squadron Leader Jeremy Summers, Chief Flying Instructor at 2FTS, is the first Air Force pilot to complete 3000 flying hours on the PC-9/A Pilatus basic trainer aircraft.

		Fascinating Cat tales THE Catalina flying boats of the Royal Australian Air Force have a rich and varied history. Dubbed by some as the "ugly duckling" of combat aircraft, the Catalina played a significant role in Australia's involvement in the Second World War...

		Memorial to Dakota crew MORE than forty years after a DC3 Dakota crashed on a property in Western Australia, personnel from RAAF Base Pearce have returned to the site, supported by Aerospace Systems Management Pty Ltd, to dedicate a memorial plaque.

		Strike up the band THE RAAF Central Band has celebrated its golden jubilee. June 2 marked the 50th anniversary of the formation of the band. As with all milestones, there is much to reflect on for the unit, which has a wonderful rapport with the Australian people.

		Letters AIR Force is at a challenging juncture in its history. Stretched by a high operational tempo, personnel and experience shortfalls and ageing platforms, it faces significant challenges in maintaining and developing capability.

		Blazing a trail MEMBERS of the Defence Motorcycling Association are revving up for the Australian Defence Force Trail Bike Camp being held in Sydney from July 29 to August 4.

		On target FOR years Flight Lieutenant Frank Jones played a variety of mainstream sports, competing in combined services cricket, inter-service badminton and volleyball teams.But the Air Traffic Control Instructor from RAAF Base East Sale has recently added another string to his bow, adapting to the comparatively low profile sport of archery with aplomb.