Tanks a lot for the accolade

Flight Lieutenant Paul Ryder with his commendation. Photo by LAC Greg Pierce.

By SQNLDR Christopher Ward
FLIGHT Lieutenant Paul Ryder, an aeronautical engineering officer at RAAF Base Amberley, has received a commendation for improving the serviceability of the F-111 fleet.

As OIC Fuel Tank Repair in 2001 and 2002, FLTLT Ryder led a team of personnel from Nos. 1 and 6 Squadrons and Boeing that has made marked improvements to the way in which the Air Force repairs and manages the F-111 fuel tank.

He coordinated and evaluated the on-aircraft trial of a Helium Leak Detector, which was a resounding success and allows for the rapid detection of fuel tank leaks.

He was largely responsible for introducing a Fast Curing Device into service and this has resulted in increased safety for fuel tank repairers and contributed to Air Force operations by reducing the down time previously associated with fuel tank repairs.

The Fast Curing Device works by emitting radiation which in turn reduces the cure time for fuel tank sealants. The Defence Science and Technology Organisation was involved in these successful trials.

FLTLT Ryder, a graduate of the Australian Defence Force Academy, said he was particularly pleased at the recognition for his work and that of the fuel tank repair team.

Importantly, these technical achievements contribute directly towards improving Air Force capability through increased aircraft serviceability and reduced maintenance time.

In the future, FLTLT Ryder aims to work as a Flight Test Engineer in the Aircraft Research and Development Unit.

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