FIVE NEW TANKERS
NO. 33 Squadron will get five EADS A330-200 multi-role tanker transport aircraft to replace its three ageing B707s under a $ billion package.

New group paraded
RAAF Base Williamtown has hosted a formal ceremony to mark a milestone in the organisation of Defence capability.

After 35 years, it’s goodbye
THE disbanding of Surveillance and Control Group (SCG) on March also heralded the end of an era for the outgoing Commander, Air Commodore David Pietsch.

Fighting fit at 50
NO. 2 Operational Conversion Unit celebrated the 50th anniversary of its Fighter Combat Instructors (FCI) courses with a unique fireworks display – a missile firing exercise on April 15.

Holding all the aces
SOME 30 fighter aircraft streamed from RAAF Base Williamtown in two 90-minute windows on April 6-7, their afterburners forming a spectacular river of fire in the evening skies.

Call to back leave guide
EMPLOYERS have been urged to consider new guidelines for leave for members of the ADF Reserves. Minister Assisting the Minister.


Our bright achievers honoured
THE winners of the annual Air Force Proficiency and Leadership Awards have been announced.


Wedgetail nest in US
TO PREPARE for the introduction of Wedgetails into service in 2007, an Air Force contingent has been posted to Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma, USA.

Easter in Baghdad
AIR Force and other ADF personnel deployed on Operation Catalyst celebrated Easter with low-key services.

Sir Jock drops in for chat
RAF Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup has made a flying visit at the invitation of CAF Air Marshal Houston.

Research centre opens
THE Departments of Defence and Veterans Affairs have provided $1.9 million to establish a new research centre focusing on the health of military personnel during and after their service.


Quicksilver response
AUSTRALIA’s largest and most ambitious counter-terrorism exercise, Mercury 04, has tested more than 3000 members of Australia’s national security agencies.

IN BRIEF

Images of Iraq conflict
A NEW exhibition at the Australian War Memorial, called Australians in Iraq 2003, provides an insight into the operations and experiences of Australians serving in the Middle East Area of Operations.


Survey on service
THE Corporate Services and Infrastructure Group (CSIG) is conducting a survey aimed at improving its services to the Air Force.