Escape to Learmonth

By SQNLDR Damian Gilchrist

	Photos taken by Corporal Gary Dixon

TWENTY minutes flying east from RAAF Base Learmonth are the Hammersley Ranges where desert “moonscapes”, broad valleys, and expansive mining infrastructure present ideal terrain and clear air for Hawk 127 Lead-in Fighter fast jet training.

Recently, elements of No. 79 Squadron Maintenance Flight and A Flight (Conversion) landed on the bare base that is located at the most western point of continental Australia.

Two weeks of operations allowed all current Hawk trainee pilots to be trained and tested in fast-jet tactical navigation.

High serviceability provided the capacity for advanced formation training. B Flight (Operations) participated in an escape and evasion exercise in week two.

No. 396 Combat Support Wing and Transfield contractors maintain Learmonth ready for action.

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