Versatile capabilities tested

By Flying Officer Laura Johnson

FLTLT Callum Carmichael from 3CRU at work during Exercise Talisman Sabre.

Photo by LAC Euan Grant

NO. 3 CONTROL and Reporting Unit from RAAF Base Williamtown convincingly demonstrated its versatile capabilities during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2005 by locating two lost American aircrews.

The exercise was a large commitment for the unit’s operations, technical and support staff, who were challenged to provide 24-hour, seven-day operational support.

The unit deployed a communications cabin, two electronic observation posts and 24 personnel in the Rockhampton and Mackay areas. It deployed a range of other assets including weapons teams and surveillance crews. Air Defence Officers were also attached to No. 41 Wing’s Wing Operations Centre (WOC) for liaison and watch keeping duties.

The exercise also enabled the unit to conduct exchange activities. Flying Officer Clint Huxley deployed aboard the US Navy’s Command and Control ship USS Blue Ridge where he was involved with the management of Defensive Counter Air assets.

Flying Officer Huxley said he benefited from his exchange posting aboard Blue Ridge.

“It was a great experience to be part of a US Naval element and work with ADF and US forces,” he said. “The experience will serve me well for future deployments and exercises.”

Meanwhile, US Navy exchange officer Lieutenant Bret Kutansky put his experiences aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk to good use when he bolstered the WOC. WOC and No. 3 Control and Reporting Unit staff were involved in liaison with agencies responsible for the coordination of ADF, US Navy and US Air Force assets.

At times liaison proved to be difficult but operators always seemed to find a way, including locating the crews of two USAF KC-135R tankers misplaced on the tarmac at Brisbane airport.

The contribution to Talisman Sabre was wide-ranging, and often challenging, demonstrating the unit’s capabilities. .

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