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2SQN gets a workout
By SQNLDR Gary Lewis
Volume 49, No. 15, August 23, 2007 |
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NEW SIGHT: Above and below, visiting 10SQN AP-3Cs and USN P3s on the 2SQN hardstand at RAAF Base Williamtown.
Photos by LACW Veronica McKenna |
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The new Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) facilities at 2SQN were put to the test when a maritime aircraft contingent made RAAF Base Williamtown its home during the US Navy’s recent visit to Australia.
Two AP-3Cs from 10SQN, three Orions from VP-10 (USN P-3C squadron) and 100 maintainers and support members occupied the 2SQN headquarters and maintenance hangar during the month-long deployment for Exercise Talisman Saber.
The major exercise was the first time the 2SQN facilities have been occupied by such a large number of aircraft and personnel operating around-the-clock, according to 2SQN XO SQNLDR Carl Zell.
“The Orion deployment proved to be an excellent dry run for 2SQN and allowed them to test a number of their procedures,” SQNLDR Zell said.
The purpose-built facilities were also a pleasant change for AP-3C operations, according to 10SQN Maintenance OIC, FLGOFF Estevan Samanes.
“The previous Talisman Saber exercises have involved working out of ATCO huts, tents and shared operations and maintenance area,” he said.
“The best part was that the new 2SQN maintenance areas were large enough to allow the USN and Australian ground crews to work side-by-side.
“The lack of suitable facilities on previous exercises usually meant we were separated from coalition forces and opportunities to learn from one another were lost.” |
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