25 June 2025
A first-of-its-kind sister squadron arrangement between the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and United States Air Force (USAF) was signed at RAAF Base Amberley in May.
The sister squadron arrangement aims to deepen mutual understanding at individual and unit levels in order to enhance the interoperability of the Contingency Response (CR) capability.
It was signed during the 38XSQN conference, hosted by 382 Squadron. The conference provided opportunities for discourse on topics relevant to deployed airbase operations and CR.
Wing Commander Paul Rickert said the idea of establishing an arrangement between RAAF and USAF CR elements originated during 382 Squadron deployment on Exercise Cope North 23.
“The arrangement enables greater understanding of deployed airbase operations tactics, techniques and procedures,” Wing Commander Rickert said.
“It aims to further enhance interoperability through increased attendance at operations and exercises through the sharing of procedures in key areas with potential for longer-term initiatives such as personnel exchange.”
Group Captain Paul Murray, Officer Commanding 95 Wing, ratified the arrangement during a signing ceremony at the 38XSQN Conference.
Colonel Daniel Mendoza, Commander 36 Contingency Response Group, signed the arrangement at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, several weeks earlier.
'The arrangement contributes to deterrence by demonstrating our willingness to work together to maintain a free and open Pacific region.'
Group Captain Murray said the agreement highlighted the strong relationship between RAAF and USAF.
“95 Wing and 36 Contingency Response Group have undertaken regular training together for well over a decade,” he said.
“The arrangement contributes to deterrence by demonstrating our willingness to work together to maintain a free and open Pacific region.”
Colonel Mendoza echoed this sentiment.
“The units of the 36 Contingency Response Group and 95 Wing have worked shoulder-to-shoulder, by echelon to hone each other’s skills and demonstrate a unified deterrence against our common adversaries,” he said.
“As our ties deepen through this strengthened bond, it will be an exemplar for all units in our respective forces.”
Both 36 Contingency Response Group and 95 Wing are designed to be first-in forces to establish and conduct CR and deployed airbase operations.
The CR units comprise high-readiness and highly deployable elements with a mix of many different specialist aviators whose mission is to assess, prepare and command an airbase for the projection of air power.
“We look forward to future opportunities for increased professional development and continued interoperability across the scope of contingency response in the region,” Wing Commander Rickert said.
