SERVICE KNOWLEDGE ADVANCED. Australian Air Force Cadets. Cadet / Instructor Notes

Transcription

1 SERVICE KNOWLEDGE ADVANCED Australian Air Force Cadets Cadet / Instructor Notes Rewrite Edition, 1 st January 2009

2 SERVICE KNOWLEDGE ADVANCED (SKA) (12 Periods) Level Attain Period SKA 1 HISTORY AND ROLE OF THE RAAF B 2 a. Describe: (1) The origin of the RAAF (2) The conflicts in which the RAAF has been involved b. b. State the peace time role of the RAAF SKA 2 ORGANISATION OF THE RAAF B 2 Describe: a. The broad organisation of the RAAF command structure b. The organisation of a typical Air Command base c. List the locations and role(s) of all current RAAF establishments SKA 3 ORGANISATION OF THE AAFC B 1 a. Describe the organisational relationship between the RAAF and the AAFC b. State the RAAF responsibilities to the AAFC c. Describe the organisation of the local AAFC Headquarters d. List the formal abbreviations for AAFC appointments SKA 4 HONOURS AND AWARDS B 1 a. Identify all Australian Defence Force Awards including Unit citations and commendations, and a selection of Australian Orders and Imperial Awards. b. Explain the difference between Operational, Non-Operational and long service ADF award. c. State the reason for the granting of awards, orders, commendations and Unit citations identified. d. Describe the correct method and precedence of wearing ribbons SKA 5 TRADITIONS OF THE RAAF B 2 Outline the history behind the following RAAF emblems and insignia: a. RAAF pilot wings b. RAAF motto c. RAAF Roundels d. RAAF Ensign SKA 6 SERVICE WRITING AND CORRESPONDENCE B 2 a. Outline the reasons for, and basic concepts of, service writing b. Outline the format and correct use for: (1) Minute (2) Note of Action (NOA) Reference: ADFP102 defence Writing Standards c. Outline the correct use of abbreviations SKA 7 EXAMINATION 1 SKA 8 EXAMINATION REVIEW 1

3 SERVICE KNOWLEDGE ADVANCED (SKA) SKA 1 - HISTORY AND ROLE OF THE RAAF 2 PERIODS Objectives Describe: (1) The origin of the RAAF (2) The conflicts in which the RAAF has been involved State the peace time role of the RAAF Introduction Australia has always been an air-minded nation. It was the first of the dominions to follow Britain in constituting a separate Air Force. The Royal Australian Air Force was formally constituted on the 31 March 1921, but the story of Australian Military Aviation stretches back to the first decade of the century. Origin of the RAAF Australian Military aviation can be traced to flights made by a Royal Engineer Balloon Section at the Sydney Agricultural Ground on 7-8 January 1901 but it wasn t till late 1910 that a plan for an Australian Aviation Corps was submitted to the Military Board by Senator Pearce, Minister for Defence The Commonwealth Government considered the problem of military aviation in 1911, Senator Pearce, Minister for Defence sent to the Military Board a plan for an Australian Air Corps. No further developments occurred until late 1911, when the Senator pressed his political colleagues for financial support to establish a flying school in Australia As a result, on 30 December 1911, the Commonwealth Gazette called for aviators and mechanics desirous of being appointed to the Defence Department. On 22 October 1912, an Army Order (Military Order No.570) established a flight of four officers, seven warrant officers and sergeants and thirty-two air mechanics. Land was purchased near Melbourne, at Point Cook for the first air base. The school announced in July 1914 that it was ready to begin teaching and it possessed at that stage two BE2A s, Bristol Box Kite and two Deperdussins. (The Deperdussin was a bird like wire and canvas aeroplane powered by a three cylinder engine. One is preserved at the RAAF Museum Point Cook.) acres of grazing land was purchased at Point Cook, Victoria at a cost of over 6,000 ($12,000), and the creation of the Central Flying School was announced on 7 March 1913.

4 1008. The school announced in July 1914 that it was ready to begin teaching and the first flying training course commenced on 17 August Training began with an intake of four students. Of the four who learned to fly that year, one became the first Chief of the Air Force (Air Marshal Sir Richard Williams). The First World War In November 1914, Australia s first aviation force of two pilots and two aircraft were shipped to German New Guinea to aid Australian Army-Navy force which occupied this territory at the outbreak of the First World War. However, there was little fighting and the disappointed aviators returned to Australia without their aircraft being uncrated On the 8 February 1915, a cable request from Britain to Australia for air assistance in a scheme designed to push the Turks from Mesopotamia (now Iraq) and allow the Indian Army to capture Baghdad. Australia responded with the famous Half Flight" consisting of four trained officer pilots and fifty men, sailing from Australia in April 1915, and rejoining the Australian Flying Corps in Egypt in The Mesopotanian campaign culminated in the tragic siege of Kut and the subsequent ignominious surrender of the garrison included nine mechanics of the First Half- Flight.

5 Australian Flying Corps As the titanic struggle intensified, both the allies and Germany realised the importance of air power. Britain was accepting pilots from the Dominions to man numerous squadrons of the Royal Flying Corps. Australia was awakened to the fact that she was losing a large number of pilots to England and the Government was pressured into forming the Australian Flying Corps. Australia thus became the first and only Dominion to establish her own flying corps in World War One. World War One Following the formation of the Australian Flying Corps in September 1915, the first Australian squadron was formed at Point Cook. No.1 Squadron sailed for Egypt in March The squadron fought in the Middle East and Lieutenant F.H. McNamara became the First Australian airman to win the VC for his heroism on 20 March However, the leading scorer of the AFC was 24 year old Captain A.H. Cobby from No 4 Squadron, who was credited with 29 aerial victories and awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross [DFC] (with two bars) and a Mention in Dispatches (MID) No.1 Squadron was followed by No.3 Squadron in October 1916 and No.4 Squadron in January No.2 Squadron was formed in Egypt from AIF personnel (many from the Light Horse) and this unit was landed in England on the 30 January Squadrons 2, 3 and 4 served on the Western Front between September 1917 and November A variety of aircraft were flown, including Sopwith Camels and Snipes, RE8s, SE5 and DH5s. After World War One After the War the flying personnel returned to Australia and in 1919 the Australian Flying Corps was disbanded. Although the Central Flying School continued to operate at Point Cook, military flying practically ceased until 1920 when the Australian Air Corps was temporarily formed. This Corps was still controlled by the Army, but plans were under way for the establishment of a permanent air force. Then, after several Air Board and Air Council meetings funds were granted in the estimates for an autonomous military aviation service.

6 Formation of the Royal Australian Air Force On February 15th 1921, the Air Board sent a recommendation to the Air Council that the Australian Air Force be formed as from March 31st The Air Council and the Minister approved, and there came into being the "Royal Australian Air Force". The prefix "Royal" was granted on the 18th August The first flying by the new service was undertaken by veterans of the air battles, but on the 31st January 1923, 14 trainees began elementary flying training at Point Cook The foundation strength of the RAAF in 1921 was 21 officers and 130 other ranks. The original aircraft were Avro 504K trainers, Sopwith Pup Scouts, SE5 fighters, DH9A bombers. No squadrons were formed until July 1925, when No.1 Squadron and No.3 Squadron were re-activated. Shortly afterwards No.1 Squadron moved to Laverton, Victoria and No.3 Squadron to Richmond, New South Wales. The RAF type uniform was adopted, but the British blue grey was rejected for a distinctive blue cloth for the new service (one colour dye less than that of the RAN dark navy blue) Between 1926 and 1928 the Air Force assisted in a variety of national survey operations, mostly using the Seagull V aircraft. They surveyed the Great Barrier Reef, Papua New Guinea, New Britain, the Solomon Islands, outback Australia, potential civilian landing grounds and civilian air routes. They also assisted with search and rescue operations, aviation development and flying races. World War Two At the outbreak of the Second World War, Australia s air defence arm was still weak. Immediately war came, the RAAF was mobilised. Strength of the RAAF was 310 officers and 3179 airmen, operating 12 squadrons of some 246 aircraft, many of which were obsolete types The first of the RAAF to go into action was No.10 Squadron, whose air crews went to England just prior to the war to take delivery of Sunderland flying boats, for ferry back to Australia. Instead they stayed on for five years to fight as a unit of Coastal Command. The first squadron to leave Australia for overseas operations was No.3 Squadron, which went to North Africa in 1940.

7 1023. Representatives of Great Britain, Canada, Australia and New Zealand reached agreement at Ottawa, Canada, on 27 November 1939 to participate in the Empire Air Training Scheme (EATS). This scheme was to train aircrew for service with the Royal Air Force. Basic training was completed in Australia before undertaking advanced training in Canada (674 personnel also received training in Rhodesia) before service with the RAF In the war in Europe, Australia took part in every major action, including the Battle of Britain, the first Thousand Bomber Raid and the operations against the Dams In the Middle East and the Mediterranean operations the RAAF saw extensive action. RAAF personnel also saw service in the India-Burma area as part of RAF squadrons The Australians exemplified themselves in every major campaign front from the Battle of France, Battle of Britain, Normandy invasion, Egypt, the Middle East, Germany, Battle of the Atlantic, the defence of Malta, liberation of Italy, the Battles of the Coral and Bismarck Seas, Defence of Australia, to fighting in India, Burma, China, Singapore, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea and Pacific After the Japanese launched their first and simultaneous attacks on Pearl Harbour and the East Coast of Malaya, the government expanded the RAAF to 72 squadrons upon the entry of Japan into the war, and the emphasis this now placed on the Pacific region, made expansion vital to the effectiveness of the RAAF. Australia had four squadrons operating in Malaya in 1941, and their Hudson bombers and Brewster Buffalo fighters were immediately thrown into the war against the Japanese. They were outnumbered by the Japanese and suffered heavy losses In New Guinea the RAAF held the Japanese Air Force until relief arrived. At Lae on 22 March 1942, RAAF Kittyhawks inflicted the first serious setback experienced by the Japanese when the Kittyhawks destroyed twelve aircraft and damaged another five. The RAAF, along with its allies pressed home attacks against the Japanese in a mounting scale until the land forces mounted invasion after invasion. The RAAF forces bit deeper into New Guinea and the East Indies through to Borneo. On 15 August 1945 Japan surrendered without losing excessive face. After the surrender the RAAF flew just as intensively as before, on mercy missions, returning wounded, sick, prisoners of war and fighting personnel home World War Two saw the formation of branches of the service that did sterling work. The Women s Auxiliary Australian Air Force was formed in 1941, releasing thousands of men for operational service. The RAAF Nursing Service was expanded to provide in flight medical service. The RAAF Air Training Corps was also born during World War Two to provide pre-trained youth for both aircrew and ground crew musterings. The Occupation of Japan After the war, the British Commonwealth Occupational Force (BCOF) occupied Japan. The RAAF was requested to contribute three squadrons of Mustang fighters along with an airfield construction squadron, base and maintenance squadron, all grouped under No.81 Fighter Wing (Nos 76, 77 and 82 Fighter Squadrons, No 381 (Base) Squadron and No 481 (Maintenance Squadron)). The Wing was disbanded in November 1948, leaving only No.77 Fighter Squadron in Japan. Berlin Air Lift In 1948 Russia cut off supplies to West Berlin. To keep the city supplied the western allies were forced to fly in all supplies. The RAAF sent ten Dakota crews from No.86 Transport Wing in August 1948 with supplies and people from Lubeck to Gatow airport into Berlin until operations ceased in August The RAAF aircrew

8 transported 7,968 tonnes of freight and 6,964 passengers during 2,062 sorties and 6,041 flying hours. An Australian Dakota (A65-69) was presented for display at the Gatow Berlin Airlift Museum on 20 June Malayan Emergency The Malayan Emergency was declared on 18 June 1948 after Communist Terrorists attempted to overthrow the Government. Britain appealed for assistance and Australia responded with the offer of No.1 Squadron, equipped with Avro Lincoln bombers and No.38 Squadron equipped with Dakota transports to the anti-guerilla operations (RAF Operation Firedog ). Operating from RAF Tangah on Singapore Island, No.1 Squadron flew against the terrorists from July 1950 until returned to Australia in July No.38 Squadron also made an outstanding contribution dropping supplies and carrying troops. No.1 Squadron flew some 3000 sorties and dropped 85% of the total tonnage of bombs expended during Operation Firedog. Korean War On the 25 June 1950 Communist North Korea began an invasion of the free Republic of Korea. The United Nations immediately offered assistance. No.77 Squadron was placed under the control of the USAF on 29 June The squadron equipped with Australian built Mustangs and later Meteors took part in operations until cease fire on 27 July No.77 Squadron was supported by No.91 Wing of which No.30 Transport Unit (later to become 36 Squadron in March 1953) carrying personnel, freight and also operating in the medical evacuation role from Iwakuni. The return of No.77 Squadron to Australia marked the return of the last remaining fighter squadron from World War Two. Malta In July 1952, No.78 Fighter Wing left Australia to commence two years of garrison duties alongside the RAF at Malta. Although the RAAF was not a part of NATO forces, No.78 Wing Vampires operated in exercises as part of the defence force of Malta. They also took part in exercises in North Africa and Cyprus. In 1953 They contributed to the air defence of the Middle East, in NATO exercises, regular air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons practices, as well as participating in the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and the subsequent NATO Exercise Coronet staged in Germany - an exercise with over 2,000 aircraft and 40,000 personnel Families, technical and administrative personnel from Nos. 75 and 76 fighter Squadrons, No.378 Base Squadron and No. 478 (Maintenance) Squadron also travelled to Malta No.78 Wing represented the RAAF at the Coronation Review of the RAF in Britain. Later the Wing took part in exercises in Europe The Wing returned home to Australia in 1955, after returning their Vampires back to the RAF and then being re-equipped with Sabre aircraft. Butterworth-Malaysia At the Royal Malaysian Air Force Base at Butterworth opposite Penang Island, the RAAF presence is maintained by a unit known as RAAF Support Unit Butterworth after some 30 odd years of full time operations by the RAAF in the area The Base, occupied by the Japanese during the Second World War, was originally used by the RAF as a staging post to the Far East. After the War the RAF used the base for operations against the Communist Terrorists Following the decision to allot RAAF forces to Malaya, the RAAF s No.2 Airfield Construction Squadron moved to Butterworth in 1955 and transformed it into the finest air base in the Far East. No.2 Squadron, equipped with Canberra bombers

9 arrived in July 1958 followed by No.78(F) Wing with No s 3 and 77 Squadrons equipped with Sabre aircraft. In 1967 No.2 Squadron was withdrawn for operations in South Vietnam. In 1968 both fighter squadrons were re-equipped with Mirage fighters and 77 Squadron being replaced with No.75 Squadron With the withdrawal of No.75 Squadron to Darwin and No.3 Squadron to Williamtown, No.79 Squadron was re-activated in March 1986 to become the last of the fighter squadrons permanently based in Malaysia. With the withdrawal of 79 Squadron in 1988, Australia still maintains a commitment by deployments for exercises with the Integrated Air Defence System. Thailand No.79 Squadron was reformed in Ubon, Thailand in June 1962 with Sabre aircraft. The squadron s role was the result of a request by the Thai Government and in accordance with Australia's obligations under SEATO, to help maintain Thailand's territorial integrity during the Vietnam war. At Ubon the squadrons primary role was to sit daylight air defence alert. Aircraft not on alert (ORP) flew combat training missions with the USAF. The operations at Ubon ceased in July 1968 and No.79 Squadron was deactivated. Vietnam The RAAF was tasked by the Government to provide air support to the war in South Vietnam. The Transport Support Flight with three Caribou aircraft was the first of such commitment. Operating from the US Army Base at Vung Tau, they became known as 'Wallaby Airlines', flying a variety of missions ranging from daily freight runs to Saigon to the support (sometimes under enemy fire) of special forces units. Three Caribous were destroyed (one by enemy mortar fire at That Son on 29 March 1970) and another two had to be returned to Australia for major repairs. The flight later became No.35 Squadron with seven aircraft serving from August 1964 to February Iroquois helicopters of No.9 Squadron also operated from Vung Tau between June 1966 and December Their main role was the support of the Australian Task Force based at Nui Dat. The squadron carried out slick (troop carrying), Dust Off (medivacs) and bushranger (gunship) operations In 1968, Squadron Leader Brian Dirou and armament personnel modified their aircraft to carry a forward-mounted 7.62 mini-gun, a rocket launcher and two M60 door-mounted machine guns Canberra bombers of No.2 Squadron operated from the USAF base at Phan Rang from April 1967 to June 1971 carrying out bombing missions. During its service with the United States Air Force s 35 th Tactical Fighter Wing, the squadron accounted for 16% of the wing s assessed bomb damage. Missions were radar directed (Skyspot) and low-level visual bombing Logistic support and medical evacuations were supplied by Hercules from Richmond, NSW. Air Defence Guards secured RAAF facilities at Vung Tau and Phan Rang A number of Australian pilots also served with the USAF as Forward Air Controllers (FAC) and a few as pilots of Phantom F4E fighter bombers. The withdrawal of the RAAF from Vietnam was completed on the 26 February 1972 with the arrival of the remaining aircraft of No.35 Squadron at RAAF Base Richmond. United Nations - India-Pakistan The Australian Government received a request from the UN to provide Tactical Support for the United Nations Military Observer Group patrolling the cease fire line

10 in Kashmir with crews supplied from No.38 Squadron between April 1975 and December United Nations - Egypt In July 1976, after a request to the Australian Government by the United Nations, No.5 Squadron deployed four Iroquois helicopters to Ismalia in Egypt. The aircraft and men served as part of the United Nations Emergency Force 11 (UNEF11) operating in the Buffer Zone between Egyptian and Israeli forces The detachment carried out reconnaissance patrols, medical evacuations, search and rescue tasks and transportation of personnel and equipment to otherwise inaccessible locations. This was the first time that helicopters were assigned to a United Nations Peace Keeping Force. In October 1979 after the force had been dissolved the detachment returned to Australia. Egypt-Sinai The Australian Government responded to a request by the United States to become part of a peace keeping force between Egypt and Israel. In April 1982 eight Iroquois helicopters of No.9 Squadron began operating from El Gorah in the Sinai as part of the Multinational Force and Observers, carrying troops and supplies along the CAFe fire line. This force was disbanded and the detachment returned to Australia on 21 March Timor On 25 October 2000 the UN Mission in Support of East Timor (UNMISET) was established by UN resolution 1272/99 and was implemented on East Timor's Independence Day, 20 May Afghanistan In October 2001, during Operation Slipper, Australia contributed two B707 airto-air refuelling aircraft and support personnel based at Manas, Kyrgyzstan to refuel coalition aircraft. A Detachment of F/A-18 Hornets was based at Diego Garcia, providing support to the Coalition Currently there is still two RAAF AP-3C Orion maritime aircraft on patrol missions and in support of aircraft carrier operations and maritime interdiction. Iraq March 2003 saw the deployment of 14 RAAF F/A-18 Hornet fighter aircraft, 3 RAAF C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, 2 P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft, and an Air Forward Command Element responsible for coordinating air operations with coalition partners and providing national control of RAAF assets. Peacetime Role Today the RAAF has the most advanced air weapons available to carry out its vital role, which is, in co-operation with the Army and Naval Forces, to ensure the safety of Australia s mainland and her island territories, or as stated in 1991 RAAF Mission statement: "Conduct effective strategic and tactical operations as an independent, joint or combined force in pursuit of Australia s defence and national interests". This role requires that Australia join with other countries in the defence of the South East Asia and the Pacific, the area of primary defence interest In peace time the RAAF provides an organisation, and administrative set up and a training system that can be expanded into an effective war time force. At the same time as training for this primary role, the service provides aircraft and man power when requested for: a. search and rescue;

11 b. medical evacuation; c. civil disasters; and d. other duties that it may be called upon to carry out.

12 SERVICE KNOWLEDGE ADVANCED (SKA) SKA 2 - ORGANISATION OF THE RAAF 2 PERIODS Objectives Describe: a. The broad organisation of the RAAF command structure b. The organisation of a typical Air Command base c. List the locations and role(s) of all current RAAF establishments Introduction The Royal Australian Air Force provides air and space power for Australia's security. It is the youngest of the three armed Services in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), the uniformed part of the Australian Government Department of Defence. The Royal Australian Air Force is the second-oldest independent and permanent air force in the world (after Britain's Royal Air Force). Air Force Headquarters is located in Canberra. Air Force employs about 13,500 men and women, supported by 2,800 Air Force Reservists and 900 civilian public servants, at 11 major bases and a host of offices across Australia. Air Force works closely with the Navy, Army and allied forces. Air Force Vision The Royal Australian Air Force will be a balanced expeditionary Air Force capable of achieving the Australian Government s objectives through swift and decisive application of air and space power in joint operations or as a part of a larger coalition force. It will be the most respected and valued Air Force in our region. It will be a model of how to build and sustain an effective, modern Air Force. The RAAF s professionalism and combat effectiveness will deter potential adversaries from actions detrimental to Australia s national interests. Air Force Values The Royal Australian Air Force stands for: Delivery of effective, precision aerospace power Defence of Australia s people, security and interests The Royal Australian Air Force aims to: Be a professional, highly motivated and dedicated team Develop and support its people Be a safe and equitable place to work The Royal Australian Air Force expects that its people will: Display honest commitment to the Air Force Values Strive for excellence as both leaders and followers Be fair to and respect the rights of others Encourage diversity in all its forms Balance work and personal commitments, including family and relationships, for themselves and those they work with Work together as a team Communicate in an open and honest manner Be capability focussed and operationally ready

13 Be professional and innovative Be recognised for their loyalty, integrity and determination Serve with pride and dedication. Higher Organisation of the RAAF Department of Defence (Air Force Office) is a Commonwealth Government Department under the control of the Minister for Defence. The department exercises governmental and financial control over the RAAF. Organisation of the RAAF Royal Australian Air Force, commanded by Chief of Air Force Chief of Air Force Air Force Headquarters, commanded by Deputy Chief of Air Force Directorates Air Command, commanded by Air Commander Australia Force Element Groups Wings Squadrons and Units The Chief of Air Force is responsible to the Chief of the Defence Force and Secretary of Defence for delivering Air Force capability for the defence of Australia and its interests. This includes the delivery of aerospace capability, enhancing the Air Force's reputation and positioning the Air Force for the future. Air Force Headquarters Air Force Headquarters is the organisation through which the Chief of Air Force (CAF) discharges his responsibilities for commanding the Royal Australian Air Force in the raising, training and sustaining of assigned Air Force capabilities. The Deputy Chief of Air Force (DCAF) acts as the manager of the headquarters Air Force Headquarters is integrated into the Australian Defence Headquarters and undertakes strategic planning and provides policy advice to the rest of Air Force, Defence and the Federal Government in regard to Air Force activities. Key focus areas for strategic planning includes resource planning, personnel planning, force disposition planning, infrastructure planning and future force considerations Air Force Headquarters includes: Office of the Chief of Air Force Directorate of Coordination - executive support to the Chief and Deputy Chief of Air Force Director-General Strategy and Planning - corporate and strategic planning, international engagement, workforce structures and future focus Director-General Capability Planning - current and future Air Force capability Director-General Personnel - Air Force career management policy Director-General Reserves - Air Force Reserve management Resources Planning - financial planning and management

14 Deputy Chief of Air Force Air Power Development Centre - supports strategic decisionmaking on the future of air and space power Air Force Headquarters Agencies - airworthiness, aviation safety and OH&S agencies The Deputy Chief of Air Force is responsible for the operation of Air Force Headquarters. The Deputy Chief chairs the Air Force Capability Committee and is a member of several committees reporting to the Chief of Air Force, the Chief of Defence Force and the Secretary of Defence. Warrant Officer of the Air Force The Warrant Officer of the Air Force is the senior non-commissioned officer in the Air Force, and advises and assists the Chief of Air Force and commanders on the morale, work and general well-being of airmen and airwomen. Air Command The Air Commander Australia is responsible to the Chief of Air Force for the management and production of prepared air combat forces and acts as Air Component Commander to Joint Operations Command (JOC). This responsibility includes: development of air doctrine development and sustainment of all air weapon systems including aircraft, combat support, command and control and enabling functions such as aviation medicine, specialist training, test and evaluation. management of all Air Force-specific training Headquarters Air Command coordinates Air Force operations. Headquarters Air Command is also responsible for developing and delivering the capability to command and control air operations. Headquarters staff assist the Air Commander to control the activities of six subordinate Force Element Groups. Air Combat Group Air Combat Group commands all the Royal Australian Air Force's fast-jet combat aircraft to deliver Australia's capability to control the air and conduct precision strike. Headquarters Air Combat Group (HQ ACG) commands three operational wings: No 78 Wing conducts operational training (ground and air) on the F/A-18B Hornet and Hawk at Nos 76 and 79 Squadrons, No 81 Wing controls the air with Nos 3, 75 and 77 Squadrons (all F/A-18 Hornet squadrons) and No 2 Operational Conversion Unit, No 82 Wing strikes designated targets and conducts reconnaissance with Nos 1 and 6 Squadrons (F-111s) and Forward Air Combat Development Unit (PC- 9/A) Air Combat Group is one of the largest Force Element Groups in the Air Force with 145 aircraft, 163 aircrew and 2000 support personnel based across Australia. It is responsible for all of the Air Force s F/A-18 Hornet, F-111 and Hawk squadrons, plus PC-9/A Forward Air Control aircraft. Units that make up Air Combat Group are based at: RAAF Base Amberley, near Brisbane, Queensland RAAF Base Williamtown, near Newcastle, New South Wales RAAF Base Pearce, near Perth, Western Australia

15 RAAF Base Tindal, near Katherine, Northern Territory Air Combat Group was formed in January 2002 by merging the Tactical Fighter Group and Strike Reconnaissance Group. The merger enhanced the RAAF s ability to deploy combat air power in a prompt, effective and highly integrated manner. HQ Air Combat Group is at RAAF Base Williamtown Since its formation, Air Combat Group squadrons have experienced a level of operational activity not seen in many years. F/A-18 Hornets were deployed to provide air defence as part of Operation Slipper (international coalition against terror) in Diego Garcia and again during Operation Guardian II to protect the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in south-east Queensland. Air Combat Group personnel, including a F/A-18 Hornet squadron, also deployed to Iraq in 2003 as part of Operation Falconer, providing air defence for high-value assets such as Airborne Early Warning and Control Aircraft, close air support for ground troops and striking enemy targets Air Combat Group also maintains a busy training schedule for both air and ground crew on the F/A-18 Hornet, F-111 and Hawk. Highlights have been providing support to Operation Acolyte (Melbourne Commonwealth Games 2006) and participation in high-end exercises such as Exercise Pitch Black in Australia and Exercise Red Flag in the United States. Air Lift Group The Royal Australian Air Force's Air Lift Group is responsible for providing the Australian Defence Force s combat airlift capability, including: air logistics support airborne operations special operations VIP transport air-to-air refuelling search and survivor assistance aeromedical evacuation training Headquarters Air Lift Group (HQ ALG) commands three operational wings: No 84 Wing - air-to-air refuelling, VIP transport and ground services training No 86 Wing - light, medium and heavy airlift Air Mobility Control Centre - central combat airlift tasking control centre Air Lift Group is one of the largest Force Element Groups within Air Force. Air Lift Group operates six aircraft types from three separate RAAF Bases and Defence Establishment Fairbairn in Canberra. It directly controls Nos 84 and 86 Wings and the Air Mobility Control Centre from its headquarters at RAAF Base Richmond. Air Lift Group's primary roles are: air logistic support airborne operations including airdrop, insertion and parachuting operations air-to-air refuelling Air Lift Group played an important role in ADF and coalition operations in the 1991 Gulf War, Cambodia, East Timor, Solomon Islands, Bougainville, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, War Against Terror and the 2003 Iraq War.

16 2026. Air Lift Group has also been used extensively for humanitarian missions and United Nations support: supporting humanitarian and reconstruction efforts after natural disasters o Cyclone Larry north Queensland 2006 o Pakistan earthquake 2005 o Indian Ocean Boxing Day tsunami 2004 search and rescue medical evacuations o Bali bombings 2002 and 2005 o Rabaul volcanic eruption 1994 o evacuations from Vietnam and Darwin after Cyclone Tracy other emergencies. Aerospace Operational Support Group The Royal Australian Air Force's Aerospace Operational Support Group enhances and extends Australian Defence Force combat capability by providing comprehensive, timely and integrated operational support that contributes to mission success and crew survivability. Aerospace Operational Support Group has its headquarters at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia, and units in Melbourne, Adelaide and Canberra. The group comprises: Information Warfare Wing Air System Development and Test Wing Woomera Test Facility Aerospace Operational Support Group has responsibilities across the ADF and the Department of Defence. The group s workforce are predominantly Air Force personnel but also include Navy, Army, public service and Defence industry personnel Aerospace Operational Support Group is heavily reliant on specialist facilities, high-technology equipment and highly-skilled people. Staff have expertise in a wide range of disciplines and comprise specialist engineers and technicians, highlyqualified test aircrew, computer system experts, skilled and experienced analysts, project and capability management staff and logistics specialists The group operates a variety of aircraft for test and evaluation purposes. F/A-18 Hornet, Pilatus PC-9/A, S-70A-9 Black Hawk and UH-1H Iroquois aircraft are permanently assigned to the group. Other aircraft may be assigned on a temporary basis The units of Aerospace Operational Support Group and their primary functions are as follows: AOSG HQ Information Warfare Wing is responsible for supervision, activity coordination and tasking of the following units: o Joint Electronic Warfare Operational Support Unit (JEWOSU) provides electronic warfare support to the Navy, Army and Air Force. The unit also provides subject matter advice to the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) and Defence Intelligence Group.

17 o o o RAAF Aeronautical Information Service (RAAF AIS) provides the ADF with tailored, accurate and current aeronautical information in both printed and electronic formats to support air operations. No 87 Squadron produces timely and precise Air Force intelligence and combat targeting products and expertise to the operational and tactical levels of the Air Force. No 462 Squadron seeks to exploit, and protect against exploitation of the information domain and supports operational commanders in providing a secure information environment to support air operations. Air Systems Development and Test Wing is responsible for the supervision, planning, project management, tasking and co-ordination of activities delivered by the following units: o o o o Aircraft Research and Development Unit (ARDU) Flight Test Squadron (AFTS) plans, conducts and analyses the results of ground and flight tests of existing and new Army and Air Force aircraft. ARDU Systems Engineering Squadron (ASES) designs and develops non-standard modifications, special test equipment and facilities, and telemetry functions to support flight tests. Aircraft/Stores Compatibility Engineering Agency (ASCEA) is the ADF design authority for aircraft/stores compatibility and air weapons engineering. Institute of Aviation Medicine (AVMED) ensures the effectiveness and safety of ADF air operations by conducting research and training ADF aircrew to understand and manage the physiological challenges of flight. Woomera Test Facility provides instrumented test and evaluation range support services to the ADF and the broader Defence community (both Australian and allied). Combat Support Group The Royal Australian Air Force's Combat Support Group (CSG) is the largest Force Element Group, comprising approximately 3000 personnel located around Australia and overseas. Its primary expeditionary focus is on establishing, operating and maintaining aircraft support services on forward operating bases, including bare bases in Australia s north, and in remote areas within Australia s area of strategic interest. The group is also responsible for providing the ongoing command and management of Air Force bases across Australia Headquarters Combat Support Group (HQ CSG) commands three operational wings: No 395 Expeditionary Combat Support Wing No 396 Expeditionary Combat Support Wing Health Services Wing CSG s main function is to supply the Air Force with vital services such as: airfield communications and navigational aids airfield engineering aircraft loading and unloading airfield rescue and fire services

18 airfield and aircraft security health support and aero-medical evacuation crews catering CSG's key capability is its ability is to take any combination of services from a fixed base and tailor an expeditionary package designed to meet the needs of a specific mission. To simplify planning, the Combat Support Coordination Centre (CSCC) was formed as the coordination point for all CSG expeditionary missions. The CSCC s role is to take direction from Joint Operations Command and provide CSG with mission-specific guidance. There are seven primary capabilities: expeditionary base support fixed base support evacuation handling centres health support security airfield engineering communications that may require any or all of the following services: aircraft loading and unloading security ground defence explosive ordnance disposal rescue services fire-fighting physical training military working dogs medical care dental care catering logistics administration airfield engineering ground engineering electrical engineering communications and IT support chaplaincy intelligence. Surveillance and Response Group The Royal Australian Air Force's Surveillance and Response Group is responsible for: all of the Air Forces air surveillance assets

19 maritime warfare aerospace, surveillance and battle space management developing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) and electronic warfare (EW) capabilities Surveillance and Response Group has over 2100 personnel spread across Australia working in the following areas: No 41 Wing (Air Defence) No 42 Wing (Airborne Early Warning and Control) No 44 Wing (Air Traffic Control) No 92 Wing (Maritime Operations) Surveillance and Response Group (SRG) was formed on 30 March 2004 by merging the former Surveillance and Control and Maritime Patrol Groups. Its motto is 'Foremost Sentinel', which encapsulates the group's contribution as the early warning and response capability of the Australian Defence Force Headquarters Surveillance and Response Group is at RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW. Its personnel are responsible for personnel management, capability management and development, technical capability and business management No 41 Wing (41WG) based at RAAF Base Williamtown, commands all of the Air Defence operational and training units. Spanning across Australia, these units include 3 Control and Reporting Unit (3CRU) and Surveillance and Control Training Unit (SACTU) located in Williamtown; 114 Mobile Control and Reporting Unit (114 MCRU) in Darwin and 1 Radar and Surveillance Unit (1 RSU) in Adelaide. SACTU provides the training for Air Combat Officers and Air Surveillance Operators to enable them to perform effective air battle management and surveillance operations. 41 Wing headquarters is chiefly responsible for tasking of its subordinate units in order to provide continuous wide-area surveillance, airspace control and execution of air battle management operations No 42 Wing (42WG) reformed on 1 January 2006 and is located at RAAF Base Williamtown. The Wing will deliver the Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) capability for the Air Force. This capability incorporates independent air and support operations in the maritime and land environments, with 2SQN supporting the aircraft and project at Williamtown. The AEW&C aircraft represents an entirely new capability for the ADF, providing a platform that will gather information from a wide variety of sources, analyse it and distribute it to all friendly air and surface assets. AEW&C will control the tactical battle space, providing direction for fighter aircraft, surface combatants and land based elements, as well as supporting aircraft such as tankers and intelligence platforms No 44 Wing (44WG), headquartered at RAAF Base Williamtown, commands all of the Air Traffic Control (ATC) detachments of which there are eleven across Australia. 44WG also commands the ATC Technical Ground Electronic Services (GES) workforce. 44WG through its detachments is responsible for the delivery of aerodrome and radar control services to Army, Navy and Air Force and also for the provision of tactical control of forward airfields, battlefield aviation and other airspace activity, both within Australia and for operational deployments. 44WG personnel have been actively involved in a number of recent operations including Sudan, East Timor, Iraq/Middle East, Solomon Islands and Indonesia. Their roles have ranged from active operational duties to peacekeeping and humanitarian missions.

20 2043. Headquartered at RAAF Base Edinburgh, No 92 Wing (92WG) has long been established as the first Maritime Wing in the history of the Royal Australian Air Force. 92 WG commands two flying squadrons, Nos 10 and 11 Squadrons, a training unit, No 292 Squadron; an operational detachment, 92WG Detachment A at Butterworth, Malaysia; and a number of operational support and development elements. Operating AP-3C and P3 Orion aircraft, 92WG s combat roles include anti submarine and anti surface surveillance and warfare for which the aircraft are equipped with torpedoes and Harpoon anti shipping missiles. The Wing is also responsible for conducting long range intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions in support of Australia s national interests worldwide. 92 WG is also responsible for search and survivor supply missions throughout Australia s region of responsibility. Air Force Training Group Air Force Training Group is responsible for training Royal Australian Air Force personnel and selected personnel from the Royal Australian Navy, the Australian Army and overseas defence forces. Air Force Training Group is also responsible for the development of training policy and procedures. The group also supports Air Force public relations activities through the well-known Roulettes aerobatic team, the RAAF Balloon, the RAAF Museum and the Air Force Band Air Force Training Group consists of a headquarters and three wings comprising six flying units (including RAAF Museum), 21 ground schools of which 10 are Reserve squadrons, and the Air Force Band Each of the four major units, have a specific responsibility in relation to Air Force training, and report directly to Commander Air Force Training Group: Headquarters Air Force Training Group Air Training Wing RAAF College Reserve Training Wing Air Force Training Group, formerly Training Command Air Force, came under the control of Air Commander Australia as a Force Element Group on 1 July The group headquarters is currently located at RAAF Base Williams - Laverton, Victoria, with previous sites including Albert Park in 1953, Victoria Barracks in 1959 and Point Cook in Headquarters Air Force Training Group (HQ AFTG), located at RAAF Base Williams - Laverton, Victoria, is responsible for the provision of policy guidance, support and strategic planning to Commander Air Force Training Group for the successful management of Air Force training. In addition, HQ AFTG conducts higher-level training evaluation studies, training design, research and development in the area of training technology, and provides oversight of rationalised training on behalf of Air Force. The headquarters also issues nationally recognised civilian awards based on Service vocational training and experience Air Training Wing is responsible for conducting basic and instructor training for pilots, air combat officers, and air traffic controllers; basic photographer training and aircrew combat survival training in the Air Force and for selected Australian Defence Force personnel. Air Training Wing manages the following units that are located throughout Australia: No. 2 Flying Training School (Pearce); Combat Survival and Training School (Townsville); ADF Basic Flying Training School (Tamworth); Central Flying School (East Sale); School of Air Warfare (East Sale); School of Air Traffic Control (East Sale); No. 32 Squadron (East Sale) and RAAF Museum (Williams Point Cook).

21 2050. Air Training Wing operates PC-9/A aircraft for Pilot training (at No. 2 Flying Training School) and Pilot Instructor training (at Central Flying School). No. 32 Squadron operates B350 aircraft that provide direct support to the School of Air Warfare. Air Training Wing also promotes RAAF Public Relations through flypasts and flying displays by the RAAF Roulettes, the RAAF Museum and the RAAF Balloon RAAF College is responsible for all initial, career development, promotion and leadership training. RAAF College also provides entry level and specialist training across a broad range of ground-base musterings and specialisations including security, fire and ground defence, administration and logistics, technical trades, and explosive ordnance. RAAF College manages the following Schools and Units around Australia: No. 1 Recruit Training Unit (Wagga); Officer Training School (East Sale); School of Postgraduate Studies (Wagga), with Corporal promotion centres at Richmond and Amberley; Air Force Band (Williams); Defence International Training Centre (Williams); RAAF School of Administration and Logistics Training (Wagga); Defence Explosive Ordnance Training School (Orchard Hills); School of Technical Training (Wagga); and the Security and Fire School (Amberley). RAAF College promotes Public Relations through the Air Force Band Reserve Training Wing formed on 1 January 2006 at RAAF Base Amberley. Reserve Training Wing provides ground training to the Air Force Reserve, and training and administrative support to ADF unit employing Air Force Reserves. Reserve Training Wing manages the following squadrons located around Australia: 13SQN (Darwin); 21SQN (Williams); 22SQN (Richmond); 23SQN (Amberley); 24SQN (Edinburgh); 25SQN (Perth); 26SQN (Williamtown); 27SQN (Townsville); 28SQN (Canberra); and 29SQN (Hobart). Organisation of Formations and Units Generally each command is established with the units necessary to carry out its allotted functions. There is no fixed rule in relation to the number and types of units within each command as this depends upon the nature of its present and future role. However, economic considerations, efficiency and span of control dictate that numbers and types of units be collated. The elements comprising a command are: a. groups; b. wings; c. squadrons; d. schools; e. depots; and f. units with special functions. RAAF Base Darwin The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base Darwin is one of our main forward operating bases. Located south of Darwin, the runway is shared with Darwin International Airport. It is home to: No 396 Expeditionary Combat Support Wing No 321 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron No 92 Wing Detachment Darwin - surveillance and response No 44 Wing Detachment Darwin - air traffic control No 13 (City of Darwin) Squadron - Air Force Reserve

22 No 1 Airfield Operations Support Squadron Detachment Darwin - airfield engineering No 3 Combat Support Hospital Detachment Darwin No 114 Mobile Control and Reporting Unit Detachment Darwin - radar operations. RAAF Base Tindal (Katherine, Northern Territory) The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base Tindal is 15kms outside Katherine and 320kms by road south-east of Darwin in the Northern Territory. Although the airfield was constructed in 1942, it is the Air Force's youngest operational base (excepting bare bases) and one of Australia's most important defence installations Originally known as Carson's Airfield during World War II, over the years it has been upgraded and extended for commercial use. In 1984, the government decided to establish an operational Air Force base at Tindal. The physical security it enjoys is due to its long distance from the coast, making it unlikely it will be swept away by a cyclone. Tindal officially opened on 1 October 1988 and is now the home of: No 75 Squadron - Hornet fighter aircraft No 44 Wing Detachment Tindal - air traffic control. No 1 Combat Logistics Squadron No 322 Combat Support Squadron No 1 Air Terminal Squadron Detachment Tindal No 2 Control and Reporting Unit The Army's North-West Mobile Force (NORFORCE) also has a detachment on the base RAAF Base Tindal is very much part of the Katherine community. Our personnel (including our families) make up almost 25% of Katherine's population of 10,000 people. RAAF Base Tindal's contribution to the local community includes such things as flood relief, Defence aid to the civil community and the use of some of the base sporting facilities. Tindal personnel have always shown a keen interest in supporting local sports, and they account for a large number of administrators and competitors. The people of Katherine are also extremely supportive of the base and its personnel and the close relationship is a feature of a posting to Tindal. RAAF Base Townsville The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base Townsville is an important forward operating base located north-west of Townsville. It is home to: No 323 Combat Support Squadron No 44 Wing Detachment Townsville - air traffic control No 27 (City of Townsville) Squadron - Air Force Reserve No 38 Squadron - Caribou light transport aircraft No 1 Airfield Operations Support Squadron - airfield engineering Combat Survival Training School - evasion and escape training Army's No 5 Aviation Regiment - Black Hawk and Tiger helicopters.

23 RAAF Base Amberley (Brisbane, Queensland) The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base Amberley is our largest base, employing over 3500 people. It is 40kms south-west of Brisbane on the outskirts of Ipswich. Best known as home to our F-111 strike aircraft, a large number of units call Amberley home: Combat Support Group o o o o o Combat Support Unit Amberley - base managers No 395 Expeditionary Combat Support Wing No 382 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron No 396 Expeditionary Combat Support Wing Detachment Amberley Airfield Defence Wing Health Services Wing o No 1 Airfield Defence Squadron - Airfield Defence Guards No 2 Airfield Defence Squadron - Airfield Defence Guards No 1 Air Transportable Health Squadron Reserve Training Wing No 44 Wing Detachment Amberley - air traffic control No 82 Wing - strike and reconnaissance o o No 1 Squadron - F-111 strike aircraft No 6 Squadron - F-111 strike aircraft No 36 Squadron - C-17 Globemaster heavy transport aircraft No 87 Squadron - photography No 278 Squadron - flight simulator and technical training No 1 Airfield Operations Support Squadron - airfield engineering RAAF Security and Fire School - security, fire-fighting and military working dog training RAAF Base Williamtown (Newcastle, New South Wales) The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base Williamtown is 30kms north of Newcastle. It is home to most of our Hornet and Hawk fighters and several headquarters: Surveillance and Response Group o No 42 Wing - airborne early warning and control Air Combat Group o No 2 Squadron - Wedgetail airborne early warning and control aircraft No 3 Control and Reporting Unit - radar operations Surveillance and Control Training Unit - sensor operations training No 78 Wing - operational training No 76 Squadron - Hawk fighter trainer aircraft No 2 Operational Conversion Unit - Hornet fighter training

24 o Forward Air Control Development Unit - PC-9/A trainer aircraft No 81 Wing - air superiority No 3 Squadron - Hornet fighter aircraft No 77 Squadron - Hornet fighter aircraft No 44 Wing Detachment Williamtown - air traffic control No 26 (City of Newcastle) Squadron - Air Force Reserve No 87 Squadron - photography Combat Support Unit Williamtown - base managers No 381 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron No 1 Airfield Operations Squadron - aifield engineering No 2 Air Transportable Health Squadron ADF Warfare Centre - strategy training RAAF Base Glenbrook (Blue Mountains, New South Wales) The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base Glenbrook, in the foothills of the NSW Blue Mountains north-west of Sydney, is home to Air Command. Some elements will relocate to the new Headquarters Joint Operation Command at Bungendore, NSW, in RAAF Base Richmond (Sydney, New South Wales) The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base Richmond is 50kms north-west of Sydney. Best known as home to our Hercules medium transport aircraft, a number of units call Richmond home: Air Lift Group o o o No 84 Wing - air-to-air refuelling, VIP transport and ground services training No 33 Squadron No 86 Wing - heavy, medium and light airlift No 37 Squadron - Hercules medium transport Air Mobility Control Centre No 44 Wing Detachment Richmond - air traffic control No 1 Combat Communication Squadron No 22 (City of Sydney) Squadron - Air Force Reserve No 87 Squadron - photography No 285 Squadron - Air Lift Group flight simulator and technical training No 1 Airfield Defence Squadron Detachment Richmond - Airfield Defence Guards No 1 Airfield Operations Support Squadron Detachment Richmond - airfield engineering No 3 Combat Support Hospital Combat Support Unit Richmond - base managers Air Force Band

25 RAAF Base Wagga The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base Wagga, in NSW's Riverina region, is home to Air Force trade training schools. No 1 Recruit Training Unit Ground Training Wing School of Administration and Logistics Training School of Technical Training School of Postgraduate Training ADF School of Signals National Aerospace Training Centre of Excellence Combat Support Unit Wagga - base managers RAAF Base East Sale (Gippsland, Victoria) The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base East Sale, in Victoria's Gippsland region, is the location of several specialist training schools. It is probably best known as home to the Roulettes aerobatic display team from Central Flying School. Air Training Wing Officer's Training School No 44 Wing Detachment East Sale - air traffic control No 32 Squadron - King Air multi-role aircraft Combat Support Unit East Sale - base managers Central Flying School - flying instructor training School of Air Traffic Control School of Air Warfare Photographic Training Flight RAAF Base Williams (Laverton and Point Cook, Melbourne, Victoria) The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base Williams comprises two bases 20kms south-west of Melbourne at Laverton (just inland) and Point Cook (on Port Phillip Bay). Each has a proud place in Australia's military aviation history, Point Cook as the birthplace of the Air Force and oldest continually-operating military airfield in the world, and Laverton as the Air Force's third base (since 1925, just after RAAF Base Richmond outside Sydney). The RAAF Museum is housed at Point Cook and the Air Force Band work from Laverton Operations at both bases have been reduced in recent times as the Australian Defence Force has concentrated on defending Australia's northern approaches. The two bases were merged into one in 1999 and the Laverton airfield was sold off for suburban development. The main function of the two bases now is training. Air Force Training Group o o o RAAF College Officers' Training School ADF School of Languages Defence International Training Centre - cultural and military familiarisation training for foreign military personnel training in Australia

26 No 21 (City of Melbourne) Squadron - Air Force Reserve No 1 Airfield Defence Squadron Detachment Williams - Airfield Defence Guards Combat Support Unit Williams - base managers RAAF Museum Air Force Band RAAF Base Edinburgh (Adelaide, South Australia) The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base Edinburgh is 25kms north of Adelaide. It is primarily home to No 92 Wing's AP-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft that conduct surveillance operations throughout Australia's airspace, Aerospace Operational Support Group that conducts research and development. No 92 Wing - maritime operations o o No 10 Squadron - Orion maritime patrol aircraft No 11 Squadron - Orion maritime patrol aircraft Aerospace Operational Support Group o o Information Warfare Wing is responsible for supervision, activity coordination and tasking of the following units: Joint Electronic Warfare Operational Support Unit (JEWOSU) provides electronic warfare support to the Navy, Army and Air Force. The unit also provides subject matter advice to the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) and Defence Intelligence Group. RAAF Aeronautical Information Service (RAAF AIS) provides the ADF with tailored, accurate and current aeronautical information in both printed and electronic formats to support air operations. No 87 Squadron produces timely and precise Air Force intelligence and combat targeting products and expertise to the operational and tactical levels of the Air Force. No 462 Squadron seeks to exploit, and protect against exploitation of the information domain and supports operational commanders in providing a secure information environment to support air operations. Air Systems Development and Test Wing is responsible for the supervision, planning, project management, tasking and co-ordination of activities delivered by the following units: Aircraft Research and Development Unit (ARDU) Flight Test Squadron (AFTS) plans, conducts and analyses the results of ground and flight tests of existing and new Army and Air Force aircraft. ARDU Systems Engineering Squadron (ASES) designs and develops non-standard modifications, special test equipment and facilities, and telemetry functions to support flight tests. Aircraft/Stores Compatibility Engineering Agency (ASCEA) is the ADF design authority for aircraft/stores compatibility and air weapons engineering.

27 o Institute of Aviation Medicine (AVMED) ensures the effectiveness and safety of ADF air operations by conducting research and training ADF aircrew to understand and manage the physiological challenges of flight. Woomera Test Facility provides instrumented test and evaluation range support services to the ADF and the broader Defence community (both Australian and allied). No 44 Wing Detachment Edinburgh - air traffic control No 24 (City of Adelaide) Squadron - Air Force Reserve No 87 Squadron - intelligence No 292 Squadron - sensor operator training No 1 Airfield Defence Squadron - Airfield Defence Guards No 1 Radar Surveillance Unit RAAF Base Pearce (Perth, Western Australia) The Royal Australian Air Force's RAAF Base Pearce is 35kms north of Perth. It is primarily home to No 2 Flying Training School and No 79 Squadron. The Republic of Singapore's No 130 Squadron is also based at Pearce. No 2 Flying Training School - PC-9/A trainer aircraft No 79 Squadron - Hawk fighter trainer aircraft No 44 Wing Detachment Pearce - air traffic control No 25 (City of Perth) Squadron - Air Force Reserve No 1 Airfield Defence Squadron Detachment Pearce - Airfield Defence Guards No 1 Airfield Operations Support Squadron Detachment Pearce - airfield engineering Combat Support Unit Pearce - base managers Republic of Singapore Air Force No 130 Squadron - S-211 fighter trainer aircraft RMAF Base Butterworth The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Base Butterworth is located in Malaysia and is situated in the state of Penang. Malaysia is a country in South-East Asia lying immediately north of the equator but below the hurricane belt. It is home to: 324 Combat Support Squadron 92 Wing Detachment Alpha Land Command Liaison Section (LCLS) Air Force Bare Bases The Royal Australian Air Force currently maintains three 'bare bases' in remote areas of northern Australia: RAAF Base Scherger, Weipa, Queensland RAAF Base Learmonth, Exmouth, Western Australia RAAF Base Curtin, Derby, Western Australia.

28 2072. These bases were developed from as early as the 1950s to protect Australia by providing support for maritime, air and land operations aimed at securing our northern approaches As front-line bases, bare bases consist of essential airfield support infrastructure such as runways, taxiways, parking areas and maintenance facilities which are used when the base becomes operational. Some equipment and supplies are stored at the bare bases for use when the base is activated, however, the bases house only a few caretaker personnel on a regular basis A bare base is usually activated as part of a major Australian Defence Force exercise such as Exercises Pitch Black or Kakadu. Activating a bare base means that the base is brought to a fully operational state. To do this, Combat Support Group supplies the support required to set up the base and sustain the flying operations of the aircraft participating in the exercise. The activation of a bare base practices vital deployment procedures and sustainment of support requirements for the flying operations. Annexes A. Force Element Groups B. Royal Australian Air Force Wings C. RAAF Bases D. Location of RAAF Bases

29 ANNEX A Royal Australian Air Force Force Element Groups o o Air Force Headquarters Air Command Air Combat Group Air Lift Group Aerospace Operational Support Group Combat Support Group Surveillance and Response Group Air Force Training Group

30 ANNEX B Royal Australian Air Force Wings Royal Australian Air Force o Air Force Headquarters o Air Command Air Combat Group No 78 Wing - operational training No 81 Wing - air superiority No 82 Wing - strike and reconnaissance Air Lift Group No 84 Wing - air-to-air refuelling, VIP transport and ground services training No 86 Wing - heavy, medium and light airlift Air Mobility Control Centre - central combat airlift tasking control centre Aerospace Operational Support Group Information Warfare Wing Air System Development and Test Wing Woomera Test Facility Combat Support Group No 395 Expeditionary Combat Support Wing - diverse expeditionary and fixed base combat support including airfield defence No 396 Expeditionary Combat Support Wing - diverse expeditionary and fixed base combat support including bare base management Health Services Wing Surveillance and Response Group No 41 Wing - air defence No 42 Wing - airborne early warning and control No 44 Wing - air traffic control No 92 Wing - maritime operations Air Force Training Group Air Training Wing - aircrew, air traffic controller and photographer training Ground Training Wing - all non-flying, technical and pre-employment training Reserve Training Wing - responsive surge capability RAAF College - all initial, career development, promotion and leadership training

31 ANNEX C RAAF Bases The Royal Australian Air Force has RAAF Bases throughout Australia. Air Force personnel also work in many other Defence bases and offices. RAAF Base Darwin, Northern Territory RAAF Base Tindal, Katherine, Northern Territory RAAF Base Townsville, Queensland RAAF Base Amberley, Brisbane, Queensland RAAF Base Williamtown, Newcastle, New South Wales RAAF Base Glenbrook, Blue Mountains, New South Wales RAAF Base Richmond, Sydney, New South Wales RAAF Base Wagga, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales RAAF Base East Sale, Gippsland, Victoria RAAF Base Williams, Point Cook and Laverton (two sites), Melbourne, Victoria RAAF Base Edinburgh, Adelaide, South Australia RAAF Base Pearce, Perth, Western Australia There are also three 'bare bases' in northern Australia, airstrips with basic facilities that the Air Force can deploy to and activate overnight: RAAF Base Scherger, Weipa, Queensland RAAF Base Learmonth, Exmouth, Western Australia RAAF Base Curtin, Derby, Western Australia There is also a small Royal Australian Air Force contingent at Malaysia's RMAF Base Butterworth.

32 ANNEX D Location of RAAF Bases A. RAAF Base Darwin, Northern Territory B. RAAF Base Tindal, Katherine, Northern Territory C. RAAF Base Townsville, Queensland D. RAAF Base Amberley, Brisbane, Queensland E. RAAF Base Williamtown, Newcastle, New South Wales F. RAAF Base Richmond, Sydney, New South Wales G. RAAF Base Wagga, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales H. RAAF Base East Sale, Gippsland, Victoria I. RAAF Base Williams, Point Cook and Laverton (two sites), Melbourne, Victoria J. RAAF Base Edinburgh, Adelaide, South Australia K. RAAF Base Pearce, Perth, Western Australia L. RAAF Base Scherger, Weipa, Queensland M. RAAF Base Learmonth, Exmouth, Western Australia N. RAAF Base Curtin, Derby, Western Australia

33 SERVICE KNOWLEDGE ADVANCED (SKA) SKA 3 - ORGANISATION OF THE AAFC 2 PERIODS Objectives Describe the organisational relationship between the RAAF and the AAFC State the RAAF responsibilities to the AAFC Describe the organisation of the local AAFC Headquarters List the formal abbreviations for AAFC appointments Source: AAP , part 1, chapter 2. Association with Air Force The AAFC, like its predecessors the Air Training Corps (ATC/AIRTC), has an important association with the Air Force. Air Force is committed to the provision the following to the AAFC: a. Increase support to the AAFC in order to capitalise on this significant source of recruitment. b. Administer, manage and improve the function of the AAFC. c. Develop policy for the AAFC. d. Ensure resourcing for the AAFC. AAFC structure and organisation/appointment responsibilities AAFC structure. Like its parent Service the Air Force, the AAFC faces considerable budgetary pressure to achieve the maximum efficiency in the deployment of capital and labour. The AAFC must continuously monitor its limited resources (people, financial and materiel) to ensure their effective use in achieving its objectives. As a volunteer youth organisation the AAFC must ensure that it maintains appropriate levels of supervision during its activities and conforms to both community expectations and legislative requirements with regard to its in loco parentis, occupational health and safety and financial management obligations. These responsibilities are broadly comparable to the corporate governance obligations of corporate entities The structure of the AAFC is designed to support the following key organisational requirements: a. to ensure that core duty of care obligations are met; b. to develop a structure that ensures that the maximum resources are deployed in appointments that directly benefit the training objectives of the AAFC; c. to ensure that support functions are resource-efficient and do not restrict the resources available for meeting training objectives; d. to develop processes and policies in support functions that contribute to overall AAFC self-reliance and improve responsiveness to squadron/unit operations; e. to facilitate skills development that provides for appropriate skills broadening and experience for all staff; and f. to provide for the smooth succession planning of key appointments at squadron, wing and HQs command level.

34 3008. The AAFC structure comprises: a. a national command element (Headquarters Australian Air Force Cadets); b. three functional wings comprising Air Training Wing (ATWAAFC), Ground Training Wing (GTWAAFC), Logistics Support Wing (LSWAAFC), and c. eight operational wings Headquarters Australian Air Force Cadets. Headquarters Australian Air Force Cadets (HQAAFC). comprises the appointment of CDR-AAFC and a support element to provide for the efficient leadership, management and administration of the AAFC Functional wings. Each functional wing is managed and administered by an AAFC Officer Commanding (OC) established at Wing Commander (AAFC) (WGCDR[AAFC]) rank. The role of the functional wings is to provide recommendation for the development of policy, and the management and control of programs that have a whole-of-aafc focus Operational wings. Each operational wing is under the command of an AAFC OC established at WGCDR(AAFC) rank. The role of the operational wings is to develop operating plans consistent with AAFC policy with due cognisance of the organisational objectives set by the functional wings, and then ensure that adequate controls are in place for effective implementation by subordinate squadron staff. The primary functions of an operational wing HQs are therefore focussed on the formulation of operating plans, the oversight of performance at squadron level and the delivery of AAFC services to cadets in accordance with national standards (as defined by the functional wings). Wing number allocations are as follows: a. No 1 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets (North Queensland) (1WGAAFC); b. No 2 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets (South Queensland) (2WGAAFC); c. No 3 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets (New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory) (3WGAAFC); d. No 4 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets (Victoria) (4WGAAFC); e. No 5 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets (Tasmania) (5WGAAFC); f. No 6 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets (South Australia) (6WGAAFC); g. No 7 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets (Western Australia) (7WGAAFC); and h. No 8 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets (Northern Territory) (8WGAAFC) Squadrons. The majority of cadet activity is performed under the auspices of squadron-based training. A number of squadrons will be formed under each operational wing that are each under the command of an AAFC Commanding Officer (CO). Squadrons are allocated to a wing on the basis of geographic location and the number of squadrons will be determined by the Commander AFC (CDR-AAFC), based on the available resources and ratified by AAFCEC Individual wing and squadron HQs organisation/establishment tables are determined by CDR-AAFC and are promulgated through AAFC Standing Orders. Variations to wing organisations must be submitted to the Director-General Cadets Air Force (DGCADETS-AF) for approval, through CDR-AAFC.

35 Organisation and appointment responsibilities Air Force. The Air Force will provide the AAFC with: a. materiel in accordance with approved scales of issue; b. financial allowances for officers and instructors and other authorised financial support; c. transportation as authorised; a. accommodation and catering as authorised; b. annual range practices (Service rifles); c. liaison with other Services and service providers; d. limited medical and dental care in accordance with Part 3, Chapter 4; h. access to appropriate Air Force-sponsored training courses (for example, Equity & Diversity, Occupational Health & Safety); and i. policy for the effective administration of the AAFC Director-General Cadets - Air Force and Deputy Director-General Cadets Air Force. DGCADETS-AF, subject to the Air Force Act, Cadet Forces Regulations and to other directions of the Minister for Defence, is responsible to CAF for the administration and control of the AAFC. DGCADETS-AAFC is Chairman of the AAFCEC and is a member of the Australian Defence Force Cadets (ADFC) Cadet Steering Group (CSG). In the absence of DGCADETS-AF, the Deputy DGCADETS- AF (DDGCADETS-AF) will assume this role. DDGCADETS-AF is responsible for the coordination of all Air Force support in regard to the AAFC Director Cadets Air Force. The Director Cadets Air Force (DCADETS- AF) is responsible to DGCADETS-AF for the day-to-day administration of the AAFC. DCADETS-AF is a member of both the ADFC Cadet Consultative Forum (CCF) and the AAFCEC. DCADETS-AF will also fulfil the role of CO for the Defence Force Disciplinary Act purposes in regard to the Air Force Liaison Officers (AFLOs) Air Force Liaison Officers. AFLOs are responsible to DCADETS-AF for: a. the establishment of effective liaison between the Air Force and the AAFC wing in the region; b. contribution to the development of AAFC policy; c. being conversant with all aspects of the AAFC behaviour policy, including all reporting aspects; d. the implementation of AAFC policy with respect to the control, administration and Air Force support of the AAFC wing in their region; e. the facilitation of planning and co-ordination between the AAFC and Air Force for those AAFC activities which require the support of Air Force; f. the facilitation of the development of AAFC SQN and WG business cases for accommodation solutions in their capacity as Cadet Accommodation Liaison Officers; g. the inspection of AAFC squadrons in their region in concert with the OC; h. making recommendations to DCADETS-AF concerning the appointment of AAFC officers and instructors;

36 i. ensuring that ADF logistics/supply and financial accounting instructions and procedures are adhered to; j. reporting to DCADETS-AF on a monthly basis the status of wing funds committed and expended; and k. ensuring that financial documentation (for example, the Financial Management Act and Director-General Personnel Business Rules) are briefed to OCs and implemented AFLOs have no command authority over the AAFC and should not direct the operations of AAFC units or determine the activities that the AAFC conducts. While the AFLOs are responsible to DCADETS-AF, they must remain responsive to requests from the AAFC executives. However, AFLOs are responsible for ensuring that funds are expended in a manner consistent with relevant Defence policies. In this context, AFLOs are required to authorise AAFC activities where Defence funds or resources will be applied. However, in these cases, AFLOs are only to withhold approval where an AFLO deems the activity to contravene safety considerations, or believes that the proposed activity is inconsistent with the requirements of extant policy or the AAFC Activities Plan as approved by AAFC Branch. In such an instance, the responsible wing OC is to be advised and the matter resolved through discussion Where issues are unable to be resolved at local level, or where the AFLO has cause for concern over matters relating to the internal command and control arrangements of local AAFC operations the matter is to be referred to DCADETS-AF who will address the issue with HQAAFC Commander Australian Air Force Cadets. CDR-AAFC is appointed by CAF and is responsible to DGCADETS-AF for the internal organisation, training, regulation, control and discipline of the AAFC. CDR-AAFC may issue local orders and instructions to all elements of the AAFC National headquarters staff. Within the AAFC National HQs, CDR-AAFC may appoint those who are responsible for various aspects of the AAFC at the national level. These appointments are responsible to the CDR-AAFC for their areas of responsibility. Duty Statements are promulgated by CDR-AAFC and issued in AAFC Standing Orders Officer Commanding. OC appointments will be made on a merit selection basis. OC appointments will be made by DGCADETS-AF on the recommendation of CDR-AAFC and will be ratified at the AAFCEC The OC of each AAFC wing is responsible to CDR-AAFC for the organisation, training, regulation, control and discipline of the AAFC wing under their command. OCs should be guided in the performance of their tasks by the duties and the responsibilities of Air Force OCs and COs. They may issue such standing instructions as are required to meet this responsibility No member of the AAFC has the delegation to authorise the expenditure of Commonwealth funds. This responsibility is vested in CAF and his delegates (eg AFLOs). However, OCs are responsible for the preparation of Annual Activity Plans which, once approved by HQAAFC and Air Force, form the basis for funding allocations against which AFLOs exercise their financial delegations Wing headquarters staff. CDR-AAFC is to recommend to DGCADETS-AF changes to the establishment of positions at wing HQs. The authorised list of these positions and the responsibilities are to be promulgated by CDR-AAFC in AAFC Standing Orders.

37 3027. Commanding officers. Squadron COs are responsible to the OC of the wing to which their squadron is allocated for the control, administration, training and discipline of the squadron for which they are responsible. They may issue such standing instructions as are required to meet this responsibility. Annexes A. AAFC Organisation B. Headquarters AAFC C. Headquarters Australian Air Force Cadets Functional Responsibilities D. Structure of 4WG Headquarters AAFC

38 ANNEX A AAFC Organisation CHIEF OF AIR FORCE NATIONAL COUNCIL REGIONAL COUNCILS AAFC EXECUTIVE COUNCIL DIRECTOR GENERAL CADETS - AIR FORCE HEAD, CADET POLICY (HCP) Cadet Policy branch (CPB) AAFC CDR-AAFC DCADETS-AF HQAAFC Officers Commanding Wings (8) (Officers Commanding) AIR FORCE LIAISON OFFICERS Squadrons (Commanding Officers) Cadets

39 Headquarters AAFC ANNEX B

40 ANNEX C Headquarters Australian Air Force Cadets Functional Responsibilities

41 Structure of 4WG Headquarters AAFC ANNEX D

42 4001. Objectives SERVICE KNOWLEDGE ADVANCED (SKA) SKA 4 - HONOURS AND AWARDS 1 PERIOD a. Identify all Australian Defence Force Awards including Unit citations and commendations, and a selection of Australian Orders and Imperial Awards. b. Explain the difference between Operational, Non-Operational and long service ADF award. c. State the reason for the granting of awards, orders, commendations and Unit citations identified. d. Describe the correct method and precedence of wearing ribbons. Introduction There is generally a certain amount of mystification attached to the stripes of coloured ribbon worn on uniforms by officers and men of Her Majesty Defence Forces. People associate the pieces of coloured silk with Orders, Decorations and Medals, but comparatively few can distinguish them by a mere glance at the ribbons. History and Origin The first known honour from a military point of view was bestowed on Sir Frances Drake by Queen Elizabeth 1 in 1588 for his work in repelling the Spanish Armada. This took the form of a large gold medallion worn on a ribbon around the neck From 1588, various awards were made to Commanders only, through the reign of the Stuart Kings to the time of the Peninsula Campaign which culminated in the Battle of Waterloo A slight expansion in the issue of campaign awards took place after Waterloo. Not only the Duke of Wellington but also officers of the rank of Colonel and above were found to have something to do with the success which had been achieved and so were allowed to wear the campaign ribbon issued, notwithstanding the objections raised by the Duke It was not until Queen Victoria s reign was well advanced that she won a lengthy and bitter battle with the Duke of Wellington and persuaded him that the troops concerned may have had something to do with the victory and so were entitled to wear the campaign ribbon also From then onwards campaign medals were issued to all personnel participating in a battle and not only to the leaders Queen Victoria s reign, being the most muscular period of Britain s expansion, was rich in campaign awards. China, India and Africa all added colour to the members of the service jacket, but Queen Victoria s reign will best be remembered for the award of the Victoria Cross. Manner of Wearing Honours and Awards Full details of the manner of wearing honours and awards are contained in Defence instructions. Generally they are worn above the left breast pocket in a sequence laid down in Annex B to DI(AF)PERS Ribbons are to consist of not more than four to a row, when rows of four are worn they are to be made up to display as many complete rows of four as possible, with part rows centrally at the top. Orders, Decorations and Medals are worn in a single horizontal line, suspended from a single

43 metal brooch. Examples of Ribbons are at Annex A and B, and the Manner of Wearing Medals at Annex K Ribbons are worn on the jacket of all seasons uniform, on the shirt when the jacket is not worn. Miniature half size medals are worn with Officer and Senior NCO Mess Kit The order of wearing Orders, Decorations and Medals will be in accordance with orders, but the following sequence applies: a. The Victoria Cross (Australian and British); b. Cross of Valour (Australian); c. British and Australian Orders in precedence; d. British and Australian Decorations in precedence; e. British and Australian Medals in precedence; f. Foreign Orders in order of date of award; g. Foreign Decorations in order of date of award; and h. Foreign Medals in order of date of award. Australian Bravery Awards The awards for bravery that might be worn by members of the RAAF are in order of precedence: a. Cross of Valour (CV) Australia s highest award for bravery. Awarded to Australian citizens for acts of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme peril; b. Star of Courage (SC) This award shall be awarded only for acts of conspicuous courage in circumstances of great peril; c. Bravery Medal (BM) Shall be awarded for acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances; and d. Commendation for Brave Conduct Awarded for acts of bravery that are considered worthy of recognition. These awards are available to both civilian and members of the Defence Force. Examples of these awards are shown at Annex C. Conditions of Australian Awards A person shall not be awarded an Australian decoration unless: a. he or she is an Australian citizen, or b. not being an Australian citizen, he or she has: (1) performed in Australia an act which a decoration may be awarded, or (2) performed outside Australia an act which a decoration may be awarded that merits recognition by Australia as an act in the interest of Australia. Australian awards are applicable to both civil and military personnel and can be awarded in both peace and war time. Order of Australia The Australian Government established a society known as the Order of Australia on 14 February The Order of Australia consists of two divisions, a General Division and a Military Division. The divisions of the Order are: a. Knights or Dames in the General Division (AK) or (AD)

44 b. Companions in the General Division (AC) c. Companions in the Military Division (AC) d. Officers in the General Division (AO) e. Officers in the Military Division (AO) f. Members in the General Division (AM) g. Members in the Military Division (AM) h. Medal Awards in the General Division (OAM) i. Medal Awards in the Military Division (OAM) Eligibility Australian citizens, including members of the Defence Force, are eligible to be appointed to the order as members in the General Division. Members of the Defence Force are eligible to be appointed in the Military Division. The Medal of the Order of Australia will be awarded as for appointment to the Order Persons other than Australian citizens are eligible to be appointed to the Order as Honorary Members in the General Division. Knights and Dames (AK or AD) Appointments as Knights and Dames shall be made for extraordinary and preeminent achievement and merit in service to Australia or to humanity at large. A Knight or Dame of the Order is entitled to use the title Sir or Dame as the CAFe may be before his or her name. The provision for appointment of Knights/Dames in the Order which was introduced in 1976 was removed in This did not affect appointments previously made at this level. The Sovereign as Head of the Order wears the badge as indicated in Annex C. Companions (AC) Appointments as a Companion in the general division shall be made for eminent achievement and merit of the highest degree in the service to Australia or to humanity. Appointments in the Military division shall be made for eminent service duties of great responsibility. Officers (AO) Appointments as Officers in the General Division shall be made for distinguished service of a high degree to Australia or to humanity. Appointments in the Military Division shall be made for distinguished service in a responsible position. Member (AM) Appointments as a Member of the General Division may be made for service in a particular locality or field of activity or to a particular group. Appointment in the Military Division may be made for exceptional service or performance of duty. Medal (OAM) Awards of the Medal of the Order of Australia in the General division may be made for service worthy of particular recognition. Awards in the Military division may be made for meritorious service or performance of duty Persons appointed to the Order are entitled to: a. use the letters of the Order placed after his or her name on all occasions when the use of such letters is customary, and b. to wear as a decoration the prescribed insignia for that class of the Order so appointed to.

45 Annex D shows various types of awards of the Order of Australia. Riband The riband of the Order in the General Division is a ribbon of moire royal blue silk 38mm wide, with a central band 12mm wide of scattered mimosa blossoms of various sizes. The riband of the Military Division is a ribbon of the size, colour and pattern as for the General Division with the addition of a gold band 1.5mm wide on each edge. Australian Military Gallantry Awards The gallantry awards for the Australian Defence Force were instituted on 15 January They will be awarded to members of the Defence Force and certain other persons in recognition of gallantry in action. The Awards are: a. Victoria Cross for Australia (VC) The decoration is the same as that instituted by Queen Victoria in 1856, but added to the Australian list of decorations. Shall only be awarded for the most conspicuous gallantry, or a daring or preeminent act of valour or self sacrifice or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy; b. Star of Gallantry (SG) The Star of Gallantry shall be awarded only for acts of great heroism or conspicuous gallantry in action in circumstances of great peril; c. Medal for Gallantry (MG) This medal shall be awarded only for acts of gallantry in action in hazardous circumstances; and d. Commendation for Gallantry The Commendation may be awarded for other acts of gallantry in action which are considered worth of recognition. Annex E shows examples of these awards. Australian Military Decorations (Operational Service) Distinguished Service Decorations were instituted on 15 January The decorations have been instituted to accord recognition to members of the Australian Defence Force and certain other persons for distinguished command and leadership in action or distinguished performance of their duties in prescribed warlike operations. The awards are shown at Annex F. These awards are: a. Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) Shall be awarded only for distinguished command and leadership in action; b. Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) This medal shall be awarded only for distinguished leadership in action; and c. Commendation for Distinguished Service The commendation shall be awarded only for distinguished performance of duties in warlike operations. Australian Unit Citations Two citations were instituted on 15 January 1991 to recognise gallantry or outstanding service in prescribed warlike operations in situations where it would be appropriate to recognise collectively the performance by all members of a unit. The two citations are shown at Annex E and are as follows: a. Unit Citation for Gallantry Shall be awarded to a unit only for acts of extraordinary gallantry in action; and b. Meritorious Unit Citation Awarded to a unit only for sustained outstanding service in warlike operations.

46 Australian Military Decorations (Non-operational Service) Further awards were instituted on 18 October 1989 to recognise the devotion to duty of other members of the Australian Defence Force during non-warlike activities. These awards are shown at Annexes F and G, and are: a. Nursing Service Cross (NSC) The purpose of the Nursing Service Cross is to accord recognition to members of the Defence Force and certain other persons for outstanding performance of nursing duties in both warlike and non-warlike situations. The decoration shall only be awarded for outstanding devotion and competency in the performance of nursing duties or for an act of exceptional dedication in the performance of such duties; b. Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC) Shall be awarded only for outstanding devotion to duty or outstanding achievement in application of exceptional skills, judgement or dedication, in non-warlike situations; and c. Conspicuous Service Medal (CSM) The medal shall be awarded for meritorious achievement or devotion to duty in non-warlike situations Service Awards In addition to honours and decorations there exists a large number of awards for service in particular combat areas, for general war service, long service and good conduct or service with a particular force. The better known medals and service awards worn by RAAF personnel are listed in the following paragraphs and shown in Annex H. Campaign Awards Campaign awards are awarded to personnel who have seen active service in that area of operations for which there has been a medal issued. These awards are worn in the order of occurrence of the campaign: a. General Service Medal (pre 1962) The General Service Medal was struck in 1923 to cover minor campaigns which did not justify a separate medal. Appropriate bars were attached to the ribbon to indicate the campaign. Australians could wear the following clasps: (1) MALAYA For service in the Malayan anti-communist operations; and (2) BRUNI For operations in Borneo as for Malaya. b. General Service Medal (post 1962). This replaced the pre 1962 GSM dating from service in Borneo in Appropriate bars that may be worn with the issue of the GSM are: (1) BORNEO For service during the confrontation with Indonesia; (2) MALAY PENINSULA: For service during the confrontation with Indonesia on the Malaysian mainland; and (3) SOUTH VIETNAM For Australian and New Zealand members of the service who served in South Vietnam between 24 December 1962 and 29 May NOTE: The pre and post General Service medal has now been replaced by the Australian Active Service Medal; c. Vietnam Medal The Vietnam Medal is peculiarly Australian. It is possible for members of the service who saw service in this area before and after 29 May 1964 to have been awarded both the GSM and this Medal. The Vietnam Medal a copy of the Australian Service Medal with the yellow and red of the

47 Vietnamese flag superimposed in the centre. Awarded to all Australians who saw service in South Vietnam after a qualifying period in the country; d. Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal Awarded by the South Vietnam Government for service in Vietnam after 31 July Worn by Australian forces as a foreign medal. Defence Force Service Medals The introduction on 13 September 1988 of a medal recognising operational and nonoperational service by members of the Australian Defence Force by service in warlike and non-warlike operations. The awards are shown at Annex I, and are as follows: a. The Australian Active Service Medal The purpose of the medal is to accord recognition to members of the Defence Force and certain other persons who render service in certain warlike operations. A clasp will display the name of the operation or conflict for which it is awarded; b. Australian Service Medal This medal shall be awarded to accord recognition to members of the Defence Force who render service in certain non-warlike operations. The medal may be awarded for service in or in connection with a prescribed operation; and c. Champion Shots Medal This medal was instituted for the purpose of encouraging skill in small arms in the Defence Force. Only one medal may be issued per year per service. It is awarded to the member who has been selected as the Champion Shot of the RAAF for that calendar year in a competition conducted for that purpose. Defence Force Service Awards The purpose of most of the awards are to recognise persons who render long and efficient service as members of the Australian Defence Force either on full time duties or as members of the Reserve Forces. The different types of awards are listed below and are shown at Annex J: a. Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (Air Force). Was awarded to airmen of the rank of Warrant Officer and below of irreproachable character who have served for 18 years. Officers who have had 12 years service before being commissioned were eligible after servicing a further 6 years. This award was replaced by the National Medal and then by the Defence Forces Service Medal; b. National Medal. This award was awarded to all members of the Defence Force in recognition of 15 years diligent service which did not have to be continuous. This award replaced the Long Service and Good Conduct Medals of all three services and this has since been replaced by the issue of the Defence Force Service Awards for Long Service in April 1982; c. Defence Force Service Medal. Awarded to all ranks for efficient service with the Defence Force for a period of 15 years. As with all these awards a bar or clasp is added for each completed further five years of service; d. Reserve Forces Decoration. Awarded to Officers of the Reserve Forces for not less than a period of 15 years efficient service; e. Reserve Forces Medal. Awarded to Warrant Officers and below who have served for a period of not less than 15 years efficient service; and f. Cadet Forces Medal. No longer awarded as part of the Australian System of Awards, but was awarded to members of the cadet corps who served for 12 years or more. Was awarded to Officers and Warrant Officers only. This was

48 due to the fact that being a British Award the AIRTC (British system) Instructors started at Warrant Officer rank. United Nations Medals Other awards for service that may be granted a nation are the United Nations Medals for Service. Australian Service personnel have been active in the past as part of a United Nations team and have been awarded various campaign medals to recognise this service. Awards that have been granted over the years are: a. UN Military Group India-Pakistan (UNMIGIP). Awarded to all ranks who served as part of the United Nations Group in India and Pakistan, tasked with the support of these forces between April 1975 and December Awarded for service of six months in the area and worn in order in which they are awarded after British and Australian awards; b. UN Emergency Force (Ismalia) UNEFU. Awarded to all ranks after ninety days service with the United Nations peace keeping force in Ismalia between July 1976 and October Worn in order in which they are awarded after British and Australian awards; c. Multinational Force and Observers (MPO). A combined RAAF/RNZAF Iroquois Squadron (9SQN) were deployed to El Gorah in the Sinai in support of the MFO forces. Although not an Australian, British or United Nations award, approval has been granted for the wearing of this service medal and is to be worn last after British and Australian awards. Annexes A. Details of the Ribbons of Orders and Decorations B. Details of the General Service Awards C. Australian Bravery Awards D. Australian Awards Order of Australia E. Australian Military Gallantry Awards F. Australian Military Decorations Operational G. Australian Military Decorations Non-operational H. General Service Awards Campaign and Medals I. Defence Force Service Medals and Awards J. Other Awards United Nations K. Manner of wearing Orders, Decorations, Medals and Medal Ribbons

49 Orders and Decorations ANNEX A

50 General Service Awards ANNEX B

51 Australian Bravery Awards (Civilian and Military) ANNEX C

52 Australian Awards Order of Australia ANNEX D

53 Australian Military Gallantry Awards ANNEX E

54 Australian Distinguished Service Decorations ANNEX F

55 Australian Conspicuous Services Decorations ANNEX G

56 General Service Awards and Medals ANNEX H

57 Australian Defence Force Service Awards and Medals ANNEX I

58 Other Service Awards and United Nations ANNEX J

59 ANNEX K Manner of Wearing Orders, Decorations, Medals and Medal Ribbons

60 SERVICE KNOWLEDGE ADVANCED (SKA) SKA 5 - TRADITIONS OF THE RAAF 1 PERIOD Objectives Outline the history behind the following RAAF emblems and insignia: a. b. Pilots wings Motto c. Roundels d. RAAF Ensign. Introduction The customs and traditions of the Royal Australian Air Force are important factors in the growth and maintenance of our esprit de corps. In many cases they concern matters which cannot adequately be covered by official regulations, nor indeed would it be appropriate for them to be dealt with in this way The customs and traditions of the RAAF and the AAFC/AIRTC are worth preserving. Their significance to you will grow as your service experience increases. You will be able to appreciate they represent a tangible and worthy aspect of service life that will stand you in good stead in any society. Origins of Customs and Insignia The customs and traditions of the Royal Australian Air Force are mainly based on those of the British Army and the Royal Air Force. Over the years, they have been adapted where necessary to meet Australian conditions and requirements. Others, unique to the RAAF, have evolved The Concise Oxford Dictionary does not define any period of years that establishes tradition, only describing tradition as that which is handed down by ancestors to posterity. RAAF Heraldry Heraldic devices have been used for centuries as a means of identification. In medieval times the monarch granted coats of arms to knights and lords in recognition of loyalty and support to the Crown, subsequent rewards where additions were sanctioned to existing coats of arms were known as Augmentations of Honour. Military badges are believed to have originated with the grant of "Honourable Distinctions", which were the Service counterpart of Augmentations of Honour and granted to military formations to commemorate distinguished service. They were later borne on Regimental Colours, dating from the (British) Standing Army of 1661, and now remain part of the British Commonwealth military heritage. RAAF badges and crests perpetuate this heritage The tradition of heraldry in the RAAF is inherited, coming from the RAF, Royal Naval Air Service, Royal Flying Corps and Australian Flying Corps. Both the Army and Navy have a deep and honoured association with heraldry, and it was not long after the formation of the first flying squadrons that unit badges began to appear. Many of these early devices were of a humorous nature and all were unofficial Historically, the King s heralds were tasked to trace pedigrees and it was Edward III who created the office of Chester Herald, with the responsibility for preparing coats of Arms to be granted by the Collage of Arms. In May 1935, the College of Heralds, in conjunction with the British Air Ministry, created the post of Inspector of RAF badges, who became the heraldic adviser to the Air Council on all matters concerning squadron, unit and formation insignia. In 1938 the Chester Herald was also appointed Inspector of RAAF Badges.

61 The RAAF Badge The RAAF initially used the badge of the Royal Air Force, which is described as "In front of a circle inscribed with the motto Per Ardu Ad Astra, and ensigned with the Imperial Crown, an eagle Volant and affront, the head lowered and to sinister". This badge was designed in 1918, revised in 1922 and registered on 26 January though not officially sanctioned until In January 1939 a truly Australian badge for the RAAF received Royal sanction. Whilst in many respects patterned on the RAF badge (as indeed were most badges of the Commonwealth Air Force), the new badge featured an Australian wedge-tailed eagle as realised by the then CAF Sir Richard Williams and had the title Royal Australian Air Force inscribed within the circlet, with the motto displayed on a scroll below the circlet The approved format after minor changes as approved by the Chester Herald as Inspector of RAAF Badges has the following colourings: The base of the frame is RAAF blue with the lettering in the circle in gold. The eagle is gold and red claws and beak. The scroll at the base of the badge is gold with black letters and the crown is gold with appropriate colours painted in to represent the jewels of the Royal Crown. Annex A shows the Badge of the Royal Australian Air Force. RAAF Pilots Wings One of the oldest customs is the award of wings, or more correctly The Flying Badge, to those pilots who have attained prescribed proficiency in the flying of aircraft. The first approved flying badge was approved late in January 1915 and contained the outspread wings with a crown over wreath containing letters AMF. The letters AMF standing for Australian Military Forces. With the formation of the Australian Flying Corps the flying badge of the RFC was used but with the letters AFC in lieu. It consisted of the wings of a swift in white silk with the monogram AFC in the centre encircled by a laurel wreath of brown silk surmounted by a crown. With the formation of the RAAF in March 1921 the flying badge was changed in colour to blue and white with the AFC being replaced with the letters RAAF and so became the present day "Flying Badge" of the RAAF Gold bullion badges are worn on the SD tunic with the older style blue white worn on working dress (flying suits CSW etc) and metal wings worn on shirts. Annex B shows the style of various RAAF Flying Badges. Motto Out of strange circumstances and after much controversy our motto originated on 15 March 1913 as that of the Royal Flying Corps, later adopted by the Royal Air Force in 1918 and the Royal Australian Air Force in In 1912 the first Commanding Officer of the Royal Flying Corps asked his officers to suggest a motto that would foster esprit de corps. Soon afterwards one suggestion was Virgilians Sic itur ad Astra. This merely suggested a journey to the stars but it seemed lacking for the purpose and was rejected. Ad Astra per Ardu, the motto of the Drummond family of Midhope County Perth U.K., seemed suitable, but was finally rejected in favour of Per Ardu ad. Although no specific record of the translation exists, many slight variations have been used since 1929, with the RAAF Chief of Air Force formally accepting the meaning, "Through Struggle to the Stars", in January The Eagle Still conspicuous in many forms on uniforms badges and memorials is the Eagle". It is one of the oldest remaining emblems, not only in use in the RAAF, but in many air forces of the British Commonwealth. For years after its origin with the RNAS, the identity of this bird was in dispute by naval personnel, who insisted that it

62 was an albatross. Both sides were badly briefed as the argument could have been settled by quoting Admiralty Weekly Order No.2 of 23 June 1914 which reads "The badge of an eagle will be worn by members of the RNAS at the top of the left sleeve". In 1921 Sir Richard Williams (then Wing Commander CAF) realised that in the wedge-tailed eagle Australia had one of the largest in the world and this was adopted by the RAAF. Roundel When aircraft first flew in battle they had no national markings, they were fired upon with equal impartiality by friend and foe from the ground. It became evident that some form of aircraft identification was required and towards the end of August 1914 instructions were issued to mark the under surfaces with a Union Jack. This made the identification of aircraft at low level easy, but at high level the colours of the flag were not clearly discernible and appeared to merge into the shape of a cross. This cross was frequently confused with the German cross and led to allied anti-aircraft gunners firing on friendly aircraft The French had adopted the idea of displaying their national colours in the form of concentric circles. This device was adopted by the RFC in October 1914 but the colours were reversed (the outer circle blue, the inner circle red) to avoid confusion with French aircraft. At the same time the Union Jack was retained in miniature form, painted between the roundel and the wing tip and on the rudder. In May 1915 the Union Jack on the rudder was replaced by red, white and blue strips and additional roundels were painted on each side of the fuselage This system was adopted by the Australian Flying Corps and subsequently by all air arms of the British Commonwealth. During World War II a thin yellow (outer) circle was added to the fuselage roundel whilst the upper wing roundel had the white circle removed In the Pacific and Burma Theatres RAAF and RAF aircraft displayed roundels without the red inner circle to avoid any confusion (mainly American) with the Japanese "Sun Disk". The RNZAF on the other hand adopted a light blue roundel, with the inner light blue circle, flanked by white bars and thus similar in shape to markings of US aircraft After World War II, the Commonwealth air forces returned to the pre-war roundels until 1950 s. By 1951, the South African Air Force had adopted an orange springbok in lieu of the red inner circle and the Royal Canadian Air Force shortly after adopted a red maple leaf as the centre-piece of the roundel. In 1956, the RAAF held a survey to determine the new centre of the RAAF roundel. The adoption of the red kangaroo in motion was accepted and became the centre of the new RAAF roundel and thus became the sole roundel displayed by the RAAF. Annex C shows the RAAF roundel. Royal Australian Air Force Ensign In 1918 the Air Council decided that the newly formed Royal Air Force should have its own ensign. The proposal did not meet with immediate acceptance, particularly from the Lords of the Admiralty whom had the right of veto over any new flag intended for use in British territories Negotiations and work on the design continued and after some difficulty, as the roundel was not strictly a heraldic device, the College of Arms agreed to the present design in His Majesty King George V gave his approval by signing an Order in Council on 24 March This ensign was adopted by the Royal Australian Air Force in 1922 without change. The only changes approved were on 24 January His Majesty King George VI approved the peculiarly Australian design by the addition of the white stars

63 of the National Flag and only recently Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II approved a change of the roundel on the Ensign whereby the RAF roundel was replaced with the RAAF roundel feature the kangaroo in motion. Squadron and Unit Badges The RAF adopted the Naval custom of unit badges rather than the Army custom that utilizes the wearing of unit badge on headdress and collars. The air forces of the British Commonwealth followed the RAF lead and apart from minor variations generally conformed to the pattern of unit badges by the RAF Badges usually allude to the background, location or function of the unit to which they are granted. For example, the badge of No.1 SQN features the Cross of Jerusalem, alluding to its service in Palestine during World War 1, whilst that of No.3 SQN features a grenade and fleur-de-lys, alluding its service as an army support squadron in France (also during World War 1) The badge of No.38 SQN is a badge depicting different styles of heraldic devices. The badge displays: a quiver of arrows, signifying the overall military purpose of the Squadron s role, coloured red (for warfare) embellished with baldric gold, in front of which is set the hybrid monster known to heraldry as the ENFIELD, with the Squadron motto EQUAL TO THE TASK " The Enfield has the head of a fox, the chest of a greyhound, the legs of an eagle and the hind part of a wolf, representing the cunning, speed, strength and determination with which the squadron pursues its objectives. The creature is in a passant position combined with a quiver of arrows which is intended to symbolise the forward movement or transportation of military equipment. Samples of Unit badges are shown at Annex E. Annexes: A. Badge of the Royal Australian Air Force B. Flying Badges of the Royal Australian Air Force C. RAAF Roundel D. RAAF Ensign E. Sample of Unit Badges

64 Badge of the Royal Australian Air Force ANNEX A

65 ANNEX B Flying Badges of the Royal Australian Air Force Cloth badge worn on working dress (flying suits CSW etc) Metal wings worn on shirts

66 ANNEX C Historic Roundels Europe and North Africa WWII Pacific and Burma 1944 Post WWII to onwards

67 RAAF Ensign ANNEX D

68 Sample of Unit Badges ANNEX E

69