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Canadian military sends surveillance aircraft to Arctic to investigate mysterious pinging sounds David Pugliese Ottawa Citizen November 3, 2016 The Canadian Forces has sent a surveillance aircraft to the Arctic to investigate a pinging sound that appears to be coming from the ocean floor, but the military is no closer to solving the mystery of what could be making the noise. The government of Nunavut asked Ottawa to investigate the sounds, prompting the decision to send a CP-140 Aurora to conduct surveillance of Fury and Hecla Strait, northwest of the hamlet of Igloolik. Descriptions of the noises range from pings to beeps or a hum. They have been reported by hunters in the region, who worry they are driving away animals. Paul Quassa, a member of Nunavut’s legislative assembly, told lawmakers last month the sounds are coming from the sea floor. “The sound that has been heard in the area seems to be emitted from the seabed and underwater,” Quassa said in an October 25 statement. “Our constituents as well as hunters and boaters have reported that the area in question is almost devoid of sea mammals and that hunting has been poor in the area for quite some time.” According to Department of National Defence spokesman Dan Le Bouthillier, the Aurora’s crew “performed various multi-sensor searches in the area, including an acoustic search for 1.5 hours, without detecting any acoustic anomalies. The crew did not detect any surface or subsurface contacts.” The Aurora crew did observe two pods of whales and six walruses in the area of interest, Le Bouthillier added. Residents have speculated about various theories for the sounds, including that a mining company may be conducting sonar surveys or that environmentalists may be using some kind of device to scare away animals so they can’t be hunted. Nunavut’s government provided the Forces with information about the noises. “We appreciate the information provided by the government of Nunavut and will follow up with the premier’s office once the investigation has concluded,” Le Bouthillier said. Over the years, there have been various reports of sightings of mysterious objects in Canada’s Arctic waters. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, there were at least a dozen sightings of unusual objects moving along or just below the surface of the water, mostly around Baffin Island, according to Canadian Forces records. Inuit hunters and members of the Canadian Rangers reported what they believed were foreign submarines checking out Canada’s Arctic territories. Many of the sightings took place near Pond Inlet on Baffin Island. One sighting in particular was well-documented: an RCMP officer and several area residents saw an object just below the surface, producing a three-metre bow wave as it moved through the water. Several weeks later, a group of hunters saw the object again. The Canadian military conducted an investigation into the various sightings, but concluded strong currents or the wind could have caused the unusual waves reported by the officer and Inuit. At the time, the Canadian military said it could not find any evidence of foreign submarines operating in the area. Fury and Hecla Strait (Google Maps)

AP-3C Orion A9-658 Final Flight A crew from RAAF Base Edinburgh’s No 292 Squadron took AP-3C Orion A9-658 on her last flight on 21st October 2016 before it’s decommissioned from service. No 92 Wing’s fleet of Orions are gradually being phased out by 2018-2019, with the arrival of the first P-8A Poseidon in November 2016. Along with the MQ-4C Triton, an unmanned aircraft system, the two aircraft will eventually replace the existing Air Force maritime patrol capability. The first Orion AP-3B aircraft was introduced into the RAAF in 1968, later to be replaced with the upgraded AP-3C variant in 1978. Fitted with a variety of sensors, including digital multi-role radar, electronic support measures, electro-optics detectors, magnetic anomaly detectors, friend or foe identification systems, and acoustic detectors, the AP-3C has completed thousands of missions. In 2012, the AP-3C completed ten years of operational service in the Middle East, flying 2400 missions with more than 3500 personnel deployed during this period alone. The AP-3C Orion fleet is currently supporting Operations RESOLUTE, GATEWAY, and SOLANIA in support of Border Protection and Fisheries patrols within the South East Asia and Pacific regions. Due to the aircraft’s excellent surveillance capabilities, it is often called upon by civilian authorities for assistance with search and rescue missions, including the heavily-documented missing Malaysian airliner, MH370. (RAAF photos by CPL David Cotton, 28SQN AFID-EDN) ====================== 20161021raaf8540618_0100 Aircraft Fitter Aircraftman Anthony Harrod from No 10 Squadron gives a thumbs-up during engine start to the No 292 Squadron personnel who will be taking AP-3C Orion A9-658 on its final tactical training sortie from RAAF Base Edinburgh. A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20161021raaf8540618_0100.jpg --------------------------------------- 20161021raaf8540618_0111 Aircraft Fitter Aircraftman Anthony Harrod from No 10 Squadron gives a thumbs-up during engine start to the No 292 Squadron personnel who will be taking AP-3C Orion A9-658 on its final tactical training sortie from RAAF Base Edinburgh. A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20161021raaf8540618_0111.jpg --------------------------------------- 20161021raaf8540618_0123 RAAF AP-3C Orion A9-658 takes off from RAAF Base Edinburgh for its final tactical training flight, prior to being decommissioned from service. A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20161021raaf8540618_0123.jpg --------------------------------- Lockheed AP-3C Orion s/n A9-658 FMS BuNo 162658 c/n 5782 (First P-3 built in Palmdale.) ---------------------------------

Navy’s MQ-4C Triton community gets its very first squadron By: Mark D. Faram Navy Times November 2, 2016 The Navy’s first unmanned aviation unit formally became the Navy’s first UAV squadron during an October 28 “assumption of command” ceremony at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida. The unit officially formed in 2013 in Jacksonville and formally became a commissioned squadron as Cmdr. Benjamin Stinespring became the unit’s first commanding officer. The unit has no aircraft yet, but is slated to begin delivery of their MQ-4C Triton UAVs late in 2017 and begin flight operations. The squadron is currently scheduled for an inaugural deployment to 7th Fleet in 2018. “As the Navy’s first MQ-4C Triton squadron VUP-19 will operate and maintain the MQ-4C Triton to support overseas operations beginning in fiscal year 2018,” said Cmdr. Dave Hecht, spokesman for Naval Air Forces, Atlantic. “The squadron consists of 130 members that have been rotating through NAS Patuxent River, Maryland to train with test pilots.” In January 2017, a Triton mission systems trainer is scheduled to open at NAS Jacksonville across the street from the current P-8 simulation facility. This will give the officer and enlisted operators a jump start on mission training before their aircraft arrive. The squadron’s members are formed into crews, just as any other Navy patrol squadron, but the P-8A pilots, naval flight officers, and aviation warfare operators don’t fly, instead controlling the aircraft from a mission control system. The squadron’s mission and aircraft are designed to complement the Navy’s P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft, which are currently being phased into the fleet, replacing the P-3 Orion. With a 130-foot wingspan, the Triton aircraft is expected to have a maximum flight endurance of up to 28 hours, giving it the ability to cover up to 1 million square miles of ocean in a single patrol mission. Though the aircraft is usually flown from a ground control station like its Global Hawk sister, the hope is that eventually it could also be controlled from a P-8, but that capability has yet to be officially developed. VUP-19’s operators will be in on the ground floor of that effort, helping the Navy develop the operational techniques and procedures for operating the two together, USN sources tell Navy Times. That effort will use the lessons gained from another twin-aircraft effort, the teaming of the MH-60 helicopter and the MQ-8 Fire Scout while taking the capability into long-range, fixed-wing maritime patrols. VUP-19 was named after Patrol Squadron 19, which was in service from 1946 until 1991. It takes on the squadron’s name and nickname of “Big Red”. Its unit patch is also a nod to the former P-3 Orion squadron, but has been updated to reflect the unit’s new mission. ======================= I included VP-19’s patch for comparison. Here's its history: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VP-19 Not to be confused with Flight 19, of course: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flight_19

VIRIN: 030322-N-3658D-002 Central Command Area of Responsibility — (Mar. 22, 2003) — Aviation Ordnancemen assigned to the “Grey Knights” of VP-46 prepare to load AGM-65 Mavericks on a P-3C Orion. VP-46 is deployed conducting missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Operation Iraqi Freedom is the multi-national coalition effort to liberate the Iraqi people, eliminate Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction, and end the regime of Saddam Hussein. (U.S. Navy photo by Photographers Mate 1st Class Brad C. Dillon/Released) A much larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/photos/030322-N-3658D-002.jpg --------------------------------------- VIRIN: 030322-N-3658D-003 Central Command Area of Responsibility — (Mar. 22, 2003) — Aviation Ordnancemen assigned to the “Grey Knights” of VP-46 prepare to load AGM-65 Mavericks on a P-3C Orion. (U.S. Navy photo by Photographers Mate 1st Class Brad C. Dillon/Released) A much larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/photos/030322-N-3658D-003.jpg --------------------------------------- VIRIN: 030322-N-3658D-004 Central Command Area of Responsibility — (Mar. 22, 2003) — Aviation Ordnancemen assigned to the “Grey Knights” of VP-46 prepare to load AGM-65 Mavericks on a P-3C Orion. (U.S. Navy photo by Photographers Mate 1st Class Brad C. Dillon/Released) A much larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/photos/030322-N-3658D-004.jpg

The “Grey Knights” Participated in Valiant Shield 2016 Story Number: NNS161027-16 Release Date: 10/27/2016 1:22:00 PM By Petty Officer 3rd Class Alexander J. Cole Patrol Squadron 46 Public Affairs GUAM (NNS) — The “Grey Knights” of Patrol Squadron 46 participated in exercise Valiant Shield 2016 from September 12 to 23. VS16 is a 12-day biennial exercise focusing on integrated joint training among U.S. forces to produce proficiency in detecting, locating, tracking, and engaging units at sea, in the air, on land, and in cyberspace. “It's exciting to be in an all-U.S. exercise where we try things we normally don’t have the opportunity to try in other exercises,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Jordan Mayer, a VP-46 air crewman. The squadron’s aircraft is the P-3C Orion, a multi-mission-capable aircraft that specializes in anti-submarine warfare (ASW); intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR); and anti-surface warfare (ASUW). Having the ability to use the P-3C Orion in this exercise gave it and its crew valuable, high-tempo training in each of those mission areas, according to Lt. Cmdr. Mathew C. Moeser, officer-in-charge of VP-46’s detachment and a pilot. “We were able to conduct all of our mission sets while we were out at Valiant Shield and practice those skill sets, as well as display those skills for the rest of the joint community to see,” said Moeser. VS16 also gave the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force the opportunity to show other communities what MPRF brings to a real-world training scenario. “We helped develop and increase awareness for the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force,” said Moeser. “Everyone now understands what we bring to the fight.” According to Petty Officer 2nd Class Chad M. Zandi, a Sailor in VP-46’s Intelligence Department, the squadron not only displayed its skills to the other branches of the U.S. military, it showed its Sailors how they affect the battlespace when it comes to ISR. “Valiant Shield gave us another opportunity to show how important MPRF ISR is in a large-scale operation,” said Zandi. VS16 didn’t come without challenges, though. VP-46’s Maintenance Department kept the aircraft flying through the exercise, allowing the aircrew to meet every mission. The squadron had a chance to participate in a sinking exercise (SINKEX) which provided service members the opportunity to gain proficiency in ASUW — which involved tactics, targeting, and live-firing against surface targets at sea. Now that VS16 is complete, VP-46 will continue preparing for deployment during its inter-deployment readiness cycle at NAS Whidbey Island. For more news from Patrol Squadron 46, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/vp46/. ====================== VIRIN: 160914-N-EP641-014 GUAM — (Sept. 14, 2016) — A P-3C sits on the flightline of Andersen AFB during Exercise Valiant Shield. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexander Cole/Released) A larger, high-res version wasn’t available.

----- Forwarded Message ----- From: Richard <rkarbows@> To: John Lozon Sent: Monday, October 24, 2016 12:20 PM Subject: Fw: Canada Specials #9 & 10 Two CP-140s. One celebrates 75th Anniversary of 405 Pathfinders Squadron. Ric

20161015raaf8540618_0104 A Lockheed Neptune and an AP-3C Orion participate in a flypast during the T150 Townsville Defence Force Air Show. (RAAF photo by CPL David Cotton, 28SQN AFID-EDN) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20161015raaf8540618_0104.jpg --------------------------------------- 20161015raaf8540618_0108 A Lockheed Neptune and an AP-3C Orion participate in a flypast during the T150 Townsville Defence Force Air Show. (RAAF photo by CPL David Cotton, 28SQN AFID-EDN) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20161015raaf8540618_0108.jpg ------------------------------------- 20161013raaf8558864_160 A Lockheed SP-2H (P2V-7) Neptune operated by the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society taxies after arriving at RAAF Base Townsville in the lead-up to the T150 Defence Force Air Show and Open Day. (RAAF photo by CPL Oliver Carter, 28SQN AFID-RIC) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20161013raaf8558864_160.jpg ------------------------------------------------ Lockheed SP-2H (P2V-7) Neptune s/n A89-273 c/n 726-7273 VH-IOY

IMP Aerospace awarded Chilean Navy Orion III (P-3 modernization) contract HALIFAX, Oct. 17, 2016 /CNW/ — IMP Aerospace announced that it has been awarded a contract by the Chilean Navy (ACH) following an international competitive bidding process for the service life extension, depot maintenance, and avionics upgrade of their P-3 Orion Maritime Patrol Aircraft. The ACH P-3 Orion aircraft play a critical role in detecting submarine threats, search and rescue, littoral/overland surveillance, and economic zone and shipping lane protection. The ACH Orion III Program entails the embodiment of the Lockheed Martin P-3 Structural Mid-Life Upgrade modification on two ACH P-3A aircraft, as well as the design and installation of a state-of- the-art “glass cockpit”, installation of upgraded engines, and a Phased Depot Maintenance inspection package. The aircraft work will be completed within IMP's Halifax, Nova Scotia facilities and will be preceded by work on the avionics installation design, avionics kit procurement, and aircraft nacelle refurbishment. Tom Galley, IMP Aerospace Executive VP and COO, stated, “We are very pleased to be awarded this contract for the Chilean Navy to modernize their P-3 Orion fleet with advanced avionics and a full structural upgrade. IMP Aerospace has a well-established capability in performing extensive aircraft modifications of this nature and we are proud to support the Chilean Navy on this important upgrade to their strategic fleet of maritime patrol aircraft. This award further cements our reputation as a world-class provider of in-depth aircraft services of this type.” About IMP Aerospace IMP Aerospace, one of Canada’s largest Canadian-owned aerospace and defence contractors, provides a full range of technical services including aircraft In-Service Support, engineering, aircraft repair, overhaul, and modification services to domestic and international military and commercial customers. IMP Aerospace is one of six independent operating units of IMP Aerospace & Defence, which is a business unit of IMP Group, a Halifax-based company focused on global sustainable growth with over 4,400 experienced people delivering service, quality, and value to customers across diverse sectors, such as aerospace, aviation, healthcare, information technology, hospitality, and property development. SOURCE: IMP AEROSPACE

Valiant Shield sinking exercise concludes By Sgt. Jessica Quezada III Marine Expeditionary Force September 14, 2016 PACIFIC OCEAN, Guam — Live fire from ships and aircraft participating in the Valiant Shield 2016 exercise sank the decommissioned USS Rentz (FFG-46) about 3 p.m. Tuesday, September 13 in waters 30,000 feet deep, 220 nautical miles northeast of Guam. Units from the U.S. Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps participated in the sinking exercise, which provided them the opportunity to gain proficiency in tactics, targeting, and live firing against a surface target at sea. “This exercise provided an important opportunity for realistic at-sea training with live ordnance in a blue water environment,” said U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Brian S. Hurley, the U.S. Pacific Fleet Valiant Shield exercise lead. “This event refined our ability to work together seamlessly as a joint force to achieve a very specific training objective.” Former Navy vessels used in all SINKEXs are prepared in strict compliance with regulations prescribed and enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency under a general permit the Navy holds pursuant to the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act. Each SINKEX is required to sink the hulk in at least 6,000 feet and at least 50 nautical miles from land. Surveys are conducted to ensure that humans and marine mammals are not in an area where they could be harmed during the event. Prior to the vessel being transported for participation in a SINKEX, each vessel is put through a rigorous cleaning process, including the removal of all polychlorinated biphenyls, transformers, and large capacitors; all small capacitors to the greatest extent practical; trash; floatable materials; mercury or fluorocarbon-containing materials, and readily-detachable solid PCB items. Petroleum is also cleaned from tanks, piping, and reservoirs. A Navy civilian environmental, safety, and health manager and a quality assurance supervisor inspect the environmental remediation conducted in preparation of a vessel’s use in a SINKEX. Upon completion of the environmental remediation, the manager and supervisor provide signed certification of the work in accordance with EPA requirements. Additional aircraft was present during the SINKEX to ensure safety precautions were taken for other potential aircraft and boats within the range area. “Today, we were range clearing for the SINKEX, making sure no one was in the way and everyone involved stayed safe,” said U.S. Navy Lt. Carid Stovill, a patrol wing commander for VP-8. “We are here as a safety observer. Everything we talk about doing we are doing here and when we practice with multiple services together and practice communication...this is how it is going to be in real-world scenarios.” Rentz was the 40th ship of the Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigates and was named after Chaplain George Snavely Rentz, who gave his life during the Battle of Java Sea when the USS Houston (CA-30) was struck by a barrage of enemy torpedoes and sunk. The ship was home-ported at San Diego for nearly 30 years and conducted countless operations along the west coast of the United States with regular, extended deployments to the U.S. Seventh Fleet, U.S. Fifth Fleet, and U.S. Fourth Fleet areas of operation. In her nearly 30 years of service, Rentz performed superbly and is credited with assisting in the interdiction of 14,000 pounds of cocaine in 2003 during counter-narcotics operations, saving 90 Ecuadorian citizens from a distressed vessel in the eastern Pacific in 2005, and supporting multiple operations including Operation Earnest Will, Operation Enduring Freedom – Philippines, Operation Ultimatum, and the Global War on Terrorism. Rentz was decommissioned on May 9, 2014. Sponsored by U.S. Pacific Command, Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only, biennial field training exercise with a focus on integrated joint training among U.S. forces that increases participants' ability to plan, communicate, and conduct complex maritime operations. This training enables real-world proficiency in sustaining joint forces through detecting, locating, tracking, and engaging units at sea, in the air, on land, and in cyberspace in response to a range of mission areas. ======================= VIRIN: 160913-M-QA315-139 U.S. Navy sailors of VP-46 load a P-3C Orion with AGM-65F Maverick air-to-surface missiles prior to a SINKEX on September 13, 2016 at Andersen AFB during Valiant Shield 2016. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Justin Fisher/Released) A much larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://media.defense.gov/2016/Sep/14/2001633349/-1/-1/0/160913-M-QA315-139.JPG Lockheed P-3C-220-LO Orion; upgraded to P-3C CDU Nov 1997; upgraded to P-3C AIP Jan 2004 BuNo 161766 RC-766 c/n 285G-5781 -- VIRIN: 160913-M-QA315-135 U.S. Navy sailors of VP-46 load a P-3C Orion with AGM-65F Maverick air-to-surface missiles prior to a SINKEX on September 13, 2016 at Andersen AFB during Valiant Shield 2016. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Justin Fisher/Released) A much larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://media.defense.gov/2016/Sep/14/2001633348/-1/-1/0/160913-M-QA315-135.JPG --------------------------------------- VIRIN: 160914-N-EP641-014 GUAM — (Sept. 14, 2016) — A P-3C sits on the flightline of Andersen AFB during Exercise Valiant Shield 2016. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexander Cole/Released) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://www.navy.mil/management/photodb/photos/160914-N-EP641-014.JPG Lockheed P-3C-220-LO Orion; upgraded to P-3C CDU Nov 1997; upgraded to P-3C AIP Jan 2004 BuNo 161766 RC-766 c/n 285G-5781

----- Forwarded Message ----- From: Coronet To: Undisclosed-Recipient@ Sent: Friday, September 9, 2016 1:09 PM Subject: Greenwood Military Aviation Museum adds three new aircraft Greenwood Military Aviation Museum adds three new aircraft September 9, 2016 Greenwood Military Aviation Museum in Nova Scotia has added three retired aircraft from the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) to its collection. This brings the display in the museum’s outdoor air park to nine aircraft types flown by squadrons at 14 Wing Greenwood, the largest air base on Canada’s East Coast. The CC-130E Hercules was used by 413 Transport and Rescue Squadron for missions out of Greenwood, though the specific aircraft the museum acquired is originally from Canadian Forces Base Trenton, Ont. Malcolm Uhlman Photo Advertisement The collection also boasts two more aircraft housed within the museum and three more aircraft in the restoration phase. The museum recently acquired a Lockheed CC-130E Hercules, a CC-144 Challenger and a CP-140A Arcturus and installed them just outside the main gate at 14 Wing Greenwood. “I think if you look at the Challenger, there was only two given out to the museums across Canada and we were lucky enough to get the second one,” said Malcolm Uhlman, public relations director for the museum. “I think that tells us that we’re being recognized as a major museum across Canada.” 434 Combat Support Squadron at 14 Wing Greenwood flew the CC-144 Challenger and Canadair CT-133 (T-Bird) Silver Star in the electronic warfare role predominantly working with the Royal Canadian Navy. Malcolm Uhlman Photo Each of the aircraft played a significant role in the RCAF. The CC-130E Hercules was used by 413 Transport and Rescue Squadron for missions out of Greenwood, though the specific aircraft the museum acquired is originally from Canadian Forces Base Trenton, Ont. 434 Combat Support Squadron at 14 Wing Greenwood flew CC-144 Challengers in an electronic warfare role from 1995 to 2000, predominantly working with the Royal Canadian Navy. The specific Challenger the museum acquired is from 412 Transport Squadron in Ottawa, Ont., and was used for medevac missions out of Afghanistan and for VIP transport before it was retired in 2014. The CP-140A Arcturus was used primarily at 14 Wing Greenwood for Arctic and coastal surface patrol missions, for pilot training and as an instructional airframe. It was also retired in 2014. The CP-140A Arcturus was used primarily at 14 Wing Greenwood for Arctic and coastal surface patrol missions, pilot training and instructional airframe. Malcolm Uhlman Photo Organizers had to take the wings off the Hercules and the Arcturus to make them narrow enough to navigate a road leading to the air park from the operational side of the base. Both aircraft are now completely reassembled for public viewing. “There’s a lot of people around that are still here or not too long retired that have flown the Aurora or the Arcturus and the Hercules in particular,” said Maj Al Baillie, the museum’s point man for the acquisitions. “They’re absolutely tickled pink that these aircraft are here.” Ultimately, the aircraft are bringing history to life for those who visit. “It’s really the ultimate way to show the public what the military does,” said Uhlman. “When you can come and see and touch monster aircraft like that—you know, the Arcturus or the Herc.”

----- Forwarded Message ----- From: Coronet To: Undisclosed-Recipient@ Sent: Tuesday, September 6, 2016 6:05 PM Subject: PoAF P-3 special

----- Forwarded Message ----- From: Coronet To: Undisclosed-Recipient@ Sent: Friday, September 9, 2016 5:15 AM Subject: AP-3C at Tamworth today.

IS08-2016-0022-001 Flight engineers from 407 Long Range Patrol Squadron based at 19 Wing Comox, British Columbia walk to an RCAF CP-140 Aurora on July 7, 2016 before a flight at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii during RIMPAC 16. (PHOTO: Corporal Brett White-Finkle) Lockheed CP-140M Aurora s/n 140104 c/n 285B-5697

New Zealand starts airlift, maritime patrol renewal study 06 September, 2016 Peter Clark FlightGlobal Auckland — New Zealand’s Ministry of Defence has released requests for information covering the acquisition of future air mobility and air surveillance capabilities. The first request invites responses on potential fixed-wing aircraft solutions to replace the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s current air mobility assets, which include two Boeing 757-200 transports and five Lockheed Martin C-130H tactical airlifters. Outlining its future air mobility needs, the defence ministry says it seeks to replace the current assets with a “no less than equivalent” capability. Replacements for the air force’s Hercules are required from February 2020, with initial operational capability to be declared 12 months later and full operational capability to follow “no later than 2024”. Its 757s need to be replaced from February 2025, with IOC expected by February 2026. For its future air surveillance capability, the defence ministry is asking for information about platforms and services that could help the air force continue to deliver such services following the retirement of its six Lockheed Martin P-3K2 Orion maritime patrol aircraft around the middle of the next decade. The defence ministry’s operational concept “will be largely a continuation of the extant P-3K2 Orion-based concept, adapted to exploit any greater platform and capability systems performance of the FASC fleet and support systems”. New aircraft will be required to match the current type’s delivery of a combined 2,500 to 3,200 flight hours per year. The information requests were issued on 17 August, with responses for both due to be received by 30 September. Both seek to explore potential commonality between the air mobility and air surveillance solutions.

20160901adf8517500_013 An RAAF AP-3C Orion lands at RAAF Base Curtin, Western Australia during Exercise Northern Shield 2016. (ADF photo by CPL Kyle Genner, 1st Joint Public Affairs Unit) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20160901adf8517500_013.jpg Lockheed AP-3C Orion s/n A9-658 ------------------------------------- 20160901adf8517500_019 An AP-3C Orion lands at RAAF Base Curtin during Exercise Northern Shield 2016. (ADF photo by CPL Kyle Genner, 1st Joint Public Affairs Unit) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20160901adf8517500_019.jpg ------------------------------------ 20160901adf8540638_002 A No 36 Squadron C-17A Globemaster III takes off from RAAF Base Curtin as an AP-3C Orion starts its engines during Exercise Northern Shield 2016. (ADF photo by CPL David Said, 1st Joint Public Affairs Unit) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20160901adf8540638_002.jpg Lockheed AP-3C Orion s/n A9-656

152760 LH-3 P-3B Orion VP-93 landing at NAS Dallas May 1994

151354 LH-7 P-3A-35-LO Orion VP-93 Executioners over NAF Detroit, Selfridge ANGB. Michigan date unknown to AMARG June 13 1992 to Chilian navy as 405 May 16 1994

20141001raaf8165233_0042 A formation of RAAF AP-3C Orions flies over the northern training area near Adelaide, South Australia. (RAAF photo by CPL David Gibbs, 28SQN AFID-EDN) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20141001raaf8165233_0042.jpg --------------------------------------- 20141001raaf8165233_0057 A formation of RAAF AP-3C Orions flies over the northern training area near Adelaide, South Australia. (RAAF photo by CPL David Gibbs, 28SQN AFID-EDN) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20141001raaf8165233_0057.jpg --------------------------------------- 20141001raaf8165233_0183 A formation of RAAF AP-3C Orions flies over Adelaide’s northern suburbs. (RAAF photo by CPL David Gibbs, 28SQN AFID-EDN) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20141001raaf8165233_0183.jpg --------------------------------------- 20141001raaf8165233_0279 A formation of RAAF AP-3C Orions flies over the Fleuireu Peninsula, South Australia. (RAAF photo by CPL David Gibbs, 28SQN AFID-EDN) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20141001raaf8165233_0279.jpg --------------------------------------- 20141001raaf8165233_0348 A formation of RAAF AP-3C Orions flies off Adelaide’s southern beaches. (RAAF photo by CPL David Gibbs, 28SQN AFID-EDN) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20141001raaf8165233_0348.jpg ---------------------------------------------

20140428raaf8194170_0004 A JMSDF P-3C Orion sits on the tarmac at RAAF Pearce. (RAAF photo by CPL Colin Dadd, 28SQN AFID-EDN) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20140428raaf8194170_0004.jpg Lockheed/Kawasaki P-3C-II.5 Orion s/n 5031 c/n 9028 -------------------------------------- 20140428raaf8227810_0002 A JMSDF P-3C Orion prepares to leave RAAF Base Pearce, Western Australia for possibly the final Japanese air search mission for MH370. (RAAF photo by CPL Nicci Freeman, 28SQN AFID - Edinburgh) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20140428raaf8227810_0002.jpg Lockheed/Kawasaki P-3C-II.5 Orion s/n 5031 c/n 9028 --------------------------------------- 20140430raaf8227810_0003 A JMSDF P-3C Orion departs RAAF Base Pearce on its journey home following completion of the air search component of OP SOUTHERN INDIAN OCEAN. With the transition of the search for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 from a visual and acoustic search to an underwater search, personnel and aircraft of the multinational air component have started to return home. (RAAF photo by CPL Nicci Freeman, 28SQN AFID - Edinburgh) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20140430raaf8227810_0003.jpg Lockheed/Kawasaki P-3C-II.5 Orion s/n 5031 c/n 9028 ------------------------------------- 20140331raaf8165233_091 A Gulfstream V from the Japanese Coast Guard and two P-3C Orions from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force sit on the tarmac at RAAF Base Pearce prior to conducting missions in the search for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370. (RAAF photo by CPL David Gibbs, 28SQN AFID-EDN) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20140331raaf8165233_091.jpg Lockheed/Kawasaki P-3C-II.5 Orion s/n 5060 c/n 9057 Lockheed/Kawasaki P-3C-II.5 Orion s/n 5056 c/n 9053 Gulfstream Aerospace G.V JA500A c/n 683 -----------------------------------------------

Note: No 292 Squadron is the RAAF’s OCU for the Orion. Nos 10 and 11 Squadrons are the operational units. -------------------------------------- 20140512raaf8227810_0001 An AP-3C Orion off the South Australian coast line. On 12 and15 May 2014, No 292 Squadron conducted Air Sea Rescue Kit training off the South Australian coast. ASRKs are used to provide survivors in the water with two liferafts and supplies for several days. No 292 Squadron conducted this essential training with the assistance of the South Australia Police Water Operations Unit. (RAAF photo by CPL Nicci Freeman, 28SQN AFID - Edinburgh) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20140512raaf8227810_0001.jpg -------------------------------------- 20140512raaf8227810_0002 An AP-3C Orion off the South Australian coast line. On 12 and15 May 2014, No 292 Squadron conducted ASRK training off the South Australian coast. ASRKs are used to provide survivors in the water with two liferafts and supplies for several days. No 292 Squadron conducted this essential training with the assistance of the South Australia Police Water Operations Unit. (RAAF photo by CPL Nicci Freeman, 28SQN AFID - Edinburgh) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20140512raaf8227810_0002.jpg -------------------------------------- 20140515raaf8227810_0105 An AP-3C Orion prepares to drop a helibox. On 12 and15 May 2014, No 292 Squadron conducted ASRK training off the South Australian coast. ASRKs are used to provide survivors in the water with two liferafts and supplies for several days. No 292 Squadron conducted this essential training with the assistance of the South Australia Police Water Operations Unit. (RAAF photo by CPL Nicci Freeman, 28SQN AFID - Edinburgh) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20140515raaf8227810_0105.jpg --------------------------------------- 20140515raaf8227810_0056 ASRKs drop from an AP-3C Orion. On 12 and15 May 2014, No 292 Squadron conducted ASRK training off the South Australian coast. ASRKs are used to provide survivors in the water with two liferafts and supplies for several days. No 292 Squadron conducted this essential training with the assistance of the South Australia Police Water Operations Unit. (RAAF photo by CPL Nicci Freeman, 28SQN AFID - Edinburgh) A larger, high-res version can be viewed or downloaded here: http://images.defence.gov.au/20140515raaf8227810_0056.jpg ----------------------------------------------------- A 38-second video is here: http://video.defence.gov.au/play/3118 -----------------------------------------------------