Post by Dave Homewood on May 24, 2007 22:02:14 GMT 12
Bombs away over Kaipara
17 May 2007
Kaipara Air Weapons Range north of Auckland has been booming to the sound of live bombing this week during Royal New Zealand Air Force bombing training.
Eighteen practice bombs and six MK 82 depth bombs have been dropped from Air Force P3-K Orion aircraft since last Tuesday to maintain the skills required to harness the Orion’s bombing capability.
Five Squadron Commanding Officer, Wing Commander Logan Cudby said the week of training aimed to ensure pilots and crews could accurately bomb a target if called upon.
“The New Zealand Air Force’s Orions can be armed with either depth bombs or torpedos. This bombing week practices the critical links between ground support personnel and air crews to ensure the weapons can be delivered accurately.
“The skills learned through bombing are also transferable to the torpedo, although specific torpedo training is conducted less frequently during exercises in Australia.”
The weapons dropped over Kaipara this week were classified as “dumb” bombs, relying on pilot skill and crew coordination for an accurate drop. Their accuracy limitations mean they are best suited for maritime operations.
In operations in places such as Afghanistan, other nations' Orion’s have been using “smart” precision guided bombs in support of Land Forces - as well as their more traditional maritime protection roles.
ENDS
www.nzdf.mil.nz/news/media-releases/20070520-baok.htm
For further information please contact James Heffield, Defence Public Relations, on 04 496 0286 or 021 676 338.
17 May 2007
Kaipara Air Weapons Range north of Auckland has been booming to the sound of live bombing this week during Royal New Zealand Air Force bombing training.
Eighteen practice bombs and six MK 82 depth bombs have been dropped from Air Force P3-K Orion aircraft since last Tuesday to maintain the skills required to harness the Orion’s bombing capability.
Five Squadron Commanding Officer, Wing Commander Logan Cudby said the week of training aimed to ensure pilots and crews could accurately bomb a target if called upon.
“The New Zealand Air Force’s Orions can be armed with either depth bombs or torpedos. This bombing week practices the critical links between ground support personnel and air crews to ensure the weapons can be delivered accurately.
“The skills learned through bombing are also transferable to the torpedo, although specific torpedo training is conducted less frequently during exercises in Australia.”
The weapons dropped over Kaipara this week were classified as “dumb” bombs, relying on pilot skill and crew coordination for an accurate drop. Their accuracy limitations mean they are best suited for maritime operations.
In operations in places such as Afghanistan, other nations' Orion’s have been using “smart” precision guided bombs in support of Land Forces - as well as their more traditional maritime protection roles.
ENDS
www.nzdf.mil.nz/news/media-releases/20070520-baok.htm
For further information please contact James Heffield, Defence Public Relations, on 04 496 0286 or 021 676 338.
