8 December 2022
Royal Australian Navy Commodore Flotillas, Commodore Paul O’Grady was launched into the sky aboard an F/A-18F Super Hornet to gain an in-depth understanding of RAAF maritime strike capability.
The unique opportunity was made possible during an integrated anti-surface warfare mission comprising two formations of F/A-18F Super Hornets, an EA-18G Growlers formation and a KC-30A Tanker with a notional P-8A Poseidon.
Officer Commanding 82 Wing Group Captain Paul Jarvis said the idea was to build on Commodore O’Grady’s recent visit to 81 Wing, 77 Squadron and the Air Warfare Centre Tactics and Training Directorate at RAAF Base Williamtown.
“This live mission allowed for present and emerging capabilities of 82 Wing aircraft and RAN destroyer – and their respective missiles and networks – to be discussed,” Group Captain Jarvis said.
Incoming Commander Air Combat Group Air Commodore Peter Robinson said he also flew in an EA-18G Growler to get a firsthand understanding of how the Growler contributes to the anti-surface warfare mission.
“It is really important that we continue to invest in strengthening the relationships between RAAF and RAN at the tactical execution and operational headquarters levels,” Air Commodore Robinson said.
The Headquarters Air Command Naval Air Liaison at Fleet Headquarters, HMAS Kuttabul coordinated this hands-on learning opportunity to reinforce the commitment of Headquarters Air Command and RAN to regularly engage as a joint force in domestic and international exercises.
Commodore O’Grady thanked the 82 Wing team for the experience and noted that it aided his understanding of air combat operations in the maritime environment.
“The mission flown today highlights how critical our air-maritime integration efforts are, and how we must regularly train together to ensure success as a Joint Force,” Commodore O’Grady said.
“It was a special highlight to also be part of the final flight for Commanding Officer 1 Squadron, Wing Commander Stewart Seeney, as Commanding Officer 1 Squadron.”
