4 December 2024
Aviators from 23 Squadron Security Flight navigated through their final training iteration of the year during Exercise Leopard Dawn 24.
The exercise involved 21 Air Force security members cementing their skills in the two-day culminating activity, based at RAAF Base Amberley.
Engaging targets on a live range, demonstrating expeditionary ground combat skills and planning activities were just some of the components of the exercise, designed to test and ensure operational capability of the Security Flight.
Commander 23 Squadron Security Flight Squadron Leader John Kokkotos said he was proud to see the team develop as both a flight and individuals over the year.
“This is the final training activity planned for the Security Flight for 2024,” he said.
“It has been a big year – we have seen the Security Flight undertake numerous training outcomes in conjunction with a high-tempo exercise and operational period.
“This year’s training activities in conjunction with operational tasks allowed us to also gain an understanding of the capabilities of our partners and allies, building stronger relationships to better integrate our practices and procedures in the strategic environment.
“Our aviators have grown into a robust and agile Security Flight, and are postured to deliver effects across the security domain for 23 Squadron, RAAF Base Amberley and into the future.”
The exercise commenced with live-fire shooting practices, before moving onto challenges where members participated in a navigation component and traversed distances of 12km alongside the Security Flight’s military working dog capability.
The following day included a stores carry back to RAAF Base Amberley and the completion of an obstacle course designed by 23 Squadron’s physical training staff.
Section Lead and military working dog handler Corporal Jessica Carey said the exercise was a great opportunity to enhance both the skill level and fitness of the section.
“It was great to get out of the usual work routine and rehearse these concepts along with my section,” Corporal Carey said.
Achieving their desired end state of becoming an agile trained Security Flight, the team now look to plan for 2025 implementation.
