Air Vice-Marshal John Hamilton, Chief of Air Force
“An Air Force Orion and its support crew will leave Whenuapai on 11 May to contribute to the multinational Operation
Enduring Freedom by undertaking Maritime Interdiction Operations in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. The aircrew
and maintenance staff have been preparing themselves and the aircraft since the Government announced its intention to
deploy in November last year. I am confident that the the Air Force team will provide a valuable and internationally
recognised contribution in the effort to prevent terrorism. The support staff will depart in two groups by Air Force
C-130 Hercules on May 8 and 10 respectively.
This operation demonstrates the Air Force’s ability to operate with multinational forces and to play an appropriate role
in New Zealand’s commitment to worldwide security.
Our people are the best, they have been well trained, have equipment suited to the task, and will perform to the highest
standards.”