11 Squadron's Outstanding Middle East Achievements

11 Squadron's Outstanding Achievements In The Middle East

Adelaide's No 11 Squadron was today recognised for successfully completing one of the longest continuous periods of operational service in the unit's history.

Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Geoff Shepherd, said the Squadron's extraordinary four and a half years of continuous active service in the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) was an outstanding achievement and a reflection of 11 SQN's professionalism.

11 SQN members were an integral part of the AP-3C Orion Task Group from January 2003 to July 2007. During this time, 11 SQN committed up to 70 personnel at any one time to support Operations Falconer, Catalyst and Slipper.

Throughout its time in the Middle East, 11 Squadron conducted a variety of surveillance operations over Iraq, the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea, supporting both Australian and Coalition Forces.

The AP-3C Orion has two important roles in the MEAO: its traditional maritime surveillance tasks and overland operations in Iraq.

Overland missions can range from escorting friendly road convoys to searching for militants launching mortars and rockets. Crews provide direct support to coalition ground forces by using the Electro Optics sensor to search for suspicious activity.

"I'm extremely proud of what the RAAF Orion crews generally, and 11 SQN in particular, have achieved. Our AP-3Cs have been making highly valued contributions to coalition operations since 2003, and this continues today," AIRMSHL Shepherd said.

"The sensitive nature of most of the Orion missions means our crews are not always given the public recognition they deserve. Today's ceremony is about 11 SQN getting due praise."

During the long deployment period, 11 Squadron has also maintained operational and training commitments in Australia.

"The deployments were a difficult period for the families of the 11 SQN personnel. We recognise and are thankful for the support which our people receive from their families and friends when they are working hard so far from home," AIRMSHL Shepherd said.

The deployment of RAAF Orions to the Middle East continues today with 10 Squadron.

To date in the MEAO, the AP-3C detachment consisting of Number 10 and 11 Squadron aircraft has flown more than 1000 missions, equating to more than 10,500 flying hours.

ENDS

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