Australian Navy’s Aircrew Supports Diving Activities

In late May, a crew of Australian Navy’s aircrew and maintainers conducted navigation training and support to Reserve Clearance Diving Team Ten activities in the ‘Apple Isle’.

The MRH 90 helicopters from 808 Squadron in Nowra, New South Wales, engaged in a self-sufficient deployment to Tasmania recently.

The training involved diver drops and wet hoisting in the shadow of the Tasman Bridge abeam the site of the old HMAS Huon, was well received. It allowed the team and detachment to practice core skills that are required for diving team inserts and recovery.

Detachment Commander, Lieutenant Commander Jeremy French, on exchange from the Royal Navy, said it was an excellent training mission for both those in the helicopter and those dropping from it.

Launching from Nowra, carrying the entire detachment to Hobart took four hours with a refuel at East Sale. The aircrew took the opportunity to fly over the eastern coastline, Huon Valley and surrounding areas conducting out of area navigation training, and also gave the divers a familiarisation flight.

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Image: Australian Navy