AERIAL DEFENCE.

Waikato Times, Volume 121, Issue 20283, 27 August 1937, Page 8

AERIAL DEFENCE.

REORGANISATION PLANS ORDER PLACED FOR AIRCRAFT PROVISION FOR TRAINING (By Telegraph.—Press Association.) WELLINGTON. Thursday Plans for the reorganisation of the territorial air force with a view to placing it on a more satisfactory footing were announced to-night by the Minister of Defence, the Hon. F. .Tones. “ The territorial air force, formed *n 1923 as a part-time volunteer organisation, comprises headquarters and four squadrons allocated respectively to Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin,” said Mr Jones. “At present these squadrons consist of pilots only, who in the past have undergone 10 days’ annual training at Wigram, without either ground staff or aircraft. On a Proper Footing “ With their limited annual training 1 much useful time would be required in an emergency before these squad- | rons could take effective part in local defence. The Government has therefore decided to place the territorial air force on a proper footing and a start will be made this year with the Wellington squadron. “ An order has been placed for 12 Baffin aircraft for delivery during the next few months. These aircraft, designed as torpedo-bombers for use in the Fleet Air Arm, are now being replaced by later types and thus have become available for other uses. Their performance, although below that necessary for modern European conditions, Is adequate for reconnaissance and patrol work in the Cook Strait area, which would be their task in New Zealand. “ It Is proposed to start recruiting for headquarters ar.l two flights on October 15,” the A.fnister continued, “ but no applications should be made until a notice setting out the requirements appeal's in the press. The squadron will be provided with city headquarters, and premises in 'sturdea Street have been rented for this purpose. “ Evening and week-end instruction in aero-engines, rigging, wireless telegraphy, navigation and photography, etc., will be given, while aircraft will be available at Rongotai to provide practical experience in maintenance and to afford opportunities for flying training. Commander Appointed “ Squadron-Leader E. A. Gibson, aerodrome engineer of the Public Works Department, has been appointed to command the squadron, and he will be assisted by Flight-Lieutenant 11. B. Burrell as adjutant and by warrant and non-commissioned officers from the regular Ail* Force, who will act as instructors.”