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The last RAAF aircraft to have engaged in combat in a conflict has been restored and is now on display at the RAAF Williamtown Heritage Centre (WLM AHC).

Restoration of the Meteor A77851 (aka Halestorm), in which Sergeant George Hale shot down a MiG-15 in the final air-to-air engagement of the Korean War, was overseen by Air Force’s History and Heritage branch.

WOFF Stan Lawler from the Directorate of Air Force Heritage said RAAF Williamtown is the right spot for Halestorm as it was an aircraft of 77SQN, which is based at Williamtown.

‘The ranks of Korean War veterans are getting thin, so it’s good to have Halestorm completed to honour them – especially since this year is the 70th anniversary of the Armistice of the Korean War,’ WOFF Lawler said.

On March 27, 1953, Sergeant George Hale from 77SQN flew Halestorm on a routine reconnaissance mission over North Korea. He engaged with, and shot down, an enemy MiG-15 fighter in the last air-to-air engagement of the Korean War.

Sergeant Hale returned to Australia after his period of duty.

Following the Korean War, Air Force converted Halestorm into a remotely piloted aircraft and used it to conduct aviation trials at Woomera in South Australia. Volunteers from the South Australian Aviation Museum later recovered and refurbished Halestorm’s cockpit/forward fuselage and put it on display. In early 2022, the museum gifted the cockpit/forward fuselage to the Air Force.

The restoration of Halestorm took about 18 months, which included merging the cockpit/forward fuselage to another Meteor to create the aircraft now showcased at WLM AHC.

‘We managed to get a lot of unique components, making the aircraft almost identical to the one that flew in Korea,’ WOFF Lawler said.

‘We were very lucky to find parts that had been in storage at the RAAF Museum at Point Cook. These included a long-range fuel tank to fit to the underbelly, three out of the four cannons and rocket rails that went underneath the wings.

‘The aircraft just bolts together like a Meccano kit.’

Wing Commander Linda New, the officer in charge of WLM AHC, was pleased to receive such an important heritage aircraft into the heritage centre’s collection.

‘Halestorm complements our display of artefacts commemorating 70 years since the cessation of hostilities in Korea, and honours the service and sacrifice of those RAAF members who served in Korea, particularly the members of 77SQN,’ she said.
Image: Meteor A77-851 (aka Halestorm) on display at the RAAF Williamtown Aviation Heritage Centre. Photo: GPCAPT Peter Norford

(Story by Flight Lieutenant Karyn Markwell and Flight Lieutenant Julia Ravell, courtesy of Air Force News.)

 

In mid-1945, the Japanese principal military headquarters in Saigon – HQ of the Southern Expeditionary Area Army Group was responsible for all Japanese military operations in South East Asia and the South-West Pacific. It was connected to Singapore and to Hong Kong by pre-War II undersea telegraph cables. Consequently, Allied signals intercept operations were unable to access a large amount of important Japanese signals traffic. At US initiative (Operation Sabre), a plan was developed for Royal Navy/Royal Australian Navy divers – from a midget-submarine, to cut these cables underwater. The plan was for a British midget submarine to drag grapnels and hook the cables in the shallow waters off Vũng Tàu – then divers would emerge from the midget submarine and cut the cables. Six modified British XE midget submarines were brought to Australia by a mother ship – HMS Bonaventure. During practice dives in Hervey Bay (Queensland), two British divers lost their lives in the “work-up” training exercises. Subsequently, the operation was launched from Brunei Bay (off Labuan) – as Task Group 71.11 of the US Seventh Fleet, from where the a British “mother” S-class submarine (HMS Spearhead, 217 feet) towed the XE-4 midget submarine into the South China Sea towards the coast of southern Vietnam. The XE-4 crew comprised Lieutenant Max Shean RANVR – commanding, Sub Lieutenant Bernard Kelly RNVR, Sub Lieutenant Adam Bergius RNVR, Sub Lieutenant Kenneth Briggs RANVR, and Engine Room Artificer Vernon Coles RN.

XE-4 was towed by the HMS Spearhead submarine to within 40 miles of the release point off the Cap St. Jacques (ie Vũng Tàu) Lighthouse; where XE-4 “slipped her tow”. In the early hours of 31 July 1945, Lieutenant Shean expertly navigated the XE-4 into the waters off Vũng Tàu – taking a bearing on Mount Baria – ie “Nui Baria” (ie: Núi Dinh/Núi Thị Vải noted on the attached map); and submerged to start the long trawl for the cable – the water was about 15 metres deep. “After several hours dragging, on the third attempt at about 1236 hours, XE-4 snagged the Singapore-to-Saigon cable. XE-4’s first diver – Sub Lieutenant Ken Briggs RANVR, exited the submarine and used a net/cable-cutter to cut it – bringing a 12- inch length back into the submarine, as proof of the cut. Dragging was re-commenced, and the Saigon-to- Hong Kong cable was found soon afterwards at about 1400 hours. “The second diver – Sub Lieutenant Adam Bergius RNVR, exited XE-4 – but his cable-cutter failed to work, so he re-entered the submarine and exchanged cutters, taking a brief rest as well, before re-exiting and finishing the job.” XE-4 then linked-up with the waiting submarine (HMS Spearhead), and three days later joined HMS Bonaventure in Labuan on 3 August 1945. Lieutenant Shean was awarded a bar to his DSO, and DSCs were awarded to the young divers Briggs and Bergius.

The first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima a few days later on 6 August 1945.

Reference: Shean, M., autobiography – Corvette and Submarine, Claremont WA, self[1]published, 1992, deceased 2009. Including inserted map “XE4 Off Saigon” at p.252

Introduction:

Australia stands at a crossroads in its pursuit of sustainable energy solutions to address the challenges of climate change and meet its growing energy demands. While the global community is moving towards renewable energy sources, it is crucial to recognize the potential of clean coal power as a transitional and complementary solution. This essay aims to advocate for the responsible utilization of clean coal technology in Australia, emphasizing its environmental benefits, economic viability, and role in ensuring a reliable energy supply.

Environmental Benefits:

Clean coal technology refers to advanced processes that minimize the environmental impact traditionally associated with coal-fired power plants. Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) and Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) are examples of innovative techniques that substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By capturing and storing carbon dioxide (CO2) before it is released into the atmosphere, these technologies mitigate the contribution of coal power to climate change. In Australia, where coal remains a significant part of the energy mix, embracing clean coal can be a pragmatic step towards achieving a balance between environmental responsibility and energy security.

Economic Viability:

Investing in clean coal technology not only aligns with environmental goals but also ensures economic viability for the coal industry. Australia possesses abundant coal reserves, and leveraging these resources through advanced technologies can create employment opportunities, stimulate local economies, and support the transition towards a more sustainable future. Additionally, continued innovation in clean coal can foster the development of exportable technologies, positioning Australia as a global leader in clean energy solutions and attracting international investments.

Energy Security and Reliability:

As Australia navigates its energy transition, maintaining a reliable power supply is paramount. Clean coal power, with its base-load capability, provides stability to the energy grid. Unlike some renewable sources that are intermittent, coal-fired plants can offer a constant and predictable power output. This reliability is crucial for ensuring energy security, especially during periods of high demand or when renewable sources are unable to meet the required output. By incorporating clean coal into the energy mix, Australia can build a robust and resilient energy infrastructure.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, advocating for the responsible use of clean coal power in Australia represents a pragmatic and transitional approach to address the nation’s energy challenges. By embracing advanced technologies that mitigate environmental impact, enhance economic viability, and ensure energy security, Australia can strike a balance between sustainability and the need for a stable power supply. As we celebrate the one-year anniversary of this essay, let us encourage a diversified energy portfolio that includes clean coal power as a stepping stone towards a greener and more sustainable future.

This essay was written by Rhonda Payne – 12 Dec 2022

G’day Frontline

I enjoy reading your posts each day but think it’s only right to let you know when something needs to be corrected.

Before retiring I was a first aid trainer and a representative on the Resuscitation Council of Australia, therefore:

In relation to your post today (Sunday 10^th November 2023) whenever sending first aid info etc., I suggest you consult the following website WWW.resus.org.au and go to guidelines.

These are the guidelines for Australia & NZ for first aid.

It is better to have one set of acronyms than differing acronyms which could become confusing.

The accepted acronym for Aust/NZ is for stroke recognition is … as follows.

FAST is a simple way for remembering the most common signs of stroke.

Facial weakness – ask the person to smile. Is their mouth droopy on one side?

Arm weakness – ask the person to raise both arms. Can they only raise one arm or is one arm weaker?

Speech difficulty – ask the person to repeat a phrase. Is their speech slurred and can they understand what you say?

Time to act fast (Take Action) – if any of these signs are present send for an ambulance immediately.

I have sent several emails to organisations who send information concerning recognising stroke etc., and also the cough CPR information, without knowing what the guidelines are, only to try and ensure that all info distributed in Australia is factual and meets recognised guidelines.

I hope this information is helpful.

Regards

Graeme Furmston

Lockheed Martin Media Release

Lockheed Martin has successfully conducted a series of live-fire tests, firing eight Spike NLOS all-up rounds (AURs) from the U.S. Apache Echo Model V6 at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona. The accomplishment, achieved over a five-day period, signifies a significant milestone in the development of the Spike NLOS Long Range Precision Munitions Directed Requirement (LRPM DR) system.

The positive outcome of the live-fire event has resulted in the clearance of the Spike NLOS LRPM DR system for Airworthiness Release (AWR) for integration onto the U.S. Apache platform. This achievement marks a crucial advancement, paving the way for the deployment of the system on the U.S. Army’s existing Apache V6 platforms.

Tom Bargnesi, the program management senior manager of the Precision Strike team at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, expressed confidence in the Spike NLOS system, stating, “This successful demonstration of Spike NLOS showcases that the system is ready to be integrated onto the Army’s current Apache fleet and provides a premier defence capability of choice when precision and accuracy matter. The AWR allows delivery of 21st-century security solutions to our Army customer for complex threat environments.”

The demonstration involved the firing of eight Spike NLOS AURs from an Apache platform at various targets, highlighting the system’s diverse mission capabilities across multiple scenarios. This demonstration represents a critical final step for the system to receive AWR clearance, enabling the Army to initiate the process of integrating Spike NLOS onto its Apache V6 platforms.

Looking ahead, Lockheed Martin is set to collaborate with the Army in mid-2024 to train pilots in the operation of the Spike NLOS system on the Apache V6 platforms. The Army anticipates the full integration of the Spike NLOS LRPM DR system onto all 18 Apache Echo Model V6 platforms by September 2024.

 

 

This was MAYBE written by a cricketer’s wife in fun – New Zealand’s greatest all-rounder, the late Martin Crowe’s wife, Lorraine Downes. Apparently, he had a great sense of humour and to be a wife of a cricketer, you must’ve an even bigger sense of humor and understanding. So here it goes….

NEVER TRUST A CRICKETER

Come all ye fair young maidens,

harken unto me,

Never trust a cricketer,

whoever he may be.

 

Randier than a sailor

who’s been six months at sea,

Never let a cricketer’s hand

an inch above your knee.

 

First let’s take the paceman,

pure speed from first to last,

My darlings do be careful;

his balls are hard and fast.

 

Then there’s the medium pacer,

his balls swing either way;

He’s really most persistent

and can keep it up all day!

 

Watch out for the off-spinner girls,

another awkward chap.

If you leave him half an opening

he will slip one through the gap!

 

Then there’s the wily ‘slowy’,

pure cunning is his strength;

He’ll tempt you,

then he’ll trap you with his very subtle length.

 

So ladies, do be careful,

your mothers would agree.

Never trust a cricketer,

whoever he may be.

 

And what about the opening bat,

his struggles never cease!

He has only one ambition,

to spend all day at the crease.

 

The number three is a dasher,

he seldom prods and pokes.

When he goes into action,

he has a fine array of strokes..

 

And do beware the slogger,

not content with one or two;

When he arrives at the crease

then only six will do.

 

Then there’s the real stonewaller.

Girls! he knows what he’s about;

And if you let him settle in,

it’s hard to get him out!

 

We come now to the last man,

I hope this will not shock,

He doesn’t mind if he’s last man in,

as long as he gets a knock.

 

So, darlings, do be careful,

and be well warned by me:

Never trust a cricketer,

whoever he may be.

 

And watch the wicketkeeper.

Girls! he’s full of flair and dash;

And if you raise your heel,

he’ll whip them off in a flash.

 

If you take the field with the capt’n,

you had better know the score;

Or he’ll have you in positions

that you never knew before!

 

The cricket commentator

is a nasty sort of bloke,

He watches all the action

and describes it stroke by stroke.

 

Even the kindly umpire,

who looks as friendly as a pup.

You’ll quickly find you’ve had it,

when he puts his finger up!

 

So, darlings, please remember

and repeat it after me:

“NEVER TRUST A CRICKETER, WHOEVER HE MAY BE!!!!!”

 

Ukrainian officials have given Forces News rare access inside a centre that is training hundreds of people to fly the cheap kamikaze drones that have been used to great effect against their Russian opponents. Drones have become a vital weapon of the war, supplementing regular artillery, and volunteers have set up drone schools across the country to teach soldiers and civilians how to fly them. Hundreds of men and women are being taught how to use small, cheap uncrewed aerial vehicles to seek and destroy Russian targets, wearing a headset that lets them see what the drone is seeing.

Blood Clots/Stroke – They Now Have a Fourth Indicator, the Tongue.

STROKE: Remember the 1st Three Letters….. S. T. R.

STROKE IDENTIFICATION:

During a BBQ, a woman stumbled and took a little fall – she assured everyone that she was fine (they offered to call paramedics) … she said she had just tripped over a brick because of her new shoes.

They got her cleaned up and got her a new plate of food. While she appeared a bit shaken up, Jane went about enjoying herself the rest of the evening.

Jane’s husband called later telling everyone that his wife had been taken to the hospital – (at 6:00 PM Jane passed away.) She had suffered a stroke at the BBQ.

Had they known how to identify the signs of a stroke, perhaps Jane would be with us today.

Some don’t die. They end up in a helpless, hopeless condition instead.

It only takes a minute to read this.

A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3 hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke…totally.

He said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting the patient medically cared for within 3 hours, which is tough.

RECOGNIZING A STROKE

Thank God for the sense to remember the ‘3’ steps, STR. Read and Learn! Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster.

The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:

S *Ask the individual to SMILE.

T *Ask the person to TALK

and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently)

(i.e. I like Chicken Soup)

R *Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.

If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call emergency number immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

New Sign of a Stroke ——– Stick out Your Tongue

NOTE: Another ‘sign’ of a stroke is this: Ask the person to ‘stick’ out his tongue.

If the tongue is ‘crooked’ if it goes to one side or the other that is also an indication of a stroke.

In 1968, amidst the backdrop of the Vietnam War, the No. 9 Squadron of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) introduced a groundbreaking modification to their UH-1B Iroquois helicopter, designated A2-1025 and affectionately known as “Ned Kelly.” This particular aircraft marked a significant milestone as it became the first RAAF helicopter to undergo a trial armament system enhancement, a crucial development in the ongoing conflict.

The innovative armament system integrated into the UH-1B included an XM 157 airborne rocket pod on each side of the helicopter. Each pod housed seven 2.75-inch Folding Fin Aircraft Rockets, providing the helicopter with a potent and versatile airborne firepower capability. Complementing the rocket pod were twin side-mounted M60 C machine guns, capable of unleashing a formidable barrage with a rate of fire reaching 6000 rounds per minute, utilizing 7.62mm ammunition.

Further enhancing the helicopter’s offensive capabilities were twin door-mounted M60 machine guns, strategically positioned to deliver a concentrated and suppressive stream of firepower. These door-mounted machine guns had the capacity to fire 400 rounds of ammunition, adding a dynamic and responsive element to the helicopter’s arsenal.

The introduction of this armament system represented a collaborative effort by a dedicated project team, whose members played integral roles in its development and implementation. Among them were notable individuals such as Sergeant Ernest E. Moore, Flight Lieutenant Robert C. Thompson, and Leading Aircraftman Edward G. Maxwell, the armament fitter kneeling in the helicopter doorway. Squadron Leader James H. Cox, serving as the pilot, stood beside the helicopter, embodying the skilled and courageous aviators who operated these modified gunship helicopters in the challenging and often hostile environment of the Vietnam War.

The “Ned Kelly” UH-1B Iroquois, with its advanced armament system and the skilled crew at its helm, symbolized the continuous innovation and adaptability displayed by military forces during the Vietnam War. This technological advancement contributed significantly to the evolving tactics and strategies employed in the conflict, showcasing the commitment of the RAAF to enhance the capabilities of their helicopters for the demanding conditions of aerial combat in Vietnam.

The first Block V Virginia-class submarine is expected to hit the waters no later than 2028. As tensions between Beijing and Washington continue to ramp up, the introduction of this super-sub variant will undoubtedly play a key role in the Navy’s strategic endeavours.

CLICK LINK

Virginia-Class Block V: The Best Submarine Ever? | The National Interest