Jhendi originally posted this:
TOWNSVILLE-based 171 Avn Sqn Black Hawks recently migrated south to Holsworthy for the squadron’s first dedicated support activity to Special Operations Command (SOCOMD).
The helicopters and crew made the long flight to support a monthlong series of counter terrorist training exercises.
The helicopters enabled Special Forces’ soldiers to practice roping and rappelling from helicopters and inserting into restrictive areas by day and night.
The month-long exercise ended with full mission profile activities in a variety of testing scenarios.
CO 171 Avn Sqn, Lt-Col Stephen Clynk, said the exercise was one of the most important events for the squadron this year.
“This activity allowed us to work closely with all of the SOCOMD units we might support on operations,” Lt-Col Clynk said.
“The squadron has gained a great deal out of the exercise and we look forward to working closely with SOCOMD units well into the future.”
During the month-long exercise the choppers launched from RAAF Base Williamtown, Naval Air Station Nowra and the surrounding areas.
Lt-Col Clynk said the training was designed to cause the least amount of impact to local residents.
“We employed restricted flight paths and other techniques to reduce the effect of helicopter noise on the community, and overall we’ve received positive feedback from locals near the training,” Lt- Col Clynk said.
Working in consultation with local residents enabled realistic and demanding training at ADF facilities and in public areas.
Deputy Special Operations Commander – Australia Brig Tim McOwan said the exercise objectives were based on contemporary threats within the new security environment.
“The details of the exercise scenarios are closely guarded beforehand to ensure SOCOMD responds in a realistic manner,” Brig McOwan said.
“Realistic training allows us to identify opportunities to improve the national counter-terrorism capability to prevent, respond to and recover from threats of terrorism.”
The arrival of the six Black Hawks to some remote country towns did arouse public curiosity.
“Public safety, as always, was paramount so we liaised closely with the NSW Police officers and SES volunteers to designate safe vantage points for residents wishing to view aspects of the training,” Brig McOwan said.
Fast rope: Members of the Tactical Assault Group (East) fast-rope from Black Hawk helicopters into their training facilities at Holsworthy Barracks.
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