MORE AIRCRAFT

Dominion, Volume 27, Issue 17, 14 October 1933, Page 6

MORE AIRCRAFT

Stronger Defences

MODERN WARSHIPS

Government’s Policy

“The Government has given consideration to die question of strengthening the defences of New Zealand, and has come to certain definite conclusions, but in the meantime proposes to concentrate on aerial defence,” said the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. G. IV. Forbes, in a statement issued yesterday. It was therefore proposed to increase the Ai> Force by two flights of aircraft in addition to two flights of coastal reconnaissance aircraft, to be manned by regular personnel. "By a progressive programme of replacement,” said -Mr. Forbes, “the present machines in use will be replaced by craft of a more modern and effective design. Anti-aircraft defence at vulnerable points will also be provided for and increased where necessity demands.

“Coastal defence has also not been lost sight of, and additional armament at existing coast defences will be provided for. “The Territorial Force has a responsible task to perform in the defence of the Dominion. The Government’s desire is to suitably recognise in a reasonable manner the response of those who are prepared to devote their time to this essential service. “Interchange of personnel with Australia will also be arranged, thereby developing the existing liaison between the two Dominions. “It is the Government's intention that no undue delay will occur in establishing this phase of the programme of defence, which naturally will result in au increase in the annual Defence vote. “Insofar as naval defence is concerned, the present cruisers will be replaced by more modern vessels in accordance with arrangements made with the Home authorities when the period for the exchange of vessels arrives. “The opinion of the authorities of the various arms of the service at Home as to how New Zealand could best utilise her resources to ensure her owu defence as well as to assist in the defence of the Empire has been obtained, and the Government’s proposals have been decided upon only .after the closest consultation with the United Kingdom.”

SIXTEEN NEW PLANES

Efficient Torpedo Bombers

It is understood that the Government proposes to import 16 new military aircraft—two flights of four torpedo bombers and two flights of coastal reconnaissance machines. The machines will be based at the present air stations at Wigram and at Hobsonville, but the types of machines selected have not yet been disclosed. An increase of the strength of the New Zealand Air Force will follow naturally upon the purchase of the new aircraft, but it is understood that the proposals pqj forward provide that enlistments should, be spread over a considerable period. The machines will not be brought to the Dominion as a fleet, but their introduction will take place gradually. The efficacy of the torpedo bombers was demonstrated at the naval manoeuvres in the Firth of Forth a fortnight ago, when the Warspite was hit by six aerial torpedoes, ami the Malaya by one, the Renown being the only capital ship to escape the torpedoes released by pilots who had dived from several thousands of feet to about 20 feet to release their missiles. The coastal reconnaissance machines will be used for bombing, scouting and photography, this being the function of the two Fairy lIIF’s at Hobsonville, which are used with either floats or undercarriages. These machines are the only service aircraft in the Dominion which are not. obsolete.