THE AIR FORCE

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVII, Issue 229, 27 August 1937, Page 6

THE AIR FORCE

DOMINION OVERHAUL. OUTLINE OF INTENTIONS.' Per Press Association. WELLINGTON, Aug. 26. Plans for tho reorganisation ol the Territorial Air Force with a view to placing it on a more satisfactory looting were announced to-night by the Minister of Defence (Hon. F. Jones). "The Territorial Air Force formed ill 1923 as a .part-time volunteer organisation comprises headqua-rters and lour squadrons allocated respectively to Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and. Otago,” said Mr Jones. “At present these squadrons consist of pilots only who in the past have undergone ten days’ annual training at Wigram without either ground staff or aiicra.ft, and with limited annual training much useful time would be required in an emergency before these squadrons could take an effective part in local defence. The Government has, therefore, decided to place the Territorial Air Force on a proper tooting and a start will be made this year with the Wellington squadron. "An order lias been placed for 12 Baffin aircraft for. delivery during the next few months. These aircraft designed as torpedo-bombers for use in tlie fleet air arm are now being replaced by 'later types and thus nave become available for other uses. Iheir performance although below that necessary for modern European conditions is adequate for reconnaissance and patrol work in tlie Cook Strait area which would l>e their task in New Zealand. It is proposed to start recruiting for headquarters and two flights on October 15, but no applications should be made until a notice setting out the requirements appears in the Press. . "The squadron will be provided with city headquarters, and premises in Sturdee Street have been rented for this purpose. Here evening and weekend instruction in aero engines, rigging, wireless telegraphy, . navigation and photography, etc., will be given whilst aircraft will be available at Rongotai to provide practical experience in maintenance a.nd afford opportunities tor flying training. “Squadron-Leader E. A. Gibson, aerodrome engineer of the Public Works Department, has been appointed, to command the squadron and will be assisted by Flight-Lieutenant H. B. Bun-ell as adjutant and by warrant a.nd non-commissioned officers from tho regular air force who will act as instructors.”