AIR DEFENCE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22818, 27 August 1937, Page 10

AIR DEFENCE

TERRITORIAL FORCE REORGANISATION PLAN COOK STRAIT PATROL TWELVE BAFFIN MACHINES [BY TKLEGKAPH —PIIESS 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. Jones. "The territorial air force, formed in 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.

"With their limited annual training much useful time would be required in an emergency before these squadrons 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. Fleet Air Arm Machines "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. Tbeir 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 and two flights on October 15," the Minister continued, "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. Provision for Training "Evening and week-end instruction in aero-engines, rigging, wireless telegraphy, navigation and photography, etc., will be given, while aircraft will bo available at Rongotai to provide practical experience in maintenance and to afford opportunities for flying training.

"Squadron-Leader E. A. Gibson, aerodrome engineer, of the Public Works Department, Las been appointed to command the squadron, and be will be assisted by Flight-Lieutenant H. B. Burrell as adjutant and by warrant and non-commissioned officers from the regular Air Force, who will act as instructors."

The Blackburn Baffin is a singleengined torpedo-bomber, fleet spotter or reconnaissance machine. It is fitted with a Bristol Pegasus engine, and is a product of Blackburn Aircraft, Limited, which specialises in torpedocarrying aircraft. I y; {Tr ==========