RAAF EA-18G Growler training reaches milestone
Five aircrew personnel from the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) graduated basic training at the US Navy's EA-18G Growler Fleet Replacement Squadron at a ceremony held on 27 February.
This marks the first time RAAF aircrew have completed basic training in the EA-18G.
The graduates will be assigned to naval expeditionary units for approximately two years, deploying and operating the EA-18G under the Personnel Exchange Programme. The Electronic Attack Wing, US Pacific fleet, at NAS Whidbey Island, provides direct training support to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129.
Capt. Darryl Walker, commander, Electronic Attack Wing, said: 'The graduation of the first crews marks a key milestone for our partnership.'
Australia is purchasing 12 Boeing-made EA-18Gs as part of a US Foreign Military Sales programme. It is the first international customer for the Growler, with deliveries expected to begin in 2017. Training and integration of the RAAF aircrew is a critical component of programme.
RAAF Wg. Cdr. Paul Jarvis, acting director, EA-18G Growler Transition, said: 'Training with Electronic Attack Wing, US Pacific fleet is essential to our ability to establish a credible airborne electronic attack capability.'
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