CT7
Anecdotally, I was aware NZ SAS hastily borrowed equipment in Afganistan when they arrived. The rumour they performed logistical tasks for German soldiers ( digging latrines ) until they had suitable equipment probably a Furphy. However, can I ask, didn't they borrrow desert patrol vehicles etc of the Americans?
Granted, even socialist Helen has realised, what a superb capability your SAS is, with little relative expense, consequent funding and upgrading has been in place.
Must be the first time a NZ unit has been tier one. Perhaps, it's the independance of operation and nature of their tasks that our SAS is tier 2 in Afganistan. In another thearte, where they had a task and responsibility of keeping Israel out of the war, I find it hard to imagine their resource access not primary.
Nosegear
Promises, promises! What are you going to send in with your generous offer to assist Australia? Despite being isolationist, don't you see a regional skirmish in Asia, a responsibility of New Zealands and not just lending assistance to someone giving Oz the slipper so to speak? Shall we protect your trade routes?
Obviously the minor contingency of piracy in the Malacca a concern, you've offered an Orion, but a more serious skirmish in the region that would close those straits, you could do little in the way of participation.
The RAAF and about 500 other jets are home right now, the battle requires token airpower now but as mentioned, and as discussed in governemnt circles, the RAAF could take on a role in Afganistan.
MOR
We have been waiting with bated breath for your return! After slagging off the former capability of the RNZAF, and rebuking a simple analogy to the relevance of airpower in today's war fighting scenarios, you were going to offer rebuttle quoting Harrier Mate that the RNZAF Skyhawks irrelevant because a Harrier can hover and deliver it's bombs more accurately.
Your silence appreciated!
Dave Martin
Well Dave, you are the first I've come accross who admits the folly.
It's a good, each way bet though, by your socialist government, to secretly commit your troops to a very active combat role in Afganistan, but quietly come accross as Doves.
Hopefully, AQ hasn't noticed and any threat to the security of your trade routes, interests etc, that your defence force unable to meet, can be covered by the US.
Smart and creative bludging.
Last edited by Gnadenburg; 12th Oct 2005 at 08:08.