Australian Army Aviation Corps

[rattle and hum]

Methinks there is a sort of blind doctrinal following of how the US Army thinks regarding integration of ARH for example into the Army so-called combined arms package.

Operating attack aviation assets as part of the combined arms team integrated into Land Manoeuvre is neither blind doctrine or espoused by US army aviation only. It is the common method used by the vast majority of Land Manoeuvre assets i.e. Brit army, US Marine Corps and Heer. The use of the term “so called combined arms package” is interesting.

BR71 clearly stated that he felt ARH should be transferred to the Navy. Presumably, since he has not addressed this query, he continues to support that stance.

Furthermore, he felt that because ARH may not be deployed, they were simply “being burned up…boring holes in the sky” in some sort of wasteful and extravagant way.

Flying advanced aircraft means specialising. Indeed, the flying side of the house is simpler than ever. On the other hand, ‘operating’ the aircraft has become more complex. Those who have flown complex aircraft in complex missions understand this irrespective of service or type. Most militaries now stream pre wings – for good reason including economics but also to deliver a trained product within a reasonable time frame. I think it is safe to assume the likelihood of cross streaming is becoming very remote given the specialist nature of the aircraft and battlefield.

That does not preclude the concept of a single, unified aviation combat force.

the Tiger…is arguably a less effective platform for intimate close air support and armed scout/reconnaissance capabilities than types previously operated in those roles that were easily enhanceable at modest cost. Sensors can be retro-fitted to many platforms to optimise role flexibility.

We will agree to disagree on this point which presumably is the crux of your discourse. I won’t be drawn on discussing the merits or otherwise of any platforms mentioned. I won’t be discussing tactical tasks or missions. I won’t be discussing sensors or weapons.