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The RAAF has officially reformed its historic No. 9 Squadron with a new focus on MQ-4C Triton unmanned aircraft.
In a ceremony at Torrens Parade Ground, South Australia, the Air Force marked 100 years since the squadron’s birth in 1925 and celebrated the arrival of a restored Bell UH-1 Iroquois ‘Huey’ helicopter, as well as paying respect to its veterans from the Vietnam War.
“To the Vietnam veterans of 9 Squadron, welcome back. This squadron is yours, and today we honour your legacy,” said Commanding Officer 9 Squadron, Wing Commander Lawry Benier.
“From the moment 9 Squadron deployed to Vung Tau in 1966, its members set the standard for how an Air Force unit should operate in war. You showed what it means to serve with courage, mateship and quiet determination.
“As we reflect on that service, we remember those members of 9 Squadron who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Their names and their courage are etched into our history and into the hearts of all who follow in their footsteps.”
No. 9 Squadron was originally formed as a fleet cooperation unit working with seaplanes and served during World War II in the Mediterranean Sea, Indian and Pacific Oceans, receiving 12 battle honours before being disbanded in 1944.
It was reformed in 1962 with personnel deployed as helicopter squadron in active service during the Vietnam War, before being disbanded again in 1989.
Its third incarnation will see the squadron fly the Triton from RAAF Base Edinburgh and be known as No. 92 Wing Surveillance and Response Group.
At the ceremony, 9 Squadron, which by the end of its deployment in Vietnam had flown more than 237,000 missions, was also presented with the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Unit Citation.
Air Commander Australia Air Vice-Marshal Glen Braz said its reformation bridged “a century of service between the aviators of the past and those serving today”.
“The legacy of 9 Squadron has never faded and continues to inspire every aviator who serves under its banner today,” he said.
“With the arrival of the MQ-4C Triton, the squadron now delivers an unprecedented long-range, persistent and networked intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capability.
“To the veterans of 9 Squadron, we honour you and we thank you. Your actions will never be forgotten. 9 Squadron flies again, and with it, the spirit of those who came before soars once more.”
Defence in August confirmed initial tests were completed on the first Triton remotely piloted aircraft system, based at RAAF Base Tindal, and that the second and third aircraft arrived at the facility in May this year; it was also deployed during Exercise Talisman Sabre 25.
