Fed: Works committee approves HMASAlbatross redevelopment

AAP General News (Australia)
04-13-2000
Fed: Works committee approves HMASAlbatross redevelopment
PARLY 013

CANBERRA, April 13 AAP - A parliamentary committee today gave the go-ahead for the
$41 million stage two redevelopment of the HMAS Albatross navy air base outside Nowra,
NSW.

The committee said the base, opened in 1940, was the major facility for operation,
training and support of naval air units including Australian Seahawk and Sea Sprite helicopters
and New Zealand Skyhawk jets.

However, older facilities at the base are not adequate for the continuing high level of use.

The navy's main fleet practice areas is located directly out to sea while naval missile
and gun ranges are located nearby.

The committee said the latest upgrades followed the $69.3 million stage one development
approved in 1998. That gave the base new hangars and aircraft shelters, air traffic control
and explosive storage facilities.

Under the stage two development, Albatross will gain upgraded runway arrestor gear
better able to handle an emergency landing.

It will also gain a drive-though corrosion control facility. Any aircraft operating
at sea needs to be washed down shortly after landing to remove salt spray deposits which
can cause rust.

Currently this is done manually by personnel using detergent and water.

Defence estimates the new automated facility will save up to 1,0000 man hours a year.

The plan also includes a new flight deck procedures training simulators. Shaped like
the helicopter decks of the navy's FFG and Anzac frigates, the new simulators will allow
air and ground crew realistic landing practice without actually going to sea.

Flying helicopters over water carries some risk and navy aircrew and regular passengers
are required to undertake twice yearly courses in escaping from a ditched helicopter.

That's done by dropping a mockup helicopter cabin into a large tank. Current training
is performed at a commercial facility in Victoria.

Defence says that doesn't provide realistic training of military helicopter types,
nor the flexibility to run courses for small groups at short notice.

The Albatross redevelopment will include a full simulator which will also be used by
army personnel from the Sydney area.

Also included in the plan is improved security fencing, new hardstanding for visiting
aircraft and a new gymnasium for use by the base's 1,400 personnel.

AAP mb/mfh

KEYWORD: ALBATROSS

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