The answers to RNZAF dilemma
Sir - Having read the article on Royal New Zealand Air Force training "Forward thrust" (Flight International, 24-30 July, P27), I have to say that RNZAF training is going nowhere fast.
Your article reflects an appalling state of affairs. Air Vice-Marshal Carey Adamson attempts to present an optimistic face when describing what is, in fact, decay. "We are extremely flexible" must be the understatement of the year. A cheap solution would be a barter deal with the Honduras, whose Dassault Super Mysteres are reportedly in storage and could be swapped for wool, or other Kiwi produce of fame.
Another option, which would also please the New Zealand "greens", who oppose even third-hand French equipment, would be a long-term lease of hot-air balloons - something which the UK is producing in quantity and which would escape the wrath of those opposed to sales of military hardware to far-away countries.
There are ways, therefore, to please just about everyone.
MARC van ACKERE
London, UK
Source: Flight International
