10/10/2015: Air Task Group Armament Technicians build precision guidance munitions for Australian F/A-18A Hornets to conduct close air support operations in Iraq as part of the international coalition formed to disrupt and degrade the Da’esh threat.
Australia’s Air Task Group (ATG) as part of Operation OKRA comprises six RAAF F/A-18A Hornets, an E-7A Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft and a KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport aircraft. Nearly 400 personnel have deployed to the Middle East as part of, or in direct support of the ATG.
Operation OKRA is the Australian Defence Force’s contribution to the international effort to combat the Daesh terrorist threat in Iraq. Australia’s contribution is being closely coordinated with the Iraqi government, Gulf nations and a broad coalition of international partners.
According to interviews conducted in Australia in August 2015, the modified Aussie Hornets and their ROEs have seen the RAAF deliver JDAMs as fast or faster than any other Air Force to their intended targets.
Credit: Australian MoD:8/21/15