A Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) P-8A Poseidon from No. 5 Squadron recently returned to its spiritual home in Suva, Fiji, in a visit that proved to be equal measures nostalgic and with an eye to the future.
Flight Lieutenant Stuart Glendinning was in charge of the crew of 21 that made the flight to Fiji.
“Fiji is our spiritual home as it’s where we began, it’s where our roots are. RNZAF No. 5 Squadron was formed in Fiji in 1941 to provide a long-range maritime patrol force to the region during WWII,” he said.
Since then, No. 5 Squadron has conducted maritime patrols, participated in search and rescue missions, and any other tasks as requested by governments in New Zealand and the Pacific, over the vast South Pacific Ocean.
“While in Fiji we visited Laucala Bay where No. 5 Squadron relocated to after the war and where we remained until 1966 when the majority of the squadron was moved to Whenuapai,” Flight Lieutenant Glendinning said.
The landing at Nausori International Airport was a first for the P-8A which has always landed at the longer Nadi International Airport.
“Being a heavier aircraft than the P-3K2 Orion, operating the P-8A requires a longer runway; however, the landing went according to plan, and we are confident we can operate from Nausori International Airport if needed,” said Flight Lieutenant Glendinning.
The squadron is still revered in Fiji for the help it provided to civilian communities.
“While in Fiji we met with local agencies including the Fiji Maritime Surveillance Rescue Coordination Centre (MSRCC), the Fijian Nation Disaster Management Office (NDMO), the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), the New Zealand High Commissioner and staff, as well as deployed NZDF personnel.”
“These meetings were invaluable to growing and improving our relationships with our Fijian partners. We work closely with these agencies for many of our operations. Improving our shared understanding and co-operation ensures the best employment of the P-8A and the best results for both nations,” said FLTLT Glendinning.
The crew also visited the Commonwealth War Graves cemetery, where several RNZAF personnel are buried.
“It was a sombre yet inspiring experience to visit the place where our predecessors rest, it is a privilege to continue to contribute to their legacy 84 years later,” Flight Lieutenant Glendinning said.
