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The former director of the Combined Air Operations Centre in the Middle East has been appointed to lead the unit.
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The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has appointed Air Commodore Nathan Christie as the new commander of the Surveillance and Response Group.
Air Commodore Christie replaces Air Commodore Nick Osborne who handed over responsibilities during a ceremony in the No. 2 Squadron precinct of RAAF Base Williamtown.
The new commander recently returned from deployment in the Middle East where he served as the director of Combined Air Operations Centre.
“Surveillance and Response Group is a highly regarded team that has proven it can deliver capability to the combined and joint force,” Air Commodore Christie said.
“The next few years will be challenging as we manage ageing equipment and introduce new systems and capabilities, yet I know as a team we are up to the challenge.”
AIRCDRE Christie said he looked forward to leading the team as it works to improve efficiency in the delivery of air power.
“I’d like to thank Air Commodore Osborne for his contribution to Surveillance and Response Group,” he said.
“His calm, focused leadership has been instrumental in Surveillance and Response Group’s successes during his tenure, and I wish him all the best in his new role as Director General Preparedness at Headquarters Air Command.”
Outgoing commander AIRCDRE Osborne thanked members of the Surveillance and Response Group for their work over the course of his tenure, particularly amid COVID-induced obstacles.
“Throughout the pandemic, Surveillance and Response Group has continued to conduct operations in support of Australia’s national interest and we have done this through teamwork, resilience and excellent leadership from all aviators, regardless of rank or mustering,” AIRCDRE Osborne said.
“Whether we lead by formal instrument of command or by actively demonstrating the values and behaviours of the ADF, our leadership has enabled Surveillance and Response Group to maintain effectiveness as Four Wings, One Team.”
AIRCDRE Osborne served for 20 years as a Royal New Zealand Air Force pilot before joining the RAAF in 2002.
The Surveillance and Response Group Force Element Group was formed in 2004 and consists of four wings.
The unit is based at RAAF Base Williamtown along with No. 41 and 42 Wing. No. 44 and 92 Wing are at RAAF Base Edinburgh.
[Related: RAAF Base Amberly welcomes Japanese aircraft]
