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DRP/037/DAW
APPRAISAL OF NIGERIAN AIR FORCE COMBAT
SEARCH AND RESCUE CAPABILITY
INTRODUCTION
1.
Disasters fall into one of 2 major categories. They can either be
man-made or natural.1
Man-made disasters such as fire and aircraft
accidents are those that result from the actions of man.
On the other
hand, natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes result from acts of
God. Man neither has the power to avert nor control, but only mitigate
effects of such natural phenomenon. Disasters can occur in the air, on
land or sea resulting in life-threatening situations. The effects of these
disasters need to be mitigated.
Furthermore, where there are survivors,
they need to be found and rescued.
2.
The search for and provision of aid to people who are in distress or
imminent danger is described as Search and Rescue (SAR).2 Generally, a
SAR operation is determined by the type of terrain the search is conducted.
These include mountain SAR, ground SAR, urban SAR in cities, air-sea
SAR over water and Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) on the battlefield,
within or near combat zones. CSAR operations are traditionally centred on
1.
2.
Natural and Man Made Disasters, www.disasterium.com accessed on 8 Nov 14.
National SAR Manual, Canadian Forces, B-GA-209-001/FP-001 DFO 5449, (May 98).
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the location and rescue of downed military aircrew from combat zones
under high threat of enemy action.3
3.
The history of SAR dates as far back as 1656, when 3 SAR missions
were conducted to rescue the Dutch Merchant Ship Vergulde Draeck off
the west coast of Australia.4 In recent time, on 8 Mar 14, Malaysia Airlines
Flight 370 crashed in mysterious circumstances. Many nations contributed
to the initial SAR effort, which has not yet yielded results.
On 28 Dec 14,
Airasia Flight QZ8501 carrying 162 people crashed into the sea, while
en route Singapore from Indonesia.
An international SAR effort was
launched and had recovered about 50 bodies and the aircraft fuselage
after 17 days of searching.
In the military, particularly in combat
operations, SAR is very critical.
The rescue of the F-117 aircraft pilot
brought down behind enemy lines during the Kosovo crisis in 1999 boosted
the morale of the forces. This also prevented the enemy from gaining easy
information from a potential Prisoner of War (POW).5
4.
In Nigeria, there have also been SAR operations involving the
military. On 26 Sep 92, the NAF C-130 Hercules transport aircraft,
NAF 911, crashed into the swamps of Ejigbo, a suburb of Lagos.
Within
one hour of the crash, the location was known, but early rescue operations
could not be conducted; and all the passengers and crew on board died.6
Although the crash occurred at a suburb of Lagos that has many armed
3
4
5
6
NAF Basic Air Power Doctrine, Officers Promotion Examination Manual.
Search and Rescue, www.wikipedia.com accessed 29 Sep14.
Combat Search and Rescue, United States Air Force Doctrine Document 2-16.
Nowa Omoigu, http://www.dawodu.com/omoigui18.htm, accessed 16 Oct 14.
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forces units, the nation in general and the NAF, in particular, could not
mount an effective rescue operation.
5.
In June 14, a NAF Mi-35p helicopter in a 2-ship formation assault
mission in the North East (NE) of Nigeria developed a mechanical fault and
crashed.
The crash site was identified and reported back to base by the
second helicopter.
However, despite that the operations unit launched a
search with the ATR 42 MPA, the surviving pilot could not be rescued for
over 6 hours. The pilot later found his way to a nearby village, where he
was later recovered by NA troops.7 Recently, on 12 Sep 14, a NAF Alpha
Jet aircraft assigned to undertake a mission in the NE of Nigeria was
reported missing.8
There is not yet any official report on the whereabouts
of the crew and the aircraft, despite NAF rescue efforts.
6.
The NAF has the responsibility to undertake a successful CSAR
operation to find its crew and aircraft during such mishaps. This is required
to maintain the morale and motivation of personnel, particularly in combat
operations.
The unsuccessful recovery of the crew and Alpha Jet aircraft
for over one month shows inadequacies in the ability of the NAF to conduct
an effective CSAR operation.
A well-equipped, coordinated and effective
NAF SAR operation could have been able to manage the rescue operation
of the C-130 crash in 1992, as well as the currently missing Alpha Jet crew.
It is against this background that the need arises to evaluate the capability
of NAF to perform successful CSAR operations.
7
Flt Lt A Halilu, survivor of crashed Mi-35p helicopter, phone interview by author,19 Jan 15.
Business Day Newspaper, http://businessdayonline.com/2014/09/defence-headquarters-confirms-alpha-jet-naf466-missing-in-adamawa, (accessed 18 Oct 14).
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7.
The purpose of this paper is to assess the capability of the NAF to
conduct effective CSAR operations. This paper will be limited to NAF
capability to conduct CSAR operations based on the current NAF
Establishment. It is assumed that the measures proposed in this paper, if
implemented would enhance NAF operational effectiveness. The paper will
give an overview of NAF CSAR capability, and highlight the challenges of
the NAF towards providing effective CSAR.
Then, way forward will be
suggested, before proposing the implementation strategies.
AIM
8.
The aim of this paper is to appraise NAF CSAR capability with a view
to making recommendations.
OVERVIEW OF NAF CSAR CAPABILITY
9.
A brief history of NAF involvement in SAR and CSAR operations will
be highlighted in order to assess its performance in this role so far.
Furthermore, In order to ascertain NAF’s CSAR capability the present
structure, state of equipment and manpower for CSAR would be assessed.
THE HISTORY OF CSAR IN THE NAF
10.
The NAF is primarily responsible for aerial SAR in Nigeria.
In 1983,
the NAF participated in the rescue of staff from the Nigerian External
Telecommunications (NET) limited building fire disaster in Lagos.
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The BO-105 helicopter was effectively used for the rescue operation. The
NAF, during this period had 4 dedicated B105 helicopters on standby for
SAR.9 However, from the 1990s, NAF participation in SAR reduced due to
lack of specialised equipment, poor aircraft serviceability, as well as a
decline in personnel training.10
Therefore, on 26 Sep 92, the day of the
Ejigbo crash where NAF was unable to effectively conduct SAR to save the
lives of the passengers of the C-130 aircraft crash at Ejigbo.
11.
The NAF has not recorded many experiences in the conduct of
CSAR. However, in the current Counter Insurgency (COIN) Operations in
the NE of Nigeria, NA troops had aided the NAF to rescue one pilot and of
a crashed Mi 35p helicopter in Jun 14. Recently, on 12 Sep 14, 2 NAF
Alpha Jet pilots failed to return from a combat mission in the NE. Although
the NAF had employed the use of the ATR42 MPA for reconnaissance to
search for the missing aircraft and crew, the efforts have yet to be
successful and the pilots have now been declared Missing in Action (MIA).
12.
Invariably, despite its limited equipment and platforms, the NAF had
participated in successful SAR in Nigeria. However, NAF capability in SAR
became limited mainly due to poor aircraft serviceability rates and
unavailability of adequate SAR platforms and equipment. This has shown
inadequacies in the ability of NAF to conduct CSAR, as evident in the
unsuccessful rescue efforts of the 2 MIA Alpha jet pilots. The current NAF
SAR structure/policy, aircraft platforms, equipment and training would need
to be appraised in other to reposition NAF for effective CSAR.
9
10
AVM IA Shehu, interview by author, 17 Dec 14, Abuja, Safety and Evaluation Branch, HQ NAF, Abuja.
Ibid.
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NAF CSAR ORGANISATION AND POLICY
13.
At present, the NAF does not have its own dedicated office or unit for
SAR operations. There is also no specific NAF policy or doctrine on the
conduct of CSAR. Nevertheless, NAF units such as 97 SOG that operate
helicopters (Mi 35p and Agusta 109 LUH) are usually tasked to conduct
SAR, when necessary. 11
14.
In order to conduct timely and effective CSAR operations, the NAF
would need to establish dedicated CSAR units across NAF Disaster
response Units (DRUs) in Nigeria. Accordingly, the units would comprise
pilots, technicians, regiment (Special Forces) and medical personnel
trained for CSAR operations. This would enable NAF respond and conduct
CSAR operations over the entire country.
NAF CSAR PLATFORMS AND EQUIPMENT
15.
The C-130 Hercules is the largest transport aircraft in the NAF
inventory. It can carry 92 lightly armed troops or a total of 64 paratroopers.
The C-130 can be used in CSAR operations for the delivery of Special
Forces, recovering personnel, helicopter air to air refuelling (AAR) medical
evacuation and landing to act as a forward area petrol station.12 The NAF
has 8 x C-130 aircraft in her inventory. However, none of the C-130 aircraft
11
AVM Zannah, interview with author, 18 Dec 14, Abuja, Policy and Plans Branch, HQ NAF, Abuja.
Tarantola Andrew, ‘The HC-130J Combat King II; Combat Search and Rescue, Supersized’,
http:/www.gizmodo.com (accessed 1 Dec 14).
12
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is equipped for CSAR operations.13 One NAF C-130 could therefore be
upgraded with CSAR equipment and dedicated for CSAR operations. The
upgrade could include radar and missile warning receivers to detect threats
and chaff and flare dispensers to counter incoming threats, and stretchers
amongst others.
16.
The AS 332 B Super Puma is a multi role helicopter. Four of these
aircraft are currently in the NAF inventory, but none is serviceable. The
aircraft can be used for troop movement, medical evacuation, SAR and
CSAR operations. Apart from the need for arming the helicopter, installing
winches and air to ground communication with downed crew; the aircraft
would not require any special equipment to conduct CSAR.14
17.
The helicopters usually constitute the main assets of an air force in
SAR operations. The Mi 35 and Agusta 109H helicopters in the NAF
inventory are useful in search, but cannot effectively perform rescue.15
The Mi 35 helicopter for instance has limited endurance and can only hover
for about 10 minutes, which is considered insufficient for effective CSAR.16
Furthermore, in order to perform effective SAR, the helicopters need to be
fitted with search lights for night operations, cutting machine, winch,
medical facilities, personal location beacons and safety equipment. The
platforms must also be fitted with night vision imaging systems.
13
14
15
16
AVM OA Odunlade, interview by author, 18 Dec14, Abuja, Training and Operations branch, HQ NAF Abuja.
Flt lt KK Samaila, Super Puma pilot, interview by author, 10 Oct 14.
SPG Media limited/Army-technology.com, (accessed, 15 Oct 14).
Sqn Ldr AA Opaleye, Mi35p Helicopter pilot, interview by author, 21 Oct 14.
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18.
The NAF also has the ATR 42 MPA, which is fitted with the latest
Advanced Tactical Observation System (ATOS), and an open and modular
integrated mission management system.17 In addition to its primary role of
maritime and coastal surveillance, the aircraft can be used for identification
and surveillance in SAR operations. The ATR42-MPA has been used in the
later role in the current COIN operations in the NE of Nigeria.18
19.
From the foregoing, The NAF currently lacks specialised CSAR
platforms. However, some aircraft in the NAF inventory could be used for
CSAR operations. These include the C-130 Hercules, Super Puma, Mi-35
and Agusta 109 LUH helicopters.
However, these aircraft need to be
fitted with CSAR equipment. The NAF is therefore limited in the range of
SAR operations it can perform with these aircraft.
Some of the current
NAF platforms that could be used for CSAR operations, particularly the
helicopters could therefore be upgraded with CSAR equipment. These
equipment include radars, air to ground communication equipment,
winches and stretchers.
Others are search lights for night operations,
cutting machine, medical facilities, personal location beacons, safety
equipment and night vision imaging systems.
The upgraded platforms
could therefore be dedicated for CSAR operations.
17
Spotlight on Nigerian Special Mission aircraft: the Alenia ATR 42-500 MPA Surveyor,
https://beegeagle.wordpress.com/2012/12/13/spotlight-on-nigerian-special-mission-aircraft-the-alenia-atr-42-500mpa-surveyor/ (accessed 22 Oct 14)
18
Wg Cdr M Ibrahim, ATR42 MPA pilot, phone interview by author, 4 Nov 14.
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MANPOWER AND TRAINING
20.
The NAF has competent fixed wing aircraft and helicopter pilots.
However, the majority of the pilots are not specifically trained on SAR or
CSAR, which is an advanced and specialised training. Many of the pilots
have also not undergone further training after their basic survival training.19
In the same vein, the NAF has no standard survival training manual for its
personnel.
21.
The lack of CSAR training for NAF pilots could make the pilots less
effective in the conduct of CSAR operations. In addition, due to inadequate
survival training, the pilots could also have reduced survivability in the
event that their aircraft is downed.20 Furthermore, the technicians and
regiment personnel that could be deployed for CSAR are also not trained
on the handling of the equipment.21 NAF CSAR manpower and training is
therefore inadequate to effectively conduct CSAR operations. In order to
enhance NAF CSAR operational effectiveness, there would be the need to
train sufficient number of personnel that would be deployed for CSAR
operations. This would include helicopter pilots, technicians, medical and
regiment personnel.
19
20
21
Air Cdre IA Yahaya, Rector International Helicopter Flying School, phone interview by author,14 Nov 14.
Ibid.
Air Cdre Ifezue, DOREGT interview by author, 18 Dec 14, Abuja.
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CHALLENGES MILITATING AGAINST CSAR IN THE NAF
22.
The challenges limiting NAF’s capability to conduct effective SAR
include inadequate CSAR policy, lack of dedicated CSAR unit and SAR
coordination centre, inadequate platforms and inefficient equipment, as well
as lack of trained manpower.
LACK OF A CSAR POLICY FOR NAF
23.
Policies usually form the inputs for a doctrine.22 The NAF currently
does not have a policy on CSAR.23 There is therefore no operational NAF
doctrine on CSAR. Hence, CSAR in the NAF is not specifically guided, but
conducted impromptu based on the capability of the tasked unit.
24.
A CSAR operational doctrine would guide the NAF in conducting
military action by describing the effective employment of assets in relation
to force capabilities, the mission and the operational environments. This
would translate to appropriate execution of roles and tasks through a unit’s
Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
INADEQUATE PLATFORMS
25.
The platforms currently in the NAF inventory that could be used for
CSAR include the Mi-35P, Agusta 109 LUH, Super Puma and C-130
Hercules.
22
23
The serviceability status of these aircraft as at 4 Jan 14
Gp Capt FO Edosa, NAF Operational Doctrine, Lecture delivered to SC 37 DAW on 9 Oct 14.
AVM Zannah, interview with author, 18 Dec 14, Abuja, Policy and Plans Branch, HQ NAF, Abuja.
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indicates that 4 mi-35p, 4 Agusta 109 LUH, 2 Super puma and 2 C -130H
are available. Out of these numbers, the average serviceability status from
Jan to Dec 14 indicates that 2 Mi-35P Helicopters, one C-130 Hercules,
one Super Puma and 3 Agusta LUH aircraft were serviceable.24
26.
The serviceability status of these aircraft that could be employed for
CSAR is below 50 per cent of NAF aircraft operational readiness standard.
This is further complicated by the lack of spares and in-house capability for
in-depth maintenance.25
Consequently, with the current serviceability
status of the available platforms, the NAF cannot effectively carry out
CSAR operations.
INADEQUATE EQUIPMENT
27.
Currently, there are no dedicated operational helicopters equipped for
CSAR operations in the NAF. The effective conduct of CSAR operations in
the NAF would depend largely on the availability of well equipped CSAR
helicopters. In addition to rappelling, the helicopters must have the
capabilities to perform winching and air dropping. Making a projection of 2
helicopters for each of the 8 Disaster DRUs in the country, a minimum of
16 serviceable and CSAR equipped helicopters would be required for the
NAF to effectively conduct CSAR operations across Nigeria.
28.
There are also some equipment including heavy-duty cranes/forklifts,
fireman cutters and earthmovers needed by the NAF for some CSAR
24
25
Wg Cdr EO Kpokpogri, SO1 prod, Aircraft and Engineering Branch, phone interview by author, 4 Jan 14.
AVM I Umaru, interview by author, 17 Dec 14, Abuja, Aircraft and Engineering Branch, HQ NAF, Abuja.
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operations. Whenever the equipment are needed, the NAF may need to
liaise with other supporting agencies as necessary. Furthermore, the NAF
currently has insufficient communication equipment, which reduces NAF
capability to perform effective CSAR.26
A concerted effort is therefore
required to procure CSAR equipment to enable NAF perform efficiently in
CSAR operations.
INADEQUATE TRAINING
29.
There is currently no specific CSAR training for pilots and
other personnel in the NAF. CSAR involve operations such as air dropping,
air-ground
winching,
medical/casualty
evacuations,
SAR
mission
co-ordination, and damage assessment.27 CSAR training is therefore a
specialist training which needs to be conducted as an advanced course for
NAF combat pilots, as well as regiment Special Forces (SF) to make them
more effective in CSAR operations.
30.
The NAF also does not conduct any CSAR training mission or
simulated exercises.28 Such exercises need to be conducted as part of a
CSAR unit’s routine training. This will enable such units properly
understand their environment. Also, CSAR training missions will identify
areas of weaknesses in the Unit’s conduct of CSAR operations.
Furthermore, such missions could be simulated at the Armed Forces
Simulation Centre, (AFSC) Jaji.
26
27
28
Wg Cdr NN Bature, SO1 Comms, Communications and Logistics Branch, interview by author, 17 Dec 14.
Ibid. AVM IA Shehu.
Ibid. AVM Odunlade.
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WAY FORWARD
31.
The NAF has the potential to effectively conduct CSAR operations.29
However, due to the challenges earlier highlighted, it has been unable to
successfully carry out this role.
To enable the NAF conduct effective
CSAR, some measures that should be taken include formulation of a CSAR
policy and doctrine, specialist training of personnel and provision of
adequate platforms and equipment.
SAR POLICY AND DOCTRINE
32.
Policy is the bedrock upon which organisations conduct their tasks.
To this end, the NAF should issue a policy document to guide the conduct
of SAR in the NAF. The Policy and Plans Branch, in conjunction with the
Training and Operations Branch should be tasked to originate NAF CSAR
policy. This document should include clearly set out responsibilities as well
as the do’s and donts for the conduct of CSAR during NAF operations.
33.
In the USAF, CSAR is guided by specific documents including the
Joint publications 3-50.2, Doctrine for Joint Combat Search and
Rescue; 3-50.21, Joint Tactics, Techniques and Procedures for Combat
Search and Rescue; and the Air Force Doctrine Document (AFDD) 2-1.6,
Combat Search and Rescue 2-1.6. The AFDD 2-1.6, establishes
operational doctrine for USAF CSAR operations and outlines the principles
29
Ibid., AVM IA Shehu.
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and procedures which guide Air Force CSAR organisation, command and
control, force composition, planning, and employment. 30 The NAF could
therefore use the AFDD 2-1.6 as a guide to develop its own CSAR
Doctrine.
ESTABLISHMENT OF A RESCUE COORDINATING STRUCTURE
34.
In order to enhance NAF CSAR capability, there is the need for the
establishment of a dedicated rescue coordinating centre. This is line with
the best practices of air forces that have dedicated CSAR forces, such as
the RAF, USAF and South African air force. The NAF could therefore
establish a dedicated rescue centre of Wing status, under each of the NAF
operational groups.
(RCW).
This could be named a Rescue Coordinating Wing
The Comds of units having a RCW would be tasked to conduct
CSAR without waiting for clearance from HQ NAF. The COs of the RCWs
would therefore be empowered to deploy aircraft under their command
when any CSAR operation is necessary. HQ NAF could be then informed
of the CSAR operation thereafter.
This would help reduce the response
time for conducting rescue operations, thereby enhancing NAF CSAR
capability.
Furthermore the RCWs would be directly responsible to fulfil
the roles of a NAF DRU.
35.
The proposed RCW would be commanded by a CSAR trained pilot of
the rank of gp capt. The RCWs would consist of 5 squadrons, namely: Air
Operations Squadron (AOS); Special Forces Squadron (SFS), headed by a
30
Combat Search and Rescue, Air Force Doctrine Document (AFDD) 2-1.6.
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regt offr of the rank of wg cdr who would also deputise for the CO; Aircraft
Engineering Squadron (AcES), Logistics Services Squadron (LSS) and a
Medical Squadron.
PROVISION OF ADEQUATE PLATFORMS
36.
The NAF needs to have adequate platforms to enable it conduct
successful CSAR operations. Helicopters are well suited to perform CSAR
tasks, which include Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC), rappelling, winching
and air dropping of relief materials.31
Currently, the total number of
helicopters in the NAF is less than 2 squadrons.
As at 4 Jan 15, the NAF
had a total of 14 helicopters comprising 5 Agusta 109 LUH, 4 Super
Puma, 2 Mi-35P and 2 Mi 24 helicopters were serviceable.32
37.
The Mi-35P, in particular, has been the main platform used for both
SAR and CSAR in the NAF.33
helicopters
for
each
Rescue
Hence, considering a minimum of 2
Coordination
Wing
(RCW),
a
total
of 16 Mi-35P helicopters would need to be provided for effective CSAR in
the NAF. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that the Mi-35P has a hovering
endurance of less than 10 minutes and can carry only 2 stretchers and a
maximum of 6 troops. Therefore, more than a few Mi-35P helicopters would
be needed to perform any CSAR effectively. A more appropriate platform
could be the Mi-17 helicopter.34 This helicopter has more than 20 minutes
hovering endurance, and can carry 10 stretchers and 12 troops.
31
32
33
34
Ibid., AVM IA Shehu.
Ibid., Wg Cdr EO Kpokpogri.
AVM SB Abubakar, interview by author, 18 Dec 14 Abuja, DHQ, Abuja.
Ibid.
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minimum of 2 squadrons of the Mi-17 helicopter could therefore be
procured to replace the Mi-35p in order to enhance NAF’s capability to
conduct CSAR.
PROVISION OF SPECIALISED EQUIPMENT
38.
To enable effective conduct of CSAR operations, the NAF needs to
provide some special equipment on its helicopters and other platforms.35
Although the Mi-35p helicopter has been configured to enable rappelling of
troops using ropes, the NAF needs to further equip its operational
helicopters with winches.
39.
There is also the need for the NAF to provide RCWs with adequate
specialist equipment including heavy-duty cranes/forklifts, fireman cutters
and fire fighting equipment, which could be used for both CSAR and
disaster management operations. The NAF also needs to have the
capability to conduct CSAR operations in the night. Such operations could
be conducted by use of Night Vision Goggles (NVG), searchlights and night
vision binoculars amongst others.
The NAF needs to provide these
equipment for its CSAR platforms and personnel to further enhance NAF
CSAR capability.
40.
Specific equipment would also need to be provided for different
RCWs due to their peculiar environments. For instance, CSAR platforms
operating in the Nigerian maritime environment need to be properly
35
Ibid.
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equipped with survival equipment ranging from life rafts to locating and
signalling devices. In the forest region, equipment such as axes, cutting
tools, chain saw machines and cutlasses would be needed to access some
rescue sites.
The NAF would also need to provide RCWs with other
rescue equipment including stretchers, oxygen and first aid equipment to
treat survivors and cater for crash.
41.
From the foregoing, in order to enhance its SAR capability, the NAF
needs to equip its operational helicopters with winches and certain safety
and survival equipment. These include axes, rafts, stretchers and signalling
devices. Furthermore, the provision of NAF CSAR platforms and personnel
with equipment such as NVG, searchlights and night vision binoculars
would enable NAF conduct night CSAR operations, thereby enhancing
NAF CSAR effectiveness.
TRAINING OF MANPOWER FOR CSAR
42.
The NAF has competent rotary and fixed wing pilots that could be
trained to conduct CSAR.
The regiment and other supporting personnel
would also need CSAR training for NAF to be able to effectively conduct
CSAR operations.
Hence, there is the need to give the basic
crash/survival training to the pilots, regiment and other supporting
personnel (such as technicians and medical).
43.
The pilots would further undergo CSAR flying training as an
advanced course after completing their basic training. Preferably, a pilot
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selected for CSAR flying training would be an instructor pilot on the
particular aircraft type.
These training would include air dropping and
rappelling, medical/casualty evacuation and winching. Similarly, supporting
personnel such as the aircraft technicians would need to be specially
trained on the handling of winching and rescue equipment. The effective
CSAR training of NAF helicopter pilots, technicians and medical personnel
would enhance NAF operational effectiveness in CSAR.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
44.
This section suggests how to implement some of the proposed
measures to enhance NAF CSAR capability.
In line with the duration of
the NAF Establishment, a 5 – year period is set as medium term
benchmark.
Hence, zero to 3 years is taken as short term, while 5 years
and above is long term. Accordingly, the implementation of the
proposed
RCWs,
communication
provision
and
rescue
of
adequate
equipment
aircraft
will
platforms
be
and
highlighted.
The proposed strategy for the implementation of manpower training will
also be discussed.
ESTABLISHMENT OF PROPOSED RCWs
45.
The proposed RCWs would be established in the current NAF DRU
locations across Nigeria. Hence, 8 RCWs would need to be established to
cover the 8 DRU geographical zones. One RCW each would therefore be
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established at NAF Bases Makurdi, Yola, Benin, Port Harcourt, Kainji,
Ikeja, Kaduna and Kano.
46.
Details of the states covered for each geographical zone, the NAF
DRUs and proposed RCWs are at Annex A. The proposed organisational
structure for the RCW is also at Annex B. Accordingly, the establishment of
the proposed RCWs will provide the NAF with a dedicated rescue unit
which could be adequately equipped for effective CSAR operations.
PROVISION OF ADEQUATE PLATFORMS FOR RCWs
47.
In the long term, it would be appropriate for each RCW to have at
least 2 Mi -17 helicopters for effective conduct of CSAR within Nigeria. This
option is expensive, as it entails deploying 16 helicopters dedicated to
cover the proposed RCWs. This implies that operational aircraft would be
tied down in certain locations, only to be used when there is an emergency.
Nevertheless, this option would enable NAF to effectively conduct CSAR,
as well as fulfil its role in the National disaster response Plan under NEMA.
The NAF could therefore implement this option within the next 10 years.
48.
In the middle term, a mix of any 2 helicopters would need to be
provided for each of the proposed RCWs. Thus, an RCW would
have 2 helicopters, but not necessarily of the same type (for instance, a
combination of 1 X Mi-35p and 1 X Mi-24).
In the short term, 4 of the
proposed 8 NAF RCWs could each be covered by 2 helicopters. From the
serviceability status, an average of 6 helicopters is serviceable annually.
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The NAF therefore needs 2 additional helicopters to cover the selected 4
RCWs. Currently, 14 NAF helicopters are unserviceable.
To enable NAF
conduct effective CSAR, at least 4 of these helicopters need to be
serviceable, especially the Mi-35p, Mi-24, Super Puma and LUH 109
helicopters. Furthermore, the recently acquired Beechcraft Kingair and the
Diamond aircraft would need to complement the ATR 42 MPA aircraft in
Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance roles to further enhance
NAF’s CSAR capability.
PROVISION OF EQUIPMENT FOR RCWs
49.
In the long term, the NAF would need to install winches in all
operational helicopters. Furthermore, new procurements would be required
to have winches and other safety equipment installed. Special heavy duty
equipment such as cranes and forklifts would also be procured for all the
RCWs. Nevertheless, in the short to medium term, there is the need to
install
all
operational
Super
Puma
Mi-35p,
helicopters
with
Agusta
109
LUH,
winches
and
safety
Mi-24
and
equipment.
The installations could commence on the 2 serviceable Mi-35p and Mi-24
helicopters deployed in the NE, followed by the 3 serviceable
Agusta 109 LUH.
50.
In the short term, all NAF aircraft would need to have an Emergency
Locator Transmitter (ELT), while pilots would have to carry a Personal
Locator beacon (PLB) for all operational flights. The NAF would also need
to make an agreement with organisations that have heavy duty equipment,
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so that the RCWs could make use of such equipment when required. In
this regard public and private construction companies such as Julius
Berger could be approached to assist.
TRAINING FOR CSAR
51.
In the short term, the NAF could introduce a standardised basic crash
and survival training course for all NAF Flying Training Schools.
This
would replace the improvised survival training sometimes conducted at
Infantry Corps and Centre (ICC), Jaji for 301 and 303 FTS student pilots.
To this end, the NAF would need to produce a basic crash and survival
training
manual
that
would
serve
as
the
reference
document for the training. Accordingly, HQ NAF would need to
task 301, 303 and 305 FTS to form a committee to produce the NAF Basic
Survival Training Manual.
In this regard, the committee could be guided
by the USA Federal Aviation Authority’s Basic Survival Skills for Aviation
Manual.36
A review by the author of the FAA Basic Survival Skills for
Aviation Manual is enclosed.
52.
In the medium term, the NAF could conduct the basic survival training
at Minna and Ipetu -Ijesha. However, for the units to effectively handle this
responsibility, NAF would need to train the instructors and adequately
equip the units.37 This could be cost intensive, especially as the initial
training of instructors would need to be conducted abroad.
36
Office of Aerospace Medicine Civil Aerospace Medical Institute Aeromedical Education Division, Basic
Survival Skills for Aviation, accessed at http://www.faa.gov/pilots/training/airman_education.
37
Air Cdre Ifezue DOREGT, interview by author, 18 Dec 14, Abuja.
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53.
It is proposed that the selected instructors undergo the renowned
USA Pararescue training programme.
The training to become a
Pararescue man in the USAF lasts for about 2 years.
However, the NAF
could reduce the cost of the instructor training, by collaborating with ICC to
conduct the diving, airborne and free-fall parachutist aspects of the
Pararescue training.
In addition to training of instructors The NAF would
also need to equip the Centre with relevant reference materials on survival
training and equipment including life jackets, jack knives and pistol flares.
CONCLUSION
54.
Over the years, despite its limited equipment and platforms, the NAF
had participated in successful SAR in Nigeria.
However, NAF SAR
capability became limited mainly due to poor aircraft serviceability rates
and unavailability of adequate platforms and equipment.
This also
affected the ability of NAF to conduct CSAR, as evident in the unsuccessful
rescue
efforts
of
the
Mi-35p
helicopter
pilot
in
Jun
14
and
the 2 MIA Alpha jet pilots in Sep 14 (Paragraph 12).
55.
Although the NAF currently lacks specialised CSAR platforms, some
aircraft in the NAF inventory could be used for CSAR operations.
These
include the C-130 Hercules, Super Puma, Mi-35p and Agusta 109 LUH
helicopters. However, these aircraft need to be fitted with CSAR
equipment. These equipment include radars, air to ground communication
equipment, winches and stretchers.
Others are search lights for night
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operations, cutting machine, medical facilities, personal location beacons,
safety
equipment
and
night
vision
imaging
systems.
The upgraded platforms could therefore be dedicated for CSAR operations
(Paragraph 19).
56.
NAF CSAR manpower and training is considered inadequate to
effectively conduct CSAR operations. In order to enhance NAF CSAR
operational effectiveness, there would be the need to train sufficient
number of personnel that would be deployed for CSAR operations.
This
would include helicopter pilots, technicians, medical and regiment
personnel (Paragraph 21).
57.
There are some challenges limiting NAF’s capability to conduct
effective CSAR operations. There is no operational NAF doctrine on CSAR.
Hence, CSAR in the NAF is not specifically guided, but conducted
impromptu based on the capability of the tasked unit. A CSAR operational
doctrine is needed to guide the NAF in conducting military action, by
describing
force
the
effective
capabilities,
the
employment
mission
and
of
the
assets
in
operational
relation
to
environments
(Paragraphs 23 and 24).
58.
In order to enhance its capability, the NAF should issue a policy
document to guide the conduct of CSAR operations. The Policy and Plans
Branch, in conjunction with the Training and Operations Branch should be
tasked to originate NAF CSAR policy. The NAF could therefore use the
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AFDD 2-1.6 as a guide to develop its own CSAR Doctrine (Paragraphs 32
and 33).
59.
There is also the need for the establishment of a dedicated rescue
coordinating centre under each of the NAF operational groups, to be known
as a RCW.
The RCWs would also fulfil the roles of a NAF DRU. The
proposed RCW would be commanded by a CSAR trained pilot of the rank
of gp capt and would consist of 5 squadrons, namely: Air Operations
Squadron (AOS); Special Forces Squadron (SFS), headed by a regt offr of
the rank of Wg cdr who would also deputise for the CO; Aircraft
Engineering Squadron (AcES), Logistics Services Squadron (LSS) and a
Medical Squadron (Paragraphs 34 and 35).
60.
The proposed RCWs could have a minimum of 2 helicopters.
Hence, 16 Mi-35p helicopters would need to be provided for effective
CSAR in the NAF. With a higher hovering endurance and troop carrying
capacity, the Mi-17 helicopter is considered a better platform for CSAR. A
minimum of 2 squadrons of the Mi-17 helicopter could therefore be
procured to replace the Mi-35p in order to enhance NAF’s capability to
conduct CSAR (Paragraphs 36 and 37).
63.
In order to implement the measures to enhance NAF CSAR
capability, one RCW would each be established at NAF Bases Makurdi,
Yola, Benin, Port Harcourt, Kainji, Ikeja, Kaduna and Kano.
Also, In the
long term, it would be appropriate for each RCW to have at least 2 Mi -17
helicopters for effective conduct of CSAR within Nigeria.
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Furthermore, In
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the short term, all NAF aircraft would need to have an Emergency Locator
Transmitter (ELT), while pilots would have to carry a Personal Locator
beacon (PLB) for all operational flights (Paragraphs 45,47 and 50).
64.
In terms of training, in the short term, HQ NAF would need to
task 301, 303 and 305 FTS to form a committee to produce NAF Basic
Survival Training Manual.
The committee could use the USA Federal
Aviation Authority’s Basic Survival Skills for Aviation Manual as a guide.
In the medium term, the NAF could conduct the basic survival training at
the Quick Response Force (QRF), Minna and Regiment Training Centre
Ipetu -Ijesha. However, the NAF would need to train the instructors and
adequately equip the units (Paragraphs 51 and 52).
RECOMMENDATIONS
66.
It is recommended that HQ NAF should:
a.
Upgrade and install CSAR equipment on dedicated C-130,
Super Puma, Mi-35p, and Agusta 109 LUH aircraft for CSAR
operations (Paragraph 55).
b.
Train sufficient helicopter pilots, technicians, medical and
regiment personnel in the conduct of CSAR (Paragraph56).
c.
Task Policy and Plans Branch to produce NAF CSAR policy and
doctrine guiding the conduct of CSAR operations (Paragraph 58).
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d.
Establish the proposed RCWs at NAF Bases Makurdi, Yola, Benin,
Port Harcourt, Kainji, Ikeja, Kaduna and Kano. (Paragraph 63).
e.
Task 301 FTS, 303 FTS and 305 FTS to produce a NAF Basic
Survival Training Manual (Paragraph 64).
SC STUDENT
Sqn Ldr
Student
Jaji-Kaduna
Jan 15
Annexes:
A.
B.
NAF DRUs and Proposed NAF RCWs.
Organogram of Proposed NAF RCWs.
Enclosure:
1.
Basic Survival Skills for Aviation – A Review by Student.
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REFERENCES
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