Tongan Air Wing
| Tonga Air Wing | |
|---|---|
| Active | May 4, 1996 (1996-05-04) |
| Country | Tonga |
| Type | Air force |
| Role | Aerial warfare |
| Size | 10 personnel[1] |
Military unit
The Tongan Air Wing is the aerial warfare arm of His Majesty's Armed Forces of Tonga. The Air Wing supports the surveillance of the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and conducts Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.
History
Tonga's unsuccessful attempt to start an air wing happened in 1986, when a Victa Airtourer light aircraft was obtained. However, the aircraft was re-sold soon after.[2] On 4 May 1996, the air wing was created successfully, with Tonga obtaining a Beech 18.[2] In 1999, Tonga obtained a Citabria to assist with training.[2] In 2008, a new aircraft was promised by the Chinese Ambassador to Tonga, Fan Guijin.[3]
Aircraft
| Aircraft | Origin | Type | Variant | In service | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transport | ||||||
| Beech 18 | United States | transport | 1[2][4] | |||
| Citabria | United States | transport | 1[2][5] | |||
References
- ^ "His Majesty's Armed Forces Corporate Plan & Budget 2020–2023" (PDF). HMAF HQ. 2020-04-16. p. 33. Retrieved 2024-06-13.
- ^ a b c d e "His Majesty's Armed Forces of Tonga – Aeroflight". 2016-05-02. Retrieved 2024-06-09.
- ^ "China promises aircraft for TDS". Matangi Tonga. 2008-11-22. Retrieved 2024-06-10.
- ^ "Aircraft Data N9644R, 1959 Beech G18S C/N BA-483". www.airport-data.com. Retrieved 2024-06-10.
- ^ "American Champion Citabria". Coletti's Combat Aircraft. Retrieved 2024-06-10.
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His Majesty's Armed Forces (Tonga)
- Army of Tonga
- Tongan Maritime Force
- Tongan Air Wing
- Commander-in-Chief
- Chief of the Defence Staff
