Air Force MYSverse

Have you ever wondered how the Air Force works? Or the capabilities and roles are?

The Air Force seems complex and has a multiplex of different squadrons, armaments and aircraft. Especially as many community members have never delved into the aerial component of the armed forces, sharing what we do effectively and efficiently has been a priority for us.

Well fret not,

We will guide you through the components of the Air Force in this Blog!

What is the air force about?

In MYSverse Sim, the air force serves as the principal aerial warfare branch within the Armed Forces. Our mission is to defend our nation’s sovereignty and integrity through the effective use of air power and dominance.

What are the responsibilities of the air force?

The air force is primarily responsible for the control and defence of the nation’s air space. Tasked with the rapid interception of any unwelcomed aircraft at a moment’s notice. We also host joint operations with other branches of the armed forces alongside allied nations, enhancing our effectiveness to achieve a strategic objective.

Our abilities to deter aggressors are not limited to the air, the air force also possesses dedicated land warfare units to dissuade any ground threats from entering airfields and military assets. As well as having specialised Ground-Based Air Defence (GBAD) units to screen the air of any hostile threats and respond by deploying ground based interceptors.

Is the air force only composed of pilots?

The air force is not just composed of pilots, but also relies on a significant amount of support from other personnel to operate. Logistics, security, intelligence, special operations, maintenance, air traffic control, and many other specialties are required by the air force.

One example is our GBAD units that are the main ground based line of defence against aerial threats in critical infrastructure and airbases. GBAD elements are often integrated with aerial operations to ensure combat readiness at all times. 

We also have our ground units, our Regiment members who are trained in field combat.

Another great example will be our Ground Defence Force (HANDAU) which is an infantry unit part of the RMAF Regiment. HANDAU’s key responsibilities include providing security forces to airbases as well as serving as air assault infantry. They act as the backbone which allows air operations to run safely, and are the force that protects the force.

Stop the blabbering! Where are the aircrafts?!

Now onto our aircraft squadrons, which form up the main face of the RMAF. Squadrons serve as a force multiplier on combat operations and acts as a deterrence against any opposing forces. Each and every squadron has a different specialised operational role which can support ground, naval and aerial operations.

10th Squadron

The 10th Squadron serves as the principal rotary wing squadron, this squadron operates the Eurocopter EC725 and AgustaWestland AW139 helicopters. 

Their primary duties include but are not limited to Combat Support & Light Close Air Support, Medical & Casualty Evacuation (MEDEVAC/CASEVAC) and Light Cargo Transport. This multirole squadron may deploy independently or in joint operations with other squadrons.

12th Squadron

The 12th Squadrons is part of the Combat Fixed Wing squadron, this squadron operates the legendary Sukhoi SU-30MKM, the improved and highly specialised variant of the SU-30.

Interception is the 12th Squadron’s raison d'être, and specialises in air dominance missions and operations. They are the premier combat fixed wing squadron in the RMAF, ensuring air superiority within our nation’s territories.

15th Squadron

The 15th Squadron is a prominent fighter unit part of the Combat Fixed Wing squadron, this squadron operates the BAE Hawk 108/208 as well as the highly modern FA-50M. 

This squadron focuses on carrying out close air support (CAS) through airstrikes during missions and operations. They serve as the primary combat fixed wing squadron for CAS missions and are trained to out maneuver low-level air defence systems while deployed.

18th Squadron 

The 18th squadron nicknamed “The Mighty Hornet” is an infamous fighter unit part of the Combat Fixed Wing squadron, this squadron operates the iconic FA-18D.

The squadron deploys on multi-role missions and is often found on operations. They can be seen defending air space alongside escorting high value aircraft. This squadron maintains a strong operational presence on the battlefield, complimenting the specialties of other squadrons

20th Squadron

The 20th Squadron nicknamed “The Heavy Lifters” is the primary transport and logistics squadron and operates the Airbus A400M, C-130 Hercules and the CN-235.

This squadron is highly specialised in the transport of personnel, equipment and supplies. The squadron also has the capability to conduct aerial & cargo drop (Paradrop) missions as well as maritime patrol operations. This squadron’s capability to conduct air-to-air refueling missions makes them vital for supporting combat fixed wing squadrons in long-range missions. 

What is life like in the air force?

We’ve got your question covered, life as an airman is an exciting and thrilling one that is filled with discipline and teamwork. Not everything can be done efficiently without the help of your fellow airmen so you will learn how to operate under teamwork. The air force frequently conducts operations and exercises to sharpen the abilities of each individual airman, as well as hosting qualification intake training to further develop skills for each airman which can range from Central Band intakes to the Marksman qualification training.

Another great example of one of our events is our close-quarters battle (CQB) training, hosted to refresh our airmen’s knowledge on urban operation doctrines and tactics. These skills learned from training can greatly help an airman’s capability on the field, especially under pressure.

Let’s not forget the creme de la creme, the pilots. Our pilots frequently conduct formation flight training to ensure readiness in the event of a major parade. Our Combat Fixed Wing squadrons regularly organize ATA (air-to-air) & ATG (air-to-ground) missions, mixing combat readiness events with amusement and fun.Occasionally, we are also called upon to conduct parades.

Our ceremonial excellence is often displayed on major ceremonies such as Independence day or Air Force Day (HTU). We also host small scaled inspections, practicing our drill on the parade ground to prepare for future ceremonial parades.  

Our responsibility is not limited only to maintaining a constant and strong presence in the air, but also ground defence and base security.

The job scope of an airman is limitless, the sky’s the limit.