Exercise Wallaby 2018 - Some Photos of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) AS332M Super Puma Helicopters Operating out of Rockhampton Airport

As the sun seemingly starts setting on the Singapore Armed Forces Exercise Wallaby 2018, local photographer Russell P has sent through some stunning late afternoon and early evening photos he recently captured of some of the six visiting Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Aerospatiale / Eurocopter AS332M Super Puma helicopters departing Rockhampton Airport for operations in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area (SWBTA).

As has been the case most years. the six visiting Super Puma helicopters are flown by the RSAF's 126 Helicopter Squadron "Cougar" (126 SQN).  Their motto is "Ready and Able", with the Cougar adopted as the squadron's motif.

Formed initially on 16 September 1992 at Sembawang Air Base in Singapore, the 126 SQN consisted of newly purchased Cougar helicopters, which were an upgraded version of the Super Puma helicopters then used by its sister squadron – 125 SQN. 126 Squadron is based at the Oakey Army Aviation Centre, supporting the Singapore Armed Force's training needs in Australia.

During their deployment to Rockhampton, the Super Pumas have been heard using their 'usual' radio callsigns of "Diamond" and "Ruby" for group flying and "Starling" when flying singularly.

Sincere thanks to Russell for taking the time to capture and send through these stunning photos!

All photos taken by Russell Prothero  ©