Department of Defence

Have the Air Corps investigated whether they have sufficient fixed wing aircraft & pilots trained to provide 24/7 cover for Search and Rescue (SAR) Services with 15 minute take-off capacity. -Does the Air Corps have a sufficient number of AW139's with trained crew to provide 24/7 SAR Services for: North West, West, South East & East or any one of these areas. Please provide details. -Does the Air Corps have trained Drone operators which could be used to augment SAR operations?-Are the Air Corps currently training crews in: Night Flying, Winch Operations, Medical/First Aid -Which would enable the Corps to engage fully 24/7 in SAR operations. Has the Air Corps investigated the costs associated with providing full SAR services including cost/benefit analysis of aircraft purchase or leasing. - Has any report on the Air Corps ability to tender for the SAR service been prepared for the Officer Commanding the Air Corps Helicopter