RNZAF Force Protection
| RNZAF Security Forces | |
|---|---|
| Active | RNZAF Police (1945-1999) Air Security Police (2000–2006) Air Security (2007–2009) Force Protection (2010–2015) Security Forces (2016–Present) |
| Country |
 New Zealand
|
| Branch |
 Royal New Zealand Air Force
|
| Type | Air Force Infantry |
| Role | Security & Ground Defence |
| Part of | New Zealand Defence Force |
| Garrison/HQ | RNZAF Base Auckland |
| Colours | Black and White |
| Website | www |
| Insignia | |
| Patch | To be confirmed |
RNZAF Security Forces is the Royal New Zealand Air Force unit responsible for security and Ground Defence as well as training on Core Military Skills. As of March 2015 following a major reorganisation of the RNZAF, No. 209 Expeditionary Support Squadron was disbanded and renamed as Operations Squadron. RNZAF Security Forces now operates under this new squadron.
RNZAF Security Forces are more commonly known in the RNZAF simply as SECFOR. They have a similar role to other Air Force units such as USAF Security Forces, RAAF Airfield Defence Guards, and the RAF Regiment however it is smaller in size compared to their UK, American and Australian counterparts. The primary role of RNZAF Security Forces is to provide the Air Force with security of aircraft & personnel, as well as protection of airfields.
The Military Working Dog (MWD) unit provides a further security function, and works closely with their FP team members. The MWD unit was first established in the early 1960s when the RNZAF purchased six P-3 Orions; due to the high tech nature of systems and equipment on these aircraft, the RNZAF Police military working dogs were seen as the most effective form of security.
The MWD unit holds extra responsibility for RNZAF aircraft and plays a very important role in protecting them from sabotage and acting as a deterrent around RNZAF bases or when deployed overseas.
Currently in the New Zealand Defence Force the RNZAF maintain the only MWD capability; dogs for the unit are usually sourced from the New Zealand Police; all dog breeds are German Shepherds. In the future there are plans to expand the MWD unit due to the recent upgrades on the P-3 Orion, C-130 Hercules and the purchase of NH-90 and A-109 helicopters.
The Military Working Dog unit is a specialisation and personnel are selected for this role once they have completed at least two to three years as a Security Forces Operator. Currently the Military Working Dog unit is located at RNZAF Base Auckland.
...
Wikipedia