The former commander of the RAAF’s Air Task Group currently conducting combat operations over Iraq, Air Commodore Steve Roberton, has assumed command of Air Combat Group, taking over from the retiring Air Commodore Tony Grady.
Command of Air Combat Group, which operates the RAAF’s fast jet combat aircraft fleet of F/A-18F Super Hornets and F/A-18A/B ‘classic’ Hornets plus the Hawk lead-in fighter trainer and PC-9s used for FAC/JTAC training, was formally transferred to AIRCDRE Roberton during a change of command ceremony and parade at RAAF Base Williamtown on Friday morning.
Prior to commanding the Air Task Group, ‘Zed’ Roberton, who joined the RAAF in 1989 as a direct entry pilot trainee, was director general aerospace development. Other career highlights include commanding officer of 75 Squadron and head of the RAAF’s Air Combat Transition Office, which oversaw the Super Hornet’s introduction into service.
