The 1st Divisional Aviation Regiment was formed on 26th April 1966 from 16 Army Light Aircraft Squadron. The Regiment was re-titled to the 1st Aviation Regiment on 31st March 1967. The Regiment has commanded a number of sub-units during it’s time and has also operated a variety of fixed and rotary wing aircraft. It has supported operations with the United Nations as early as 1961, the Vietnam War (1965-72) the Malaya Emergency (1965-73); and has continued to provide operational capability and community assistance in Australia and the Asia Pacific region. Notable recent deployments include service in Bougainville, East Timor and the Solomon Islands. The 1st Aviation Regiment currently consists of some 300 – 350 personnel which make up an inherently flexible and scalable organisation that is capable of operating in centralised, dispersed and independent roles; and in support of; or commanding combined arms forces at Battle Group level. Aside from the Regiment Headquarters, the Regiment has four sub-units; Technical Support Squadron, Logistics Support Squadron and 161 and 162 Attack Squadrons. The Unit currently operates the EC665 Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH). The Griffin is a legendary creature portraying strength and vigilance. The Griffin is usually represented in literature and art as having the head, beak, talons and wings of an eagle, and the body and legs of a lion. The Regiment’s mascot is Corporal Falco Peregrinus Alert (Penny). She enlisted on 26th April 2006. The Peregrine Falcon has been a symbol of speed and power for centuries, and it is one of the swiftest and deadliest of the birds of prey. Known for swooping on it’s prey at speeds of up to 300 km/h, it’s mere appearance causes panic amongst potential victims. Not dissimilar to the Tiger ARH.
