New Air Force chief named

Air Force Orion. Photo / Supplied

Air Vice Marshal Peter Stockwell has been appointed the new chief of the air force, Defence Minister Wane Mapp announced today.

He replaces the current chief, Air Vice Marshall Graham Lintott.

AVM Stockwell has had extensive operational and command experience in his 38 years in the Air Force and had proved himself "a highly capable officer", Dr Mapp said.

He was awarded the Air Force Cross in 1995 for his "outstanding leadership" as commanding officer of 40 Squadron.

"He will make a valuable contribution at a crucial period for the air force, especially in the next two years as important new capability comes into service," Dr Mapp said.

A Defence Force white paper, released in November, outlined more investment in front-line personnel for all three branches of the military.

One of its proposals would see the Ohakea Air Force Base turned into New Zealand's major defence force hub, with $30 million to be spent on additional infrastructure at the base.

Dr Mapp said AVM Stockwell was "a proven strategic thinker" with the leadership skills and experience to carry out the changes required by the white paper's implementation.

"He is highly experienced in international relations and through the staff roles he has held in personnel and policy formation, he has gained an excellent grasp of the management requirements to make the necessary changes."

AVM Stockwell, who is currently serving as Commander Joint Forces at Trentham, takes up his three year term from May 1.

- NZPA