Official Title:	Police Reserve Air Wing
Title in English:	Police Reserve Air Wing
Abbreviation:	PRAW

Narrative Summary:
The Rhodesian police service was called the British South African Police (BSAP), which also had a reserve force of part-time volunteers. The Police Reserve comprised men too old for national service, but many were veterans of World War Two. By the end of the 1960s, the Police Reserve had formed an Air Wing (PRAW). Members of the PRAW flew light civil aircraft, often owned by themselves or flying clubs, in support of the BSAP. As they often flew over areas close to home, they became familiar with the area and could spot anything unusual or suspicious - often indicating guerrilla activity. In 1979, the BSAP was renamed the Zimbabwe Republic Police.  

Key Dates:
196?		PRAW established
1979		BSAP renamed Zimbabwe Republic Police

 

Current Status:
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is presently reported to have an 'Air Wing', but has no known aircraft of its own.

Future Plans:
Attempts to acquire helicopters in mid-2001 were aborted, but it is expected that another attempt will be made.

National Insignia:
Not applicable - civil registered aircraft only.

Aircraft Serial Numbering System(s):
All aircraft used carried civil registrations.  

Unit/Base Aircraft Code System(s):
Coding system not used.

Aircraft Designation System(s):
None.

Current Aircraft Inventory:
None currently operated.

All-Time Aircraft Used List:
Click on aircraft type for more details

Aircraft Type	Quantity	Service Entry	Retirement	Origin
Cessna 172	some	1978	198?	Comores Republic

Other types may also shave been operated - further details are welcomed.

Aircraft NOT USED List:
No false reports known.

Main Headquarters:
Not known

Current Organisational Structure:
No details known.

Current Order of Battle:
Not applicable.

Historical Orders of Battle:
Not applicable.

All-Time Flying Units List:
Not applicable.

Current Air Bases:
No details known.

All-Time Air Bases Used List:
Numerous private airstrips and small civil airfields.