Libyan Detachment
Role: Search and Rescue/Transport

The Libyan Arab Republic Air Force (LARAF) established a detachment on Malta on 30 January 1975. The initial equipment was one Super Frelon, although the actual airframe deployed was replaced every three weeks by another. In Autumn 1978 the detachment was supplemented by three LARAF Alouette IIIs. The detachment ended in August 1980, when the Super Frelon was flown back home and the Alouettes left behind in a non-airworthy condition. The Alouettes were later donated to Malta in 1991. The LARAF helicopters were based alongside the AFM Helicopter Flight, but made refuelling stops at Luqa Airport.

Air Bases:

Base	Duration
St Patricks's Barracks, Luqa	1975 - early 1979
Luqa Airport	early 1979 - August 1980

Aircraft Used:

Type	Qty	Service	Badge	Example Serials
SA.321M Super Frelon	2	1975 - August 1980		LC151
Alouette III*	3	1978 - August 1980

* These helicopters later handed over to the AFM Helicopter Flight.

Unit Insignia:

Figure 1

References:

• World Air Power Journal No.9