Story: Asian conflicts

Canberra bomber in action, Malaya, 1958

Canberra bomber in action, Malaya, 1958

The first Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) aircraft to go into action in Malaya were the Vampire fighters of 14 Squadron. While the squadron was in Malaya it was re-equipped with Venom bombers. In 1958, 75 Squadron, flying Canberra bombers (pictured here), replaced 14 Squadron in Malaya. The RNZAF carried out bombing and strafing attacks against suspected guerrilla targets, along with actions to support ground troops. 41 Squadron was also deployed in Malaya, flying Bristol Freighters to supply Commonwealth forces.

Using this item

Air Force Museum
Reference: DPR SEA 228

This item has been provided for private study purposes (such as school projects, family and local history research) and any published reproduction (print or electronic) may infringe copyright law. It is the responsibility of the user of any material to obtain clearance from the copyright holder.

All images & media in this story

How to cite this page:

Ian McGibbon, 'Asian conflicts - Shift of focus to South-East Asia', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/34534/canberra-bomber-in-action-malaya-1958 (accessed 30 March 2024)

Story by Ian McGibbon, published 20 Jun 2012, updated 1 Feb 2016