New Zealand losing their A-4 Skyhawks

Hi there,
Time for a little bit of an international flavour. For those that don’t know, New Zealand is to lose its combat wing of TA/A-4K & TA/A-4G Skyhawks + trainers (MB339CB’s) due to defense dollars being reallowcated (to the navy and army). Whether this is a good idea or not, I would like to know. For myself being fascinated with our air force, I find it hugely disapointing, as do the Australians (unofficially of course !!!!) I believe that New Zealand pilots (especially air force pilots) are highly rated around the world, and when coming up against Aussie Hornets, have held there own more often than not including sinking of the odd Aussie Frigate. Although our Iroquois(s) and Hercules(s) are theoretically going to be upgraded or replaced, with our Orions(s), I think it is going to be a huge loss to our country and our closely located allies, not having a wing of Skyhawks but also showing that we find defence in our particular part of the world important. Also our Aermacchi MB339C advanced trainers are to be sold as well.

Are there any kiwi’s or indeed others who have an opinion on where our/this air force is heading ??? I would be very interested in hearing !!!!

Cheers
x( Concerned supporter of the RNZAF