The origins of the Royal Australian Air Force extend back to the early days of aviation, and we have made important contributions to defence and peacekeeping initiatives across the globe ever since.
1940-1949
Air Force Nursing service established
Formation of the Women's Auxiliary Australian Air Force
Bombing of Darwin
Australia's first Indigenous fighter pilot
Introduction of helicopters to Air Force
First Australian aircraft attack on Nazi Germany
On this night, a single Handley Page Hampden bomber from No 455 Squadron, RAAF, took off from Swinderby in Lincolnshire to make the first attack by an Australian aircraft on Nazi Germany.
First Australian aircraft attack on Nazi Germany
On this night, a single Handley Page Hampden bomber from No 455 Squadron, RAAF, took off from Swinderby in Lincolnshire to make the first attack by an Australian aircraft on Nazi Germany with both the aircraft and aircrew returning safely. This attack was the beginning of Australia’s involvement in the strategic bombing campaign against Germany that would, over the next four years, involve over 10 000 members of the RAAF and claim the lives of almost 3500 Australian airmen.
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