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.
2000-2009
Air Force begins commitment to the Middle East Area of Operations
Major role in support of the aftermath of the Bali bombings and tsunamis
Operation SLIPPER
Air Vice-Marshal Julie Hammer - first female two star for Australian Defence Force
Air Chief Marshal Sir Angus Houston, AK, AC, AFC, serves as the Chief of Defence Force
Introduction of the Wedgetail
No 2 Squadron took delivery of the first two Boeing Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft at RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW.
Introduction of the Wedgetail
No 2 Squadron took delivery of the first two Boeing Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft at RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW. Under the project, the Air Force would receive six airframes at a cost of A$3.4 billion, to herald a new era of aerial surveillance for the Australian Defence Force.
Video & Images
2010-2019
Air Force introduced new aircraft to the fleet to enhance capability
Goodbye F-111
First Indigenous elder of the RAAF
General purpose uniforms (GPU)
Extensive humanitarian assistance by Air Force through disasters such as floods in Pakistan, MRH370 search, Bushfires and COVID-19 response
Operation OKRA
Deployment of F/A-18F Super Hornets, KC-30A, E-7A Wedgetail and Air Force personnel to Middle East to form the Air Task Group on Operation OKRA.
Operation OKRA
F/A-18F Super Hornets, KC-30A, E-7A Wedgetail and Air Force support personnel deployed to the Middle East to form the Air Task Group on Operation OKRA with the main contingent departing on this day. The mission of the Air Task Group was to contribute to international efforts to disrupt and degrade operations of the terrorist group known as Islamic State.