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  • 1930-1939

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.

1930-1939

Formation of the Wireless section

Proclamation of Cape Bruce, Antarctica

Introduction of the Wirraway aircraft

PM announces expeditionary forces to assist RAF

Flying Officer Charles "Dolf" Blamey Plane Crash
Display Date
03 Sep 1937

Introduction of the NA-16-1A aircraft

Introduction of the NA-16-1A aircraft and its maiden flight in Australia at Laverton. Although only an advanced trainer, orders for the Wirraway eventually ran to 755 aircraft, making this a key element in the development of Australian industry.

Flying Wirraway
03 Sep 1937

Introduction of the NA-16-1A aircraft

The NA-16-1A, undertook its maiden flight in Australia at Laverton. The aircraft was received in Australia in early August, to serve as a template for local production under licence. It was actually the second aircraft, often known as the NA-33, which went into production with the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation as the Wirraway (an Aboriginal word meaning "challenge"). Although only an advanced trainer, orders for the Wirraway eventually ran to 755 aircraft, making this a key element in the development of Australian industry. The locally-produced model flew for the first time on 27 March 1939, and when war began the RAAF had its first seven on strength.

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Flying Wirraway
Introduction of the NA-16 Wirraway Aircraft
Air Force 2021
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