Lindy Morrison and Royal Australian Air Force: Difference between pages

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{{Infobox Military Unit
{{pp-semi-protected|expiry=March 24, 2009|reason=of [[WP:BLP|biographies of living persons concerns]] relating to [[WP:OTRS|OTRS]] #2008032410002807}}
|unit_name=Royal Australian Air Force
'''Lindy Morrison''' (born '''Belinda Morrison''' on [[November 2]] [[1951]]) is an [[Australian]] musician originally from [[Queensland, Australia|Queensland]]. She is best known as the drummer in rock group [[The Go-Betweens]] from 1980 to 1989, replacing Tim Mustapha (1978–1979). She drummed on all the band's releases from their first LP in 1981 until the band's break up on [[December 26]] [[1989]]. She has also performed in Silent Figures, Shrew, [[Xero (band)|Xero]], The Four Gods, Deep Blue Sea, Cleopatra Wong (with [[Amanda Brown (musician)|Amanda Brown]]), and [[Tuff Monks]]. She now drums in The Rainy Season.
|image=[[Image:Ensign of the Royal Australian Air Force.svg|center|250px]]
|caption=[[Royal Australian Air Force Ensign|The RAAF Ensign]]
|start_date= [[31 March]] [[1921]]
|country=Australia
|allegiance=
|branch= [[Air Force]]
|type=
|role=
|fleet size= 538
|size=15,430 personnel (2006)
|command_structure=[[Australian Defence Force]]
|garrison=[[Canberra]]
|garrison_label=Air Force Headquarters
|nickname=
|patron=
|motto=''Per Ardua ad Astra'' ('Through Struggle to the Stars')
|colors=
|colors_label=
|march=
|mascot= [[Kangaroo]]
|equipment=
|equipment_label=
|battles=
|anniversaries=
|decorations=
|battle_honours=
<!-- Commanders -->
|commander1=[[Air Marshal]] [[Mark Binskin]]
|commander1_label=[[Chief of Air Force (Australia)|Chief of Air Force]]
|commander2=[[Air Vice Marshal]] Geoff Brown
|commander2_label=Deputy Chief of Air Force
|commander3=[[Air Vice Marshal]] Mark Skidmore
|commander3_label=[[RAAF Air Command|Air Commander Australia]]
|commander4=[[Warrant Officer of the Air Force]] Ray Woolnough
|commander4_label=Warrant Officer of the Air Force
|notable_commanders=
<!-- Insignia -->
|identification_symbol=[[Image:RAAF Badge.gif|100px|Royal Australian Air Force Badge]]
|identification_symbol_label=RAAF badge
|identification_symbol_2=[[Image:RAAF-Roundel.svg|100px|The RAAF roundel]]
|identification_symbol_2_label=RAAF roundel
|identification_symbol_3=[[Image:RAAF-Lowvis-Roundel.svg|100px|The Low visibility Roundel.]]
|identification_symbol_3_label=RAAF low visibility roundel
<!-- Aircraft -->
|aircraft_attack=
|aircraft_bomber=[[General Dynamics F-111|F-111]]
|aircraft_electronic=[[Boeing 737 AEW&C]]
|aircraft_fighter=[[F/A-18 Hornet]]
|aircraft_interceptor=
|aircraft_patrol=[[P-3 Orion|AP-3C Orion]]
|aircraft_recon=[[General Dynamics F-111|RF-111]]
|aircraft_trainer=[[Pilatus PC-9|PC-9]], [[BAE Hawk|Hawk 127]], [[Beechcraft Super King Air|B300]]
|aircraft_transport=[[C-130 Hercules]], [[de Havilland Canada DHC-4 Caribou|DHC-Caribou]], [[C-17 Globemaster III]], [[Boeing 737]], [[Bombardier Challenger 600|Challenger 600]]
}}
The '''Royal Australian Air Force''' ('''RAAF''') is the [[Air Force]] branch of the [[Australian Defence Force]]. The RAAF began in March 1912 as the '''Australian Flying Corps''' and became a fully independent Air Force in March 1921. Widely regarded as one of the most potent air forces in the Asia Pacific region, the RAAF has taken part in many of the 20th century's major conflicts including both World Wars, the [[Korean War]] and the [[Vietnam War]]. More recently the RAAF participated in the [[2003 invasion of Iraq]]. The motto on the RAAF's coat of arms is the [[Latin]] phrase ''[[Ad astra (phrase)|Per Ardua ad Astra]]'', which means "Through Struggle to the Stars",<ref name="RAAFBadge">{{cite web
| title =RAAF Badge and Roundel
| publisher =[[Department of Defence (Australia)|Australian Department of Defence]]
| url =http://www.defence.gov.au/RAAF/history/badge.htm
| accessdate = 2007-03-15 }}</ref> The [[Royal Air Force]] uses the same motto but translates it as "Through Adversity to the Stars".


==History==
Before her time as a musician Lindy was active in Brisbane, employed by the Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islanders Legal Service, where she worked with Aboriginal activist Denis Walker to protect the rights of Aboriginal people. <ref>"Goss a political biography" by Jamie Walker, Uni of QLD press 1995 p36 - 44.</ref><ref>"The Go-Betweens" By David Nichols, Allen and Unwin 1997 p65</ref><ref> [http://bushtelegraph.wordpress.com/recent/#comment-3305 The Bush Telegraph, Entries 9&12]</ref><ref>[http://www.theage.com.au/news/Election-2004/She-bangs-the-drum-for-politics/2004/10/05/1096949102387.html The Age October 6, 2004]</ref>
{{main|History of the Royal Australian Air Force}}
===World War I===
Soon after the outbreak of [[World War I]] in 1914, the Australian Flying Corps sent aircraft to assist in capturing German colonies in what is now north-west [[New Guinea]]. These colonies surrendered quickly however, before the planes were even unpacked. The first operational flights did not occur until [[May 27]], [[1915]], when the [[Mesopotamian Half Flight]] was called upon to assist the [[British Indian Army|Indian Army]] in protecting British oil interests in what is now [[Iraq]]. The Corps later saw action in [[Egypt]], [[Palestine]] and on the [[Western Front]] throughout the remainder of [[World War I]]. By the end of the war, four squadrons had seen active service.


AFC World War I [[flying ace]]s include the following pilots:
She was later part of the Popular Theatre Troupe<ref>"The Go-Betweens" By David Nichols, Allen and Unwin 1997 p65</ref><ref>[http://www.theage.com.au/news/Election-2004/She-bangs-the-drum-for-politics/2004/10/05/1096949102387.html The Age October 6, 2004]</ref> who protested against the [[Joh Bjelke-Petersen|Bjelke-Petersen]] led [[National Party of Australia|National Party]] government performing for free in public their sharply satirical political street theatre<ref>[http://bushtelegraph.wordpress.com/recent/#comment-3305 The Bush Telegraph, Entries 14&15 ]</ref> during a time when life in Queensland was felt to be strongly constrained by the government, select business groups, and political interests.<ref>"No! No! to Joh" by Pete Thomas published by Building Workers industrial Union (Queensland Branch) dated February 1979.</ref>
[[Image:AWM P02163.016.jpg|200px|thumb|left|[[Serny]], [[France]], November 1918. A score board recording the claims for enemy aircraft destroyed by [[No. 80 Wing RAF]] from July-November 1918. The squadrons listed include [[No. 2 Squadron RAAF|No. 2 Squadron, Australian Flying Corps]] and [[No. 4 Squadron RAAF|No. 4 Squadron, AFC]]. The other columns are headed "In Flames", "Crashed", "O.O.C." (Out of Control), "Driven Down" and "Balloons Destroyed"."]]
* [[Arthur Henry Cobby|A. H. "Harry" Cobby]] (29)
* [[Elwyn King]] (26)
* [[Alexander Pentland]] (23)
* [[Edgar McCloughry]] (21)
* [[Richard Minifie]] (21)
* [[Edgar Johnston]] (20)
* [[Andrew Cowper]] (19)
* [[Cedric Howell]] (19)
* [[Fred Holliday (World War I)|Fred Holliday]] (17)
* [[Allan Hepburn]] (16)
* [[Francis Ryan Smith]] (16)
* [[John Rutherford Gordon]] (15)
* [[Roy Cecil Phillipps]] (15)


===World War II===
Morrison currently resides in [[Sydney]] with her daughter Lucinda<ref>[http://www.theage.com.au/news/Election-2004/She-bangs-the-drum-for-politics/2004/10/05/1096949102387.html The Age October 6, 2004]</ref>. She works in community music [for example, the Wataboshi Festival <ref>[https://mail.cofa.unsw.edu.au/pipermail/master-art-admin/2003-May/pdfmnqtR20H13.pdf ACE magazine, Issue 27 April 2003 p17]</ref>]. One of her part time jobs is as a community musician where she directs a group of intellectually disabled musicians known as The Junction House Band. <ref>[http://www.smh.com.au/news/tv-reviews/storyline-australia-junction-house-blues/2007/01/03/1167777142186.html The Sydney Morning Herald TV reviews]</ref><ref>"Junction House blues" [videorecording]. Academy Library, University of NSW@ADFA Local id: 346809 Shelf: av dvd ML3534 .J86 2007 and University of Canberra - University of Canberra Library Shelf: <BRN375844>
====Europe and the Mediterranean====
</ref>
In 1939, just after the start of [[World War II]], Australia joined the [[Empire Air Training Scheme]], under which flight crews received basic training in Australia before travelling to [[Canada]] for advanced training. A total of 19 RAAF bomber, fighter, reconnaissance and other squadrons served initially in [[United Kingdom|Britain]], and/or with the [[Desert Air Force]], in [[North Africa]] and the [[Mediterranean]]. About nine per cent of the personnel who served under British RAF commands in Europe and the Mediterranean were RAAF personnel. [http://www.ww2australia.gov.au/raaf/explore.html]


With British manufacturing targeted by the ''[[Luftwaffe]]'', the Australian government created the [[Government Aircraft Factory|Department of Aircraft Production]] (DAP; later known as the Government Aircraft Factory) to supply Commonwealth air forces and the RAAF was eventually provided with large numbers of locally-built versions of British designs like the [[Bristol Beaufort|DAP Beaufort]] [[torpedo bomber]].
She also serves as a board member for the Phonographic Performance Company of Australia<ref>[http://www.ppca.com.au/more_info.htm Phonographic Performance Company of Australia Website "About Us"]</ref> where she serves as a representative of registered Australian recording artists (or 'artist director', making contributions to changes in policy to benefit recording artists<ref>"High Voltage Rock 'n Roll" by Christie Eliezer Omnibus Press 2007 first edition p129 </ref>)
, and national casework coordinator of the benevolent society Support Act Ltd. <ref>[http://www.ppca.com.au/more_info.htm Phonographic Performance Company of Australia Website "About Us"]</ref> <ref>[http://www.supportact.com.au/contacts.shtml Support Act Limited Contacts Page]</ref> She has also ventured into politics as an [[Australian Democrats]] candidate. She failed to win in the Federal seat of Wentworth<ref>[http://results.aec.gov.au/12246/results/HouseDivisionFirstPrefs-12246-152.htm Official AEC (House of Reps) Federal seat of Wentworth, 2004 election result]</ref><ref>[http://www.theage.com.au/news/Election-2004/She-bangs-the-drum-for-politics/2004/10/05/1096949102387.html The Age October 6, 2004]</ref> and in the [[New South Wales]] (seat of Coogee)<ref>[http://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/resources/nswelectionsanalysis/2003/Coogee.htm NSW parliament, Official election results, Coogee 2003]</ref><ref>[http://www.theage.com.au/news/Election-2004/She-bangs-the-drum-for-politics/2004/10/05/1096949102387.html The Age October 6, 2004]</ref>state elections.


In the [[European Theatre of World War II]], RAAF personnel were especially notable in [[RAF Bomber Command]]: they represented two percent of all RAAF personnel during the war, but accounted for 23% of the total number killed in action. This statistic is further illustrated by the fact that [[No. 460 Squadron RAAF]], mostly flying [[Avro Lancaster]]s, had an official establishment of about 200 aircrew and yet had 1,018 combat deaths. The squadron was therefore effectively wiped out five times over.
Lindy is also the sole author of a short workbook entitled "Australian women in rock and pop music" and made a 1 hour duration video to accompany it. Intended as student material it is housed in the National Library of Australia.<ref>[http://nla.gov.au/nla.pic-an12117055 NLofA ISBN 1875856730 (video) 1875856765 (workbook)]</ref> Interviewees for the video include Kylie Minogue, Tina Arena and Wendy Matthews.


====Pacific War====
Lindy was also the artist in residence at South Sydney Youth Service (1998 - 2001) and was employed by TAFE as the head tutor for the music course run by SSYS.<ref>[https://www.det.nsw.edu.au/eas/youth/publica/nextstep.doc Community Grants Program publication 'Next Step', November 2000, p9.]</ref> She also teaches contracts and copyright and music business modules at TAFE.<ref>[http://www.theage.com.au/news/Election-2004/She-bangs-the-drum-for-politics/2004/10/05/1096949102387.html The Age, October 6, 2004]</ref>
[[Image:BrewsterBuffalosMkIRAAFSingaporeOctober1941.jpg|thumb|[[Brewster Buffalo]] fighters, flown by many RAAF fighter pilots in the [[Battle of Malaya|Malayan]], [[Battle of Singapore|Singapore]] and [[Netherlands East Indies|Dutch East Indies campaigns]], as seen here being inspected at [[Sembawang Airbase|RAF Sembawang]], Singapore.]]
The beginning of the [[Pacific War]] &mdash; and the rapid advance of [[Empire of Japan|Japan]]ese forces &mdash; threatened the Australian mainland for the first time. The RAAF was quite unprepared for the emergency, and initially had negligible forces available for service in the Pacific.


In 1941 and early 1942, many RAAF airmen, including [[No. 21 Squadron RAAF|21]] and [[No. 453 Squadron RAAF|453 Squadron]]s, saw action with the [[Far East Air Force (Royal Air Force)|RAF Far East Command]] in the [[Battle of Malaya|Malayan]], [[Battle of Singapore|Singapore]] and [[Netherlands East Indies|Dutch East Indies campaigns]]. Allied fighter pilots, in particular, performed well in the campaign, despite being outnumbered and the fact that many were allocated sub-standard examples of the [[Brewster Buffalo]].
Lindy was appointed a Lifetime Honorary Member of the Music Council of Australia in 2007. For services as Board member and one who "who gave great assistance to community music initiatives and guidance in issues around performers' rights".<ref>[http://www.mca.org.au/web/content/view/130/6 Music Council of Australia, About the Council]</ref>


The devastating [[Bombing of Darwin (February 1942)‎|air raids on Darwin]] on [[19 February]] [[1942]] drove the point home. Some RAAF squadrons were transferred from the [[northern hemisphere]] &mdash; although a substantial number remained there until the end of the war. Shortages of fighter and [[close air support|ground attack]] planes led to the acquisition of [[United States|US]]-built [[Curtiss P-40|P-40]] Kittyhawks and the rapid design and manufacture of the first Australian fighter, the [[CAC Boomerang]]. RAAF Kittyhawks came to play a crucial role in the [[New Guinea]] and [[Solomon Islands]] campaigns, especially in operations like the [[Battle of Milne Bay]]. As a response to a possible Japanese chemical warfare threat the RAAF imported hundreds of thousands of chemical weapons into Australia. [http://www.mustardgas.org].
Audio of Lindy talking about her role / experiences / observations in the civil disobedience movement and in protecting the rights of Aboriginal people as well as the general social / political environment that existed in Brisbane in the late 1970s can be heard from [http://speechification.com/2007/12/13/pig-city/ speechification.com]in an interview record for the ABC Radio National program "Pig City" (at about 23 minutes into the program material, and several times later in that program material) and is highly recommended as background material to her life.


In the [[Battle of the Bismarck Sea]], imported [[Bristol Beaufighter]]s proved to be highly effective ground attack and maritime strike aircraft. Beaufighters were later made locally by the DAP. Although it was much bigger than Japanese fighters, the Beaufighter had the speed to outrun them.
Audio of Lindy recorded in a phone interview with radio station 3RRR reflecting on her time in the band 'The Go-betweens' shortly after the death of band member Grant Mc Lennan and some information about the band in general, can be heard at [http://www.rrr.org.au/archive.php?archive=audio Three RRR audio archive].


The RAAF's [[heavy bomber]] force was predominantly comprised of 287 [[B-24 Liberator]]s, which could bomb Japanese targets as far away as [[Borneo]] and the [[Philippines]] from airfields in Australia and New Guinea.
Since November 2007, Morrison has been a member of [[Rainy Season (band) | The Rainy Season]], a five piece band fronted by [[Jed Brown]], and including [[Peter Jones (musician) | Peter Jones]] (ex [[Cosmic Psychos]]), [[Clyde Bramley]], and fellow former Go Between [[Amanda Brown]].


By late 1945, the RAAF had received or ordered about 500 [[P-51 Mustang]]s, for fighter/ground attack purposes. The [[Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation]] initially assembled US-made Mustangs, but later manufactured most of those used. The RAAF's main operational formation, the [[Australian First Tactical Air Force|First Tactical Air Force]], comprised more than 18,000 personnel and 20 squadrons; it had taken part in the [[Philippines]] and [[Borneo]] campaigns and was scheduled to participate in the invasion of the Japanese mainland, [[Operation Downfall]]. So too were the RAAF bomber squadrons in Europe, as part of the proposed [[Tiger Force (air)|Tiger Force]]. However, the war was brought to a sudden end by the US [[Atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki|nuclear attack]]s on Japan. As a result of the Empire Air Training Scheme, about 20,000 Australian personnel had served with other Commonwealth air forces in Europe during World War II. A total of 216,900 men and women served in the RAAF, of whom 11,061 were killed in action.
==Notes==

{{reflist|2}}
===Service since 1945===
{{The Go-Betweens}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Morrison, Lindy}}
In the '''[[Korean War]]''', Mustangs from [[No. 77 Squadron RAAF|No. 77 Squadron]] (77 Sqn), stationed in Japan with the [[British Commonwealth Occupation Force]], were among the first [[United Nations]] aircraft to be deployed, in ground support, combat air patrol, and escort missions. When the UN planes were confronted by [[Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-15|MiG-15]] jet fighters, 77 Sqn acquired [[Gloster Meteor]]s, which enabled some success against the [[Soviet]] pilots flying for [[North Korea]]. However the MiGs were superior aircraft and the Meteors were relegated to ground support missions, as the North Koreans gained experience. The air force also operated transport aircraft during the conflict.
[[Category:Australian musicians]]

[[Category:1951 births]]
[[Image:b707-368c.royalausaf.arp.jpg|thumb|Boeing 707 of the RAAF]]
[[Category:Living people]]

During the '''[[Vietnam War]]''', from 1966-72, the RAAF contributed squadrons of Caribou [[STOL]] transport aircraft ([[No. 35 Squadron RAAF|No. 35 Squadron]]), [[UH-1 Iroquois]] helicopters ([[No. 9 Squadron RAAF|No. 9 Squadron]]) and [[English Electric Canberra]] bombers ([[No. 2 Squadron RAAF|No. 2 Squadron]]). The Canberras flew a large number of bombing [[sortie]]s, and two were lost. One went missing during a bombing raid, and neither the crew nor the aircraft has ever been located. The other was shot down by a [[surface to air missile]], although both crew were rescued. RAAF transport aircraft also supported [[anti-communist]] ground forces. The UH-1 helicopters were used in many roles including Dustoff ([[medical evacuation]]) and Bushranger Gunships for armed support.

Military airlifts were conducted for a number of purposes in the intervening decades, such as the peacekeeping operations in [[East Timor]] from 1999. Australia's combat aircraft were not used again in combat until the '''[[Operation Falconer|Iraq War]]''' in 2003, when F/A-18s from [[No. 75 Squadron RAAF|No. 75 Squadron]] operated in the escort and ground attack roles.

== Ranks and uniform ==
{{Main article|Ranks of the RAAF}}
The RAAF uses RAF-derived ranks for both officers and other ranks, with the following exceptions:
* the RAAF does not use "Technician" ranks
* non-commissioned aircrew do not wear an eagle above their chevrons
* the insignia for Leading Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman (LAC/W) is a single chevron, rather than a two-bladed propeller
* there is no Senior Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman (SAC) rank.
Unlike their British, Canadian and New Zealand counterparts, they do not wear a blue-grey uniform. <small>AUSTRALIA</small> on slip-on rank [[epaulette]]s or otherwise known as (SRI) 'Soft Rank Insignia' and are worn on the shoulders of the service dress uniform. When not in the service dress or "Ceremonial" uniform, RAAF personnel wear the [[Auscam]] [[DPCU]], which has replaced the old working dress.

==Roundel==
The current version of the RAAF Roundel was formally adopted on the 2nd of July, 1956. The Roundel exists of a white inner circle with a [[Red Kangaroo]] surrounded by a royal blue circle. The kangaroo faces left, except when used on aircraft or vehicles, when the kangaroo should always face the front.

Originally, the Air Force used the existing red, white and blue Roundel of the [[Royal Air Force]]. However, during [[World War II]], the inner red circle was removed after a No. 11 Squadron Catalina was mistaken for a Japanese aircraft by a US Navy Wildcat in the Pacific Theatre.<ref name="RAAFBadge"/>

After the war, a range of options were proposed, including the Southern Cross, a boomerang, a sprig of wattle and the red kangaroo.

==Royal Australian Air Force Badge==
The RAAF badge was accepted by the [[Chester Herald]] in 1939. The badge is composed of the Imperial Crown mounted on a circle featuring the words Royal Australian Air Force, beneath which scroll work displays the Latin motto [[Per Ardua Ad Astra]]. Surmounting the badge is a [[wedge-tailed eagle]]. Per Ardua Ad Astra is attributed with the meaning “Through Struggle to the Stars” and is from [[Henry Rider Haggard|Sir Henry Rider Haggard's]] novel [[The People of the Mist]]. [http://www.defence.gov.au/raaf/aboutus/raafbadge.htm]

==Current strength==
===Aircraft===
''See also: [[Current Royal Australian Air Force Aircraft|Current RAAF Aircraft]]''

As of 2007, the following aircraft are operated by the RAAF:

{{Standard table|0}}
! style="text-align: left; background: #aacccc;"|Aircraft
! style="text-align: left; background: #aacccc;"|Origin
! style="text-align: left; background: #aacccc;"|Type
! style="text-align: left; background: #aacccc;"|Versions
! style="text-align: left; background: #aacccc;"|In service<ref name="awst_20070115">"World Military Aircraft Inventory", Aerospace Source Book 2007, ''[[Aviation Week & Space Technology]]'', [[January 15]] [[2007]].</ref><ref>''[http://www.defence.gov.au/budget/05-06/dar/downloads/2005-2006_Defence_DAR_03_v1ch2.pdf 2005-06 Defence Annual Report]'' Page 134</ref><ref>[http://www.adf-serials.com/2a97.shtml RAAF A97 Lockheed C-130A/E/H/J Hercules- list] retrieved [[2007]]-[[08-30]].</ref>
! style="text-align: left; background: #aacccc;"|Notes
|-----
| [[BAE Systems Hawk]]
| {{UK}}
| Lead-in fighter trainer
| Hawk 127
| 33
| fighter jet conversion trainer.
|-----
| [[Beechcraft Super King Air]]
| {{USA}}
| Navigational trainer
| B300
| 8
|
|-----
| [[Boeing Business Jet]]
| {{USA}}
| VIP transport
| [[Boeing Business Jet|737-700 BBJ]]
| 2
| Long term lease, transport for the Prime Minister, Queen and Distinguished Guests.
|-----
| [[C-17 Globemaster III|Boeing C-17 Globemaster III]]
| {{USA}}
| Transport
| [[C-17 Globemaster III|C-17]]
| 4
| All aircraft were delivered by January 2008<ref>[http://www.milaviapress.com/orbat/australia/index.php Australian military aviation OrBat]</ref>.
|-----
| [[Bombardier Challenger 600]]
| {{CAN}}
| VIP transport
| CL 604
| 3
|
|-----
| [[de Havilland Canada DHC-4 Caribou]]
| {{CAN}}
| Transport
| [[DHC-4]]
| 14
| The DHC-4 will be retired in 2009.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.australianaviation.com.au/aaexpress.htm|title=Australian Aviation Express. Issue 241.|date=2008-09-29|publisher=Phantom Media|accessdate=2008-09-29}}</ref>
|-----
| [[General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark]]
| {{USA}}
| Strike
| '''F-111 total''' <br> F-111C <br> RF-111C
| '''21''' <br> 17 <br> 4
| Mixture of the original long-range F-111C type, RF-111C reconnaissance variants, and ex-USAF F-111A (upgraded to most of the C specifications) and F-111G attrition replacements. These aircraft are due to be retired in 2010. The [[F/A-18E/F Super Hornet|F/A-18F]] has been selected as an interim replacement. All F-111G Aircraft were retired in September 2007.
|-----
| [[Lockheed C-130 Hercules]]
| {{USA}}
| Transport
| '''C-130 total''' <br> C-130H <br> C-130J-30
| '''20''' <br> 8 <br> 12
|
|-----
| [[Lockheed P-3 Orion]]
| {{USA}}
| Maritime patrol/strike
| '''P-3 total''' <br> AP-3C
| 21 <br> 18
| All aircraft to withdrawn by 2018. Will probably be replaced by [[Boeing]] [[P-8 Poseidon]]
|-----
| [[McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet]]
| {{USA}} <br> {{AUS}}
| Fighter/attack
| '''F/A-18 total''' <br> F/A-18A <br> F/A-18B
| '''71''' <br> 54 <br> 17
| Built in Australia under licence from [[McDonnell Douglas]]. The F/A-18 fleet has been the subject of various upgrades since it entered service in the 1980s and remains capable, but fatigue issues mean that it may not remain a viable front-line air defence option until the planned retirement date of 2015, although this is being mitigated through a centre barrel replacement program{{Fact|date=November 2007}}. They are expected to be replaced by 100 [[F-35 Lightning II]].
|-----
| [[Pilatus PC-9]]
| {{SUI}} <br> {{AUS}}
| Advanced trainer
| [[PC-9]]
| 65
| Produced under licence in Australia by [[de Havilland Australia]].
|-----
|
|
|'''Total'''
|Fighters/ Attack Aircraft
----
Trainers
----
Transport(Inc. [[VIP]]
|111
----
130
----
43
|Trainers includes the 24 PAC CT/4 basic trainers
|}
In addition, 24 [[PAC CT/4]] basic trainers, better known as the "Plastic Parrot", are owned and operated by [[BAE Systems]] for primary training.

===Small arms===
* [[Browning Hi-Power|L9A1/L9A3 Self Loading Pistol (Browning Hi-Power)]]
* [[Glock pistol|Glock 19 Jet Aircrew Pistol]]
* [[Heckler & Koch MP5|Heckler & Koch MP5 Sub-Machine Gun]]
* [[Remington 870|Remington 870 shotgun]]
* [[Steyr AUG|F88 Austeyr rifle (Steyr AUG)]]
* [[Accuracy International Arctic Warfare|SR-98 sniper rifle]]
* [[FN Minimi|F89 Light Support Weapon (Minimi)]]
* [[FN MAG|MAG58 General Service Machine Gun]]
* [[M203 grenade launcher]]<ref>[http://www.airforce.gov.au/adg/index.htm RAAF Airfield Defence Guard webpage] Retrieved: [[June 27]] [[2008]].</ref>

===Current flying squadrons===
{{RAAF}}
{{main|Structure of the RAAF}}

*[[No. 1 Squadron RAAF|No. 1 Squadron]] - General Dynamics F-111 (Ground Attack)
*[[No. 2 Squadron RAAF|No. 2 Squadron]] - Boeing Wedgetail (AEW&C) (operational 2009)
*[[No. 3 Squadron RAAF|No. 3 Squadron]] - McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet (Air Defence)
*[[No. 6 Squadron RAAF|No. 6 Squadron]] - General Dynamics F-111 (Training/Ground Attack)
*[[No. 10 Squadron RAAF|No. 10 Squadron]] - Lockheed P-3C Orion (Maritime Patrol)
*[[No. 11 Squadron RAAF|No. 11 Squadron]] - Lockheed P-3C Orion (Maritime Patrol)
*[[No. 33 Squadron RAAF|No. 33 Squadron]] - To be equipped with [[Airbus A330 MRTT|KC-30B Multi-Role Tanker Transports]]
*[[No. 34 Squadron RAAF|No. 34 Squadron]] - Boeing 737, Bombardier Challenger 604 (Transport)
*[[No. 36 Squadron RAAF|No. 36 Squadron]] - Boeing Globemaster III (Transport)
*[[No. 37 Squadron RAAF|No. 37 Squadron]] - Lockheed C-130H/C-130J-30 Hercules (Transport)
*[[No. 38 Squadron RAAF|No. 38 Squadron]] - De Havilland Canada DHC-4 Caribou (Transport)
*[[No. 75 Squadron RAAF|No. 75 Squadron]] - McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet (Air Defence)
*[[No. 76 Squadron RAAF|No. 76 Squadron]] - BAE Systems Hawk 127 (Lead-in Fighter Training/Close Support)
*[[No. 77 Squadron RAAF|No. 77 Squadron]] - McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet (Air Defence)
*[[No. 79 Squadron RAAF|No. 79 Squadron]] - BAE Systems Hawk 127 (Hawk Conversion/Close Support)
*[[No. 292 Squadron RAAF|No. 292 Squadron]] - Lockheed P-3C Orion (Training/Maritime Patrol)
*[[No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit RAAF|No. 2 OCU]] - McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet (Training & Type Conversion)
*[[No. 2 Flying Training School RAAF|No. 2 FTS]] - Pilatus PC9/A (Advanced Training)
[[Image:CTOL.jpg|thumb|The F-35 Lightning II takes to the air for the first time in late 2006]]

==Future equipment==
This list includes aircraft on order or a requirement which has been identified.
* Up to 100 [[Lockheed Martin]] [[F-35 Lightning II|F-35A Lightning II]] ([[CTOL]] variant) &mdash; are scheduled to be delivered from 2013.
* 24 Boeing [[F/A-18E/F Super Hornet|F/A-18F Super Hornets]]. On [[March 6]] [[2007]], Defence Minister [[Brendon Nelson]] announced that the Australian Government had purchased 24 F/A-18F aircraft to reduce the risk of a gap in strike capability, between the retirement of the F-111 in 2010 and delivery of the F-35A. .[http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/NelsonMintpl.cfm?CurrentId=6436]
* Six [[Boeing]] [[Project Wedgetail]] [[Airborne Early Warning|AEW&C]] aircraft, including another single aircraft optioned.
* Five [[Airbus]] [[Airbus A330 MRTT|KC-30B Multi-Role Tanker Transport]]s &mdash; to replace the dated Boeing 707s in [[aerial refueling]] and strategic transport roles.
* Maritime patrol aircraft to replace [[P-3 Orion|AP-3C Orions]]. Australia is participating in the development of the [[P-8 Poseidon]] to fill this role, but has not committed to purchase the aircraft.

===Procurement Review===
The new [[Australian Labor Party|Labor]] government made a pledge to review the procurement of both the F-35 Lightning and the F/A-18F Super Hornet as part of a review of overall defence procurement. The new defence minister [[Joel Fitzgibbon]] made clear that "no option would be ruled out". This includes the possibility of purchasing the Lockheed Martin [[F-22 Raptor]]<ref>[http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/01/10/220724/australia-to-weigh-lockheed-martin-f-22-against-russian-fighters.htm Govindasamy, Siva. "Australia to weigh Lockheed Martin F-22 against Russian fighters."] Reed Business Information, Flightglobal.com, [[10 January]] [[2008]]. Retrieved: [[28 February]] [[2008]].</ref>. On 17 March 2008 defence minister [[Joel Fitzgibbon]] confirmed that Australia would purchase 24 F/A-18F Super Hornets. <ref>[http://www.janes.com/news/defence/air/jdw/jdw080318_1_n.shtml. Kerr, Julian. "Australian government commits to Super Hornet acquisition."] Janes Information Group, janes.com, [[18 March]] [[2008]]. Retrieved: [[1 April]] [[2008]].</ref>

However, the Howard government ruled out purchase of the F-22, on the grounds that it is unlikely to be released for export, and does not have sufficient ground/maritime strike capacity. This assessment was supported by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, a non-partisan, government-funded think-tank, which claimed that the F-22 "has insufficient multi-role capability at too high a price."

The US Congress upheld the ban on F-22 Raptor foreign sales during a joint conference on 27 September 2006. After talks in Washington in December 2006, the US DoD reported the F-22 would not be available for foreign sale.

Following the victory of the Australian Labor Party in the 2007 national election, the new government ordered a review of plans to procure the F-35 and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. This review will include an evaluation of the F-22's suitability for Australia; moreover, Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon has stated: "I intend to pursue American politicians for access to the Raptor". In February 2008, U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said he had no objection to sale of the Raptor to Australia, but Congress would have to change the law.

In August 2008 reports in the press indicated that the RAAF is now also considering the purchase of the E/A-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft to compliment the new F model purchase. Up to 6 Growlers are being considered.

==Gallery of RAAF Aircraft==
<center><gallery>
Image:Australian air force 707-368C (code A20-261) Perth Internatinal Airport Australia.jpg |A RAAF Boeing 707-368C at Perth international airport.
Image:Twinhornetsd.JPG|F/A-18 Hornets of the Royal Australian Air Force.
Image:RAAF_F111.jpg|An Australian F-111
Image:JPAU30JUL04CW009.JPG|A RAAF C-130J (front) and a RNZAF P-3K Orion (rear)
Image:BAe Hawk Mk127 76 Sqn RAAF 1.jpg|BAe Hawk Mk.127 lead-in fighter of No. 76 Squadron RAAF in special colour-scheme with "panther" motif.
Image:RAAF BBJ 3.jpg|One of two Boeing Business Jets, which are used by the Prime Minister, the Queen and the Governor General.
Image:RAAF C-17.jpg|One of the RAAF's C-17 Globemasters
</gallery></center>

==See also==
{{commonscat|Royal Australian Air Force}}
*[[List of aircraft of the RAAF]]
*[[List of Royal Australian Air Force aircraft squadrons]]
*[[List of Royal Australian Air Force independent aircraft flights]]
*[[List of Australian air force bases]]
*[[List of Australian military memorials]]
*[[Australian Air Traffic Control]]
*[[Airfield Defence Guards]]
*[[Australian Air Force Cadets]]
*[[Royal Australian Air Force Memorial, Canberra]]
*[[Queens Gardens, Brisbane|Royal Australian Air Force Memorial, Brisbane]]
*[[RAAF Museum]]
*[[Australian Defence Force ranks and insignia]]
*[[Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft]]
*[[List of air forces]]

==References==
<!--See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Footnotes for an explanation of how to generate footnotes using the <ref(erences/)> tags-->
{{reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.raaf.gov.au RAAF official site]
* [http://www.airforce.gov.au/airpower/html/publications/publications_catalogue_doctrine.htm RAAF Air Power Doctrine]
* [http://www.adf-serials.com/ ADF Aircraft Serial Number]

{{RAAF Aircraft}}
{{Australian Defence Force}}

[[Category:Royal Australian Air Force|*]]
[[Category:Air forces by country|Australia]]
[[Category:Military units and formations established in 1921]]
[[Category:Organisations based in Australia with royal patronage]]

[[cs:Royal Australian Air Force]]
[[de:Royal Australian Air Force]]
[[es:Real Fuerza Aérea Australiana]]
[[fr:Royal Australian Air Force]]
[[id:Royal Australian Air Force]]
[[it:Royal Australian Air Force]]
[[ms:Tentera Udara Diraja Australia]]
[[nl:Royal Australian Air Force]]
[[ja:オーストラリア空軍]]
[[no:Royal Australian Air Force]]
[[pl:Royal Australian Air Force]]
[[ru:Королевские военно-воздушные силы Австралии]]

Revision as of 19:09, 10 October 2008

Royal Australian Air Force
The RAAF Ensign
Founded31 March 1921
CountryAustralia
BranchAir Force
Size15,430 personnel (2006)
Part ofAustralian Defence Force
Air Force HeadquartersCanberra
Motto(s)Per Ardua ad Astra ('Through Struggle to the Stars')
Mascot(s)Kangaroo
Commanders
Chief of Air ForceAir Marshal Mark Binskin
Deputy Chief of Air ForceAir Vice Marshal Geoff Brown
Air Commander AustraliaAir Vice Marshal Mark Skidmore
Warrant Officer of the Air ForceWarrant Officer of the Air Force Ray Woolnough
Insignia
RAAF badgeRoyal Australian Air Force Badge
RAAF roundelThe RAAF roundel
RAAF low visibility roundelThe Low visibility Roundel.
Aircraft flown
BomberF-111
Electronic
warfare		Boeing 737 AEW&C
FighterF/A-18 Hornet
PatrolAP-3C Orion
ReconnaissanceRF-111
TrainerPC-9, Hawk 127, B300
TransportC-130 Hercules, DHC-Caribou, C-17 Globemaster III, Boeing 737, Challenger 600

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) is the Air Force branch of the Australian Defence Force. The RAAF began in March 1912 as the Australian Flying Corps and became a fully independent Air Force in March 1921. Widely regarded as one of the most potent air forces in the Asia Pacific region, the RAAF has taken part in many of the 20th century's major conflicts including both World Wars, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. More recently the RAAF participated in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. The motto on the RAAF's coat of arms is the Latin phrase Per Ardua ad Astra, which means "Through Struggle to the Stars",[1] The Royal Air Force uses the same motto but translates it as "Through Adversity to the Stars".

History

Main article: History of the Royal Australian Air Force

World War I

Soon after the outbreak of World War I in 1914, the Australian Flying Corps sent aircraft to assist in capturing German colonies in what is now north-west New Guinea. These colonies surrendered quickly however, before the planes were even unpacked. The first operational flights did not occur until May 27, 1915, when the Mesopotamian Half Flight was called upon to assist the Indian Army in protecting British oil interests in what is now Iraq. The Corps later saw action in Egypt, Palestine and on the Western Front throughout the remainder of World War I. By the end of the war, four squadrons had seen active service.

AFC World War I flying aces include the following pilots:

Serny, France, November 1918. A score board recording the claims for enemy aircraft destroyed by No. 80 Wing RAF from July-November 1918. The squadrons listed include No. 2 Squadron, Australian Flying Corps and No. 4 Squadron, AFC. The other columns are headed "In Flames", "Crashed", "O.O.C." (Out of Control), "Driven Down" and "Balloons Destroyed"."

World War II

Europe and the Mediterranean

In 1939, just after the start of World War II, Australia joined the Empire Air Training Scheme, under which flight crews received basic training in Australia before travelling to Canada for advanced training. A total of 19 RAAF bomber, fighter, reconnaissance and other squadrons served initially in Britain, and/or with the Desert Air Force, in North Africa and the Mediterranean. About nine per cent of the personnel who served under British RAF commands in Europe and the Mediterranean were RAAF personnel. [1]

With British manufacturing targeted by the Luftwaffe, the Australian government created the Department of Aircraft Production (DAP; later known as the Government Aircraft Factory) to supply Commonwealth air forces and the RAAF was eventually provided with large numbers of locally-built versions of British designs like the DAP Beaufort torpedo bomber.

In the European Theatre of World War II, RAAF personnel were especially notable in RAF Bomber Command: they represented two percent of all RAAF personnel during the war, but accounted for 23% of the total number killed in action. This statistic is further illustrated by the fact that No. 460 Squadron RAAF, mostly flying Avro Lancasters, had an official establishment of about 200 aircrew and yet had 1,018 combat deaths. The squadron was therefore effectively wiped out five times over.

Pacific War

Brewster Buffalo fighters, flown by many RAAF fighter pilots in the Malayan, Singapore and Dutch East Indies campaigns, as seen here being inspected at RAF Sembawang, Singapore.

The beginning of the Pacific War — and the rapid advance of Japanese forces — threatened the Australian mainland for the first time. The RAAF was quite unprepared for the emergency, and initially had negligible forces available for service in the Pacific.

In 1941 and early 1942, many RAAF airmen, including 21 and 453 Squadrons, saw action with the RAF Far East Command in the Malayan, Singapore and Dutch East Indies campaigns. Allied fighter pilots, in particular, performed well in the campaign, despite being outnumbered and the fact that many were allocated sub-standard examples of the Brewster Buffalo.

The devastating air raids on Darwin on 19 February 1942 drove the point home. Some RAAF squadrons were transferred from the northern hemisphere — although a substantial number remained there until the end of the war. Shortages of fighter and ground attack planes led to the acquisition of US-built P-40 Kittyhawks and the rapid design and manufacture of the first Australian fighter, the CAC Boomerang. RAAF Kittyhawks came to play a crucial role in the New Guinea and Solomon Islands campaigns, especially in operations like the Battle of Milne Bay. As a response to a possible Japanese chemical warfare threat the RAAF imported hundreds of thousands of chemical weapons into Australia. [2].

In the Battle of the Bismarck Sea, imported Bristol Beaufighters proved to be highly effective ground attack and maritime strike aircraft. Beaufighters were later made locally by the DAP. Although it was much bigger than Japanese fighters, the Beaufighter had the speed to outrun them.

The RAAF's heavy bomber force was predominantly comprised of 287 B-24 Liberators, which could bomb Japanese targets as far away as Borneo and the Philippines from airfields in Australia and New Guinea.

By late 1945, the RAAF had received or ordered about 500 P-51 Mustangs, for fighter/ground attack purposes. The Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation initially assembled US-made Mustangs, but later manufactured most of those used. The RAAF's main operational formation, the First Tactical Air Force, comprised more than 18,000 personnel and 20 squadrons; it had taken part in the Philippines and Borneo campaigns and was scheduled to participate in the invasion of the Japanese mainland, Operation Downfall. So too were the RAAF bomber squadrons in Europe, as part of the proposed Tiger Force. However, the war was brought to a sudden end by the US nuclear attacks on Japan. As a result of the Empire Air Training Scheme, about 20,000 Australian personnel had served with other Commonwealth air forces in Europe during World War II. A total of 216,900 men and women served in the RAAF, of whom 11,061 were killed in action.

Service since 1945

In the Korean War, Mustangs from No. 77 Squadron (77 Sqn), stationed in Japan with the British Commonwealth Occupation Force, were among the first United Nations aircraft to be deployed, in ground support, combat air patrol, and escort missions. When the UN planes were confronted by MiG-15 jet fighters, 77 Sqn acquired Gloster Meteors, which enabled some success against the Soviet pilots flying for North Korea. However the MiGs were superior aircraft and the Meteors were relegated to ground support missions, as the North Koreans gained experience. The air force also operated transport aircraft during the conflict.

Boeing 707 of the RAAF

During the Vietnam War, from 1966-72, the RAAF contributed squadrons of Caribou STOL transport aircraft (No. 35 Squadron), UH-1 Iroquois helicopters (No. 9 Squadron) and English Electric Canberra bombers (No. 2 Squadron). The Canberras flew a large number of bombing sorties, and two were lost. One went missing during a bombing raid, and neither the crew nor the aircraft has ever been located. The other was shot down by a surface to air missile, although both crew were rescued. RAAF transport aircraft also supported anti-communist ground forces. The UH-1 helicopters were used in many roles including Dustoff (medical evacuation) and Bushranger Gunships for armed support.

Military airlifts were conducted for a number of purposes in the intervening decades, such as the peacekeeping operations in East Timor from 1999. Australia's combat aircraft were not used again in combat until the Iraq War in 2003, when F/A-18s from No. 75 Squadron operated in the escort and ground attack roles.

Ranks and uniform

Main article: Ranks of the RAAF

The RAAF uses RAF-derived ranks for both officers and other ranks, with the following exceptions:

  • the RAAF does not use "Technician" ranks
  • non-commissioned aircrew do not wear an eagle above their chevrons
  • the insignia for Leading Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman (LAC/W) is a single chevron, rather than a two-bladed propeller
  • there is no Senior Aircraftman/Aircraftwoman (SAC) rank.

Unlike their British, Canadian and New Zealand counterparts, they do not wear a blue-grey uniform. AUSTRALIA on slip-on rank epaulettes or otherwise known as (SRI) 'Soft Rank Insignia' and are worn on the shoulders of the service dress uniform. When not in the service dress or "Ceremonial" uniform, RAAF personnel wear the Auscam DPCU, which has replaced the old working dress.

Roundel

The current version of the RAAF Roundel was formally adopted on the 2nd of July, 1956. The Roundel exists of a white inner circle with a Red Kangaroo surrounded by a royal blue circle. The kangaroo faces left, except when used on aircraft or vehicles, when the kangaroo should always face the front.

Originally, the Air Force used the existing red, white and blue Roundel of the Royal Air Force. However, during World War II, the inner red circle was removed after a No. 11 Squadron Catalina was mistaken for a Japanese aircraft by a US Navy Wildcat in the Pacific Theatre.[1]

After the war, a range of options were proposed, including the Southern Cross, a boomerang, a sprig of wattle and the red kangaroo.

Royal Australian Air Force Badge

The RAAF badge was accepted by the Chester Herald in 1939. The badge is composed of the Imperial Crown mounted on a circle featuring the words Royal Australian Air Force, beneath which scroll work displays the Latin motto Per Ardua Ad Astra. Surmounting the badge is a wedge-tailed eagle. Per Ardua Ad Astra is attributed with the meaning “Through Struggle to the Stars” and is from Sir Henry Rider Haggard's novel The People of the Mist. [3]

Current strength

Aircraft

See also: Current RAAF Aircraft

As of 2007, the following aircraft are operated by the RAAF:

Template:Standard table ! style="text-align: left; background: #aacccc;"|Aircraft ! style="text-align: left; background: #aacccc;"|Origin ! style="text-align: left; background: #aacccc;"|Type ! style="text-align: left; background: #aacccc;"|Versions ! style="text-align: left; background: #aacccc;"|In service[2][3][4] ! style="text-align: left; background: #aacccc;"|Notes |----- | BAE Systems Hawk |  United Kingdom | Lead-in fighter trainer | Hawk 127 | 33 | fighter jet conversion trainer. |----- | Beechcraft Super King Air |  United States | Navigational trainer | B300 | 8 | |----- | Boeing Business Jet |  United States | VIP transport | 737-700 BBJ | 2 | Long term lease, transport for the Prime Minister, Queen and Distinguished Guests. |----- | Boeing C-17 Globemaster III |  United States | Transport | C-17 | 4 | All aircraft were delivered by January 2008[5]. |----- | Bombardier Challenger 600 |  Canada | VIP transport | CL 604 | 3 | |----- | de Havilland Canada DHC-4 Caribou |  Canada | Transport | DHC-4 | 14 | The DHC-4 will be retired in 2009.[6] |----- | General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark |  United States | Strike | F-111 total
F-111C
RF-111C | 21
17
4 | Mixture of the original long-range F-111C type, RF-111C reconnaissance variants, and ex-USAF F-111A (upgraded to most of the C specifications) and F-111G attrition replacements. These aircraft are due to be retired in 2010. The F/A-18F has been selected as an interim replacement. All F-111G Aircraft were retired in September 2007. |----- | Lockheed C-130 Hercules |  United States | Transport | C-130 total
C-130H
C-130J-30 | 20
8
12 | |----- | Lockheed P-3 Orion |  United States | Maritime patrol/strike | P-3 total
AP-3C | 21
18 | All aircraft to withdrawn by 2018. Will probably be replaced by Boeing P-8 Poseidon |----- | McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet |  United States
 Australia | Fighter/attack | F/A-18 total
F/A-18A
F/A-18B | 71
54
17 | Built in Australia under licence from McDonnell Douglas. The F/A-18 fleet has been the subject of various upgrades since it entered service in the 1980s and remains capable, but fatigue issues mean that it may not remain a viable front-line air defence option until the planned retirement date of 2015, although this is being mitigated through a centre barrel replacement program[citation needed]. They are expected to be replaced by 100 F-35 Lightning II. |----- | Pilatus PC-9 |  Switzerland
 Australia | Advanced trainer | PC-9 | 65 | Produced under licence in Australia by de Havilland Australia. |----- | | |Total |Fighters/ Attack Aircraft

Trainers

Transport(Inc. VIP |111

130

43 |Trainers includes the 24 PAC CT/4 basic trainers |} In addition, 24 PAC CT/4 basic trainers, better known as the "Plastic Parrot", are owned and operated by BAE Systems for primary training.

Small arms

Current flying squadrons

Main article: Structure of the RAAF
File:CTOL.jpg
The F-35 Lightning II takes to the air for the first time in late 2006

Future equipment

This list includes aircraft on order or a requirement which has been identified.

Procurement Review

The new Labor government made a pledge to review the procurement of both the F-35 Lightning and the F/A-18F Super Hornet as part of a review of overall defence procurement. The new defence minister Joel Fitzgibbon made clear that "no option would be ruled out". This includes the possibility of purchasing the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor[8]. On 17 March 2008 defence minister Joel Fitzgibbon confirmed that Australia would purchase 24 F/A-18F Super Hornets. [9]

However, the Howard government ruled out purchase of the F-22, on the grounds that it is unlikely to be released for export, and does not have sufficient ground/maritime strike capacity. This assessment was supported by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, a non-partisan, government-funded think-tank, which claimed that the F-22 "has insufficient multi-role capability at too high a price."

The US Congress upheld the ban on F-22 Raptor foreign sales during a joint conference on 27 September 2006. After talks in Washington in December 2006, the US DoD reported the F-22 would not be available for foreign sale.

Following the victory of the Australian Labor Party in the 2007 national election, the new government ordered a review of plans to procure the F-35 and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. This review will include an evaluation of the F-22's suitability for Australia; moreover, Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon has stated: "I intend to pursue American politicians for access to the Raptor". In February 2008, U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said he had no objection to sale of the Raptor to Australia, but Congress would have to change the law.

In August 2008 reports in the press indicated that the RAAF is now also considering the purchase of the E/A-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft to compliment the new F model purchase. Up to 6 Growlers are being considered.

Gallery of RAAF Aircraft

  • A RAAF Boeing 707-368C at Perth international airport.
    A RAAF Boeing 707-368C at Perth international airport.
  • F/A-18 Hornets of the Royal Australian Air Force.
    F/A-18 Hornets of the Royal Australian Air Force.
  • An Australian F-111
    An Australian F-111
  • A RAAF C-130J (front) and a RNZAF P-3K Orion (rear)
    A RAAF C-130J (front) and a RNZAF P-3K Orion (rear)
  • BAe Hawk Mk.127 lead-in fighter of No. 76 Squadron RAAF in special colour-scheme with "panther" motif.
    BAe Hawk Mk.127 lead-in fighter of No. 76 Squadron RAAF in special colour-scheme with "panther" motif.
  • One of two Boeing Business Jets, which are used by the Prime Minister, the Queen and the Governor General.
    One of two Boeing Business Jets, which are used by the Prime Minister, the Queen and the Governor General.
  • One of the RAAF's C-17 Globemasters
    One of the RAAF's C-17 Globemasters

See also

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Royal Australian Air Force.

References

  1. ^ a b "RAAF Badge and Roundel". Australian Department of Defence. Retrieved 2007-03-15.
  2. ^ "World Military Aircraft Inventory", Aerospace Source Book 2007, Aviation Week & Space Technology, January 15 2007.
  3. ^ 2005-06 Defence Annual Report Page 134
  4. ^ RAAF A97 Lockheed C-130A/E/H/J Hercules- list retrieved 2007-08-30.
  5. ^ Australian military aviation OrBat
  6. ^ "Australian Aviation Express. Issue 241". Phantom Media. 2008-09-29. Retrieved 2008-09-29.
  7. ^ RAAF Airfield Defence Guard webpage Retrieved: June 27 2008.
  8. ^ Govindasamy, Siva. "Australia to weigh Lockheed Martin F-22 against Russian fighters." Reed Business Information, Flightglobal.com, 10 January 2008. Retrieved: 28 February 2008.
  9. ^ Kerr, Julian. "Australian government commits to Super Hornet acquisition." Janes Information Group, janes.com, 18 March 2008. Retrieved: 1 April 2008.

External links

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