AN F-35 Lightning lands at RAAF Williamtown, one of nine final aircraft for the RAAF. Photo: LAC Kurt Lewis/Department of Defence
Australia has taken delivery of its final F-35A Lightning II advanced combat aircraft at RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW.
The 72-aircraft strong F-35A fleet, along with its EA-18 Growler and F/A-18 Super Hornets, are the cornerstone of Australia’s air defence.
Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell says the delivery of the final nine aircraft is a key milestone for the Royal Australian Air Force.
“The delivery of the final F-35A Lightning II is a practical demonstration of the air force’s ability to deliver highly effective air power as part of an integrated and focused force, in line with the National Defence Strategy,” he says.
The aircraft travelled from Nellis Air Force Base, in the US, supported by a RAAF KC-30A aerial tanker aircraft and a C-17A Globemaster.
“Australians should be proud that our air force is flying the most advanced multi-role fighter in the world.”
A multi-role fighter, the F-35A can perform air-to-air and air-to-surface missions using stealth technology, electronic protection, electronic attack and advanced countermeasures.
The first two F-35A aircraft arrived in Australia on December 10, 2018.
NAVAL DEPLOYMENT
The Australian Defence Vessel (ADV) Reliant set sail from Brisbane on its first deployment of 2025; a three-month mission to Pacific island countries to deliver stores and equipment, and assist with maritime surveillance.
The Reliant will deliver fire trucks to Kiribati, relief stores and infrastructure support to Tonga, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief stores to Solomon Islands.
Acting Chief of Joint Operations Major General Paul Kenny said since it entered service in 2022, the Reliant had improved Australia’s ability to provide aid and support.
“Over the past two years, ADV Reliant has proven to be a highly capable and responsive vessel,” Major General Paul Kenny said.
“It has the ability to respond to any situation within the maritime domain, including significant incidents, rendering assistance to personnel in need and responding to medical emergencies.”
ADV Reliant is deployed at sea for 300 days a year with a multi-crew system, supporting search and rescue, maritime surveillance, cargo transport and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
