Self-deploying with assistance of Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) C-17s, the Air Task Group includes a KC-30A tanker (left), E-7A Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning & Control aircraft (lower right) and six F/A-18Fs, two of which are pictured in this formation (center and background). The latter are due to be replaced in theater by “Classic” F/A-18s.
Credit: Commonwealth of Australia
Through the end of January, RAAF F/A-18Fs had dropped 180 munitions on Islamic State targets over 290 sorties.
Credit: Commonwealth of Australia
Since arriving in October, the task group’s KC-30A has dispensed more than 11 million lb. of fuel to RAAF and coalition aircraft.
Credit: Commonwealth of Australia
After a problematic development, RAAF planners are confident that the refueling boom on the KC-30A is poised to achieve initial operational capability.
Credit: Commonwealth of Australia
The newly commissioned Landing Helicopter Dock, HMAS Canberra, is the largest vessel ever built for the Australian navy and features a ramp on the bow despite being aimed at rotary-wing operations. The ramp has sparked debate over Australia’s possible acquisition of F-35Bs.
Credit: Commonwealth of Australia
A “JSF precinct” is in development for the F-35 at RAAF Base Williamstown, where a training squadron and two operational squadrons will be based. Another F-35 squadron will be based at RAAF Base Tindall in the Northern Territories. The first, No. 3 Sqdn., will be declared fully operational in 2021. All 72 F-35As currently on order are expected to be in service by 2023.
Credit: Lockheed Martin
Australia’s highly modern Air Task Group, deployed last year for international operations against Islamic State militants, is a compact bellwether of an air force in transition.
