EDINBURGH Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) base has been chosen to host the next Australian Defence Force (ADF) Air Show in November.
Held every two to three years at various ADF air bases around Australia, the Air Show displays both the latest and historic aircraft, technology and memorabilia associated with the ADF.
The 2019 theme is ‘Vimy to Fifth Generation in 100 Years’, commemorating a century since South Australian brothers Sir Ross and Sir Keith Smith flew from England to Australia in a Vickers Vimy aircraft to win the ‘Great Air Race’.
The RAAF museum, with the Sir Ross Smith Foundation, will display memorabilia associated with the flight.
RAAF head of air shows, air commodore Christopher Sawade said some of the RAAF’s most famous aircraft will be on display on the ground, and in the air throughout the show.
“Flying displays on both days will feature fifth generation RAAF aircraft, including fast jets and aircraft from the Air Mobility and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance fleets,” he said.
“Air Force’s newest maritime surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft, the Edinburgh-based P-8A Poseidon, will also participate in the Air Show.
“A final highlight will be the aerobatic performances by the Air Force Roulettes, who will be showing off the capabilities of their new Pilatus PC-21 aircraft.”
The show will also feature non-aircraft military hardware, ADF and local industry displays, performances by the Air Force Band, and children’s activities.
Air commodore Sawade said the defence force was “proud” to stage the show at Edinburgh.
“Defence has had a presence in South Australia since World War Two, and RAAF Base Edinburgh is a significant ADF base,” he said.
“RAAF Base Edinburgh is the centre of the nation’s military intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and electronic warfare capabilities.
“It is also home to the Australian Army’s 1st Armoured Regiment and the 7th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment.”
The 2019 ADF Air Show will be held at the Edinburgh base from November 9-10, with tickets to go on sale in July.