List of aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force explained

Many aircraft types have served in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) since it was formed in March 1921.[1] This is a list of RAAF aircraft, those types that have served and been retired by the RAAF. It also includes aircraft of the Australian Flying Corps, Australian Air Corps and Australian Air Force. The aircraft are listed in alphabetic order of their RAAF type name, and then in mark order within that type. For the current aircraft of the RAAF, refer to the list of current Royal Australian Air Force aircraft.

By type

|-|Avro 504|United Kingdom|biplane|trainer|1916|1928[2] |132[3] |several variants used, including at least 8 504A, 7 504J, and 56 504K|-|B.E.2a|United Kingdom|biplane|trainer|1914|1918|2[4] |operated by Central Flying School as CFS1 and CFS2|-|B.E.2c|United Kingdom|biplane|reconnaissance|||27[5] |operated by No. 1 Sqn.|-|B.E.2e|United Kingdom|biplane|trainer||1920|1|operated by 1, 4, and 7 Sqns.;[5] 1 operated by Central Flying School from 1918 to 1920|-|Blériot XI|France|prop|trainer|1915|1917|1[4] |operated by Central Flying School as CFS6; primarily for ground instruction|-|Boxkite|United Kingdom|prop|trainer|1913|1917|2[4] |one built by Bristol and second ordered but not delivered; another was built in Australia from parts; operated by Central Flying School as CFS3 and CFS8; first military aircraft built in Australia|-|Boxkite XV|United Kingdom|prop|trainer|1916|1918|2|built by Grahame-White Aviation Company; operated by Central Flying School|-|CA-25 Winjeel|Australia|prop|trainer|1955|1995|62 Production + 2 Prototypes|Served as a Central Flying School trainer and then into a FAC (Forward Air Control) role in its final years, replaced by the PAC CT-4A|-|PAC CT/4 Airtrainer|New Zealand|prop|trainer|1975|1992|51|Served as a Central Flying School trainer, Became replaced by contracted BAE Systems CT-4B's, until BAE contract was lost. Civilian use of CT-4As are high.|-|CA-26 Sabre|Australia|jet|fighter|1956|1957|1|Experimental development of the F-86 Sabre, led to CA-27 Sabre|-|CA-27 Sabre Mk.30-32|Australia|jet|fighter|1956|1971|112|license-built by Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation; replaced by the Mirage III|-|Caudron G.III|France|biplane|trainer|1916|1917|1|operated by Central Flying School|-|Deperdussin Type A|France|prop|trainer|1913|1918|2[4] |built by British Deperdussin; operated by Central Flying School as CFS4 and CFS5|-|DH.1a|United Kingdom|biplane|fighter|1916|1916|1[6] |built by Savages; operated by 1 Sqn AFC; returned to UK|-|DH.5|United Kingdom|biplane|fighter|1917||78[7] |operated by 2 & 6 Sqns AFC|-|DH.6|United Kingdom|biplane|trainer|1918|1919|28|2 additional aircraft ordered by Central Flying School but lost at sea during delivery; operated by 5, 7, and 8 Sqns RFC|-|DH.9A|United Kingdom|biplane|light bomber|1920|1930|31|30 acquired as an imperial gift from the United Kingdom
1 replacement purchased
6 destroyed; 16 scrapped; 9 written-off
assigned RAAF serial prefix A1[8] |-|DHC-4 Caribou|Canada|prop|airlift|1964|2009|29[9] |Operated as transport aircraft and STOL Aircraft throughout the Vietnam war and PNG regions|-|F.2b Fighter|United Kingdom|biplane|fighter|1918|1919|67[10] |operated by 1, 3, and 7 Sqns. AFC|-|F-111C Aardvark|United States|jet|medium-range interdictor/ Tactical Strike|1973|2010|24||Ordered in 1963 to replace the ageing English Electric Canberra Bombers. Delivery not received until 1973, RAAF used leased F-4 Phantoms while the U.S. produced the first F-111Cs|-|width=150|F-111G Aardvark|width=130|United States|jet|medium-range interdictor/ Tactical Strike|1992|2007|15|former USAF aircraft, attrition replacements for the F-111C|-|F.E.2b|United Kingdom|biplane|trainer|1917|1920|1|operated by Central Flying School|-|F.K.3|United Kingdom|biplane|trainer|1917|1917|4[11] |briefly operated by the AFC|-|Lincoln Mk.30[12] |United Kingdom|prop|bomber|1946|1961| 73[13] | 20 converted to Mk.31 Lincoln|-|Lincoln Mk.31[12] |United Kingdom|prop|LRN (long Range Navigation Bomber)|1946|1961|20[14] |"Long Nose" Lincoln was unique to Australian service, featuring a 6' 6" nose extension[12] |-|Maurice Farman Hydro-Aeroplane|France|floatplane|trainer|1914|1917|1|operated by Central Flying School as CFS7|-|M.F.7 Longhorn|France|biplane|trainer|1916|1918|1|operated by Central Flying School as CFS15|-|M.F.11 Shorthorn|France|biplane|trainer|1916|1919|5|operated by Central Flying School|-|Mirage IIIO(A & F)|France
Australia|jet|interceptor|1964|1988|100|built by Government Aircraft Factories; replaced by the AF-18A Hornet|-|Mirage III D|France
Australia|jet|operational trainer|1964|1988|16|built by Government Aircraft Factories; replaced by the AF-18B Hornet|-|Scout D|United Kingdom|biplane|utility|1916|1926|1|operated by Central Flying School and No. 1 Flying Training School RAAF|-|UH-1B Iroquois|United States|helicopter|utility transport|1962[15] |1989|24[16] |replaced by the S-70 Black Hawk|-|UH-1D Iroquois|United States|helicopter|utility transport|1966[17] |1989|8|replaced by the S-70 Black Hawk|-|UH-1H Iroquois|United States|helicopter|utility transport|1968|1989|34|replaced by the S-70 Black Hawk|-|}

Australian Central Flying School 1913–1919

See also: Central Flying School RAAF.

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService PeriodNotes
DH.6 United Kingdom Two-seat primary trainer biplane 1918–1919 Nine aircraft
Avro 504K United Kingdom Two-seat trainer biplane 1919–1920 20 aircraft
Bleriot XI France Trainer aircraft 1915–1917 One aircraft was donated to the Australian Central Flying School in 1915.
Boxkite United Kingdom Two-seat trainer biplane 1912–1918 Two aircraft
Scout D United Kingdom Single-seat trainer biplane 1916–1926 One ex-Royal Naval Air Service aircraft
G.3 France Two-seat trainer biplane 1916–1918 One aircraft
Type A France Single-seat trainer aircraft 1913–1914 Two aircraft
Grahame-White Type XV Boxkite Type XV Boxkite United Kingdom Two-seat trainer biplane 1916–1918 Two aircraft
Maurice Farman Seaplane Seaplane France Two-seat seaplane 1914–1917 One aircraft
MF.7 Shorthorn France Two-seat trainer biplane 1916–1917 One aircraft
MF.11 Shorthorn France Two-seat trainer biplane 1917–1919 Four aircraft
B.E.2a, B.E.2b United Kingdom Two-seat trainer biplane 1912–1920 Three aircraft
F.E.2b United Kingdom Two-seat trainer biplane 1917–1920 One aircraft was donated to the Australian Central Flying School in 1917.
Pup United Kingdom Single-seat fighter trainer biplane 1919–1920 12 aircraft

Australian Flying Corps 1913–1920

See also: Australian Flying Corps.

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
DH.1a United Kingdom Two-seat fighter scout biplane 1916 One aircraft. Operated by No. 1 Squadron
DH.5 United Kingdom Single-seat fighter scout biplane 1917-?
DH.6 United Kingdom Two-seat primary trainer biplane 1917–1918 68 aircraft. Operated by No. No. 5 (Training) Squadron and No. 7 (Training) Squadron
Armstrong Whitworth F.K.3 Little Ark F.K.3 United Kingdom Two-seat trainer, obsolete reconnaissance, light bomber biplane 1917 only Operated by No. 3 squadron
504A504J504K United Kingdom Two-seat elementary trainer biplane 1917–1919 Operated by Nos 5, 6, 7 and 8 Training Squadrons
F.2B Fighter United Kingdom Two-seat reconnaissance, fighter biplane 1916–1918 676 aircraft. Operated by No. 1 Squadron, No. 3 Squadron and No. 7 (Training) Squadron.
Scout CScout D United Kingdom Single-seat fighter scout, reconnaissance, trainer biplane 1916-? Ten aircraft. Operated by No. 1 Squadron and No. 6 (Training) Squadron
G.3 France Two-seat reconnaissance biplane 1915 only Two aircraft. Operated by the Mesopotamian Half Flight
JN-4 Jenny United States Two-seat primary trainer biplane 1917-?
0/400 United Kingdom Three-seat twin-engine heavy bomber biplane 1918 only One aircraft. Operated by No. 1 Squadron in Palestine.
Martinsyde S.1 Scout S.1 Scout United Kingdom Single-seat, reconnaissance, scout biplane 1915–1916 Four aircraft. Operated by the Mesopotamian Half Flight
G.100 ElephantG.102 Elephant United Kingdom Single-seat bomber, reconnaissance, obsolete fighter scout biplane 1916–1918 Operated by No. 1 Squadron in Egypt and Palestine.
MF.7 Longhorn France Two-seat reconnaissance biplane 1915 only One aircraft. Operated by the Mesopotamian Half Flight
MF.11 Shorthorn France Two-seat trainer, obsolete reconnaissance, light bomber biplane 1915–1916 23 aircraft. Operated by No. 5 (Training) Squadron and the Mesopotamian Half Flight
B.E.2cB.E.2e United Kingdom Two-seat reconnaissance, artillery spotter, light bomber, trainer biplane 1915–1918 38 aircraft. Operated by No. 1 Squadron in Egypt and Palestine, No. 7 (Training) Squadron in the United Kingdom, plus the Mesopotamian Half Flight.
B.E.12B.E.12a United Kingdom Single-seat reconnaissance, light bomber, obsolete fighter biplane ?-1919 Nine aircraft. Operated by No. 1 Squadron in Palestine.
R.E.8 United Kingdom Two-seat reconnaissance, artillery observation, light bomber biplane 1917–1919 Operated by No. 1 Squadron, No. 3 squadron and No. 7 (Training) Squadron
SE.5A United Kingdom single-seat fighter scout biplane 1917–1919 158 aircraft. Operated by No. 2 Squadron in France, No.5 (Training) Squadron and No. 6 (Training) Squadron in the United Kingdom.
3F.1 Buffalo United Kingdom Two-seat armoured fighter, reconnaissance biplane 1918 One aircraft. Operated by No. 4 Squadron for test and trials.
1F.1 Camel United Kingdom Single-seat fighter scout biplane 1917–1919 186 aircraft. Operated by No. 4 Squadron in France, No. 5 (Training) Squadron, No. 6 (Training) Squadron and No. 8 (Training) Squadron in the United Kingdom.
Pup United Kingdom Single-seat trainer, obsolete fighter-scout biplane 1917–1919 27 aircraft. Operated by Nos 5, 6 and 8 Training Squadrons in the United kingdom.
7F.1 Snape United Kingdom Single-seat fighter-scout biplane 1919 only 68 aircraft. Operated by No. 4 Squadron in France, No. 6 (Training) Squadron and No. 8 (Training) Squadron in the United Kingdom.
United Kingdom trainer, obsolete fighter and reconnaissance biplane 1916–1918 Nine aircraft. Operated by No. 6 (Training) Squadron in the United Kingdom.

Australian Air Corps 1920–1921

See also: Australian Air Corps.

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
Airco DH.9 United Kingdom Two-seat day bomber, general-purpose biplane 1920–1921 28 Imperial Gift aircraft
Airco DH.9A United Kingdom Two-seat day bomber biplane 1920–1921 30 Imperial Gift aircraft
Avro 504KAvro 504L floatplane United Kingdom Two-seat trainer biplane 1920–1921 20 aircraft, plus 35 Imperial Gift aircraft
Scout D United Kingdom 1920–1921 One aircraft
B.E.2B United Kingdom Two-seat trainer biplane 1920 One aircraft
F.E.2b United Kingdom 1920 one aircraft
S.E.5A United Kingdom Single-seat fighter biplane 1920–1921 35 Imperial Gift aircraft
Pup United Kingdom Single-seat fighter trainer biplane 1920–1921 12 aircraft
FB.27A Vimy IIUnited Kingdom Twin-engine heavy bomber biplane 1920–1921 One aircraft, civil registration G-EAOU

Fighters and fighter-bombers

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
S.E.5A United Kingdom Single-seat fighter biplane 1921–1928 35 aircraft. Imperial Gift aircraft
Bulldog Mk IIA United Kingdom Single-seat day and night fighter biplane 1930–1940 Eight aircraft. Operated by No. 1 Squadron RAAF and No. 2 Squadron RAAF.
Gauntlet Mk II United Kingdom Single-seat day and night fighter biplane 1940 only Six aircraft. Operated by No. 3 Squadron RAAF in Egypt. The RAF variant was the Gauntlet Mk II.
Gladiator Mk II United Kingdom Single-seat fighter biplane 1940–1941 30 aircraft. Operated by No. 3 Squadron RAAF during the 1st Libyan campaigns. The RAF variant was the Gladiator Mk II.
Demon Mk IDemon Mk IIUnited Kingdom Two-seat fighter biplane 1935–1945 64 aircraft.
Defiant Mk IDefiant Mk II United Kingdom Two-seat night fighter aircraft 1941 only 18 aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by No. 456 Squadron RAAF in the United Kingdom. RAF variants were the Defiant Mk I and Mk II.
P-40B Tomahawk Mk IIB United States Single-seat fighter bomber aircraft 1941 only Operated by No. 3 Squadron RAAF in the Syrian and 2nd Libyan campaigns. The RAF variant was the Tomahawk Mk IIB.
Hurricane Mk I United Kingdom Single-seat fighter aircraft 1941, 1942–1946 Only one aircraft served with the RAAF in Australia. Operated by No. 3 Squadron RAAF, No. 450 Squadron RAAF and No. 451 Squadron RAAF in North Africa. RAF variants were the Hurricane Mk I, Mk II, Mk IIB and Mk IIC.
Spitfire F Mk VCSpitfire F Mk VIIISpitfire HF Mk VIIISpitfire LF Mk VIII United Kingdom Single-seat fighter aircraft 1941–1945 928 plus aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by Nos 451, 452, 453 and 457 Australian squadrons. RAF variants were the Spitfire Mk I, Mk IIA, Mk VB, Mk VC, Mk VIII, Mk IX, Mk IXB, Mk IXE, LF Mk XIV, LF MK XVI, F Mk 14.
Buffalo Mk I United States Single-seat fighter aircraft 1941–1943 63 aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by No. 21 Squadron RAAF and No. 453 Squadron RAAF.
P-39D AiracobraP-39F AiracobraP-400 Airacobra Mk I United States Single-seat fighter aircraft 1942–1943 22 aircraft. Loaned to the RAAF by the USAAF.
Beaufighter Mk 21 United Kingdom Australia Two-seat twin-engine strike fighter aircraft 1942–1957 581 aircraft
Beaufighter MK ICBeaufigther Mk VICBeaufigther TF Mk XBeaufigther Mk XIC United Kingdom Two-seat twin-engine strike fighter aircraft RAF aircraft were operated by No. 455 Squadron RAAF and No. 456 Squadron RAAF. RAF variants were the Beaufighter Mk IIF, Mk VI and TF Mk X.
P-40E Kittyhawk Mk IA P-40K Kittyhawk Mk IIIP-40M Kittyhawk Mk IIIP-40N Kittyhawk Mk VI United States Single-seat fighter-bomber aircraft 1942–1947 848 plus aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by No. 3 Squadron RAAF and No. 450 Squadron RAAF. RAF variants were the Kittyhawk Mk I, Mk II, Mk IIA, Mk III and Mk IV.
CA-12 Boomerang Mk ICA-13 Boomerang Mk IICA-14 BoomerangCA-14A prototypeCA-19 Boomerang Australia Single-seat interceptor, ground-attack fighter aircraft 1942–1946 250 aircraft
Mosquito F MK IIMosquito T Mk IIIMosquito FB Mk VIMosquito PR Mk XVIMosquito FB Mk 40Mosquito PR Mk 40Mosquito PR Mk 41Mosquito T Mk 43 United KingdomAustralia Twin-engine two-seat long-range high-altitude fighter bomber, photographic reconnaissance aircraft 1942–1954 285 plus aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by No. 456 Squadron RAAF and No. 464 Squadron RAAF. RAF variants were the Mosquito NF Mk II, T Mk III, FB Mk VI, NF Mk XVII and NF Mk 30.
P-51D MustangP-51K MustangCA-17 Mustang Mk 20CA-18 Mustang Mk 21CA-18 Mustang PR Mk 22CA-18 Mustang Mk 23 United StatesAustralia Single-seat long-range fighter aircraft 1944–1960 499 plus aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by No. 3 Squadron RAAF and No. 450 Squadron RAAF between 1944 and 1945. RAF variants were the Mustang Mk III, Mk IV and Mk IVA. The CAC Mustangs were operated by No. 3 Squadron RAAF, No. 4 Squadron RAAF, No. 21 Squadron RAAF, No. 22 Squadron RAAF, No. 23 Squadron RAAF, No. 24 Squadron RAAF, No. 25 Squadron RAAF, No. 75 Squadron RAAF, No. 76 Squadron RAAF, No. 77 Squadron RAAF and No. 82 Squadron RAAF. See CAC Mustang.
Vampire F Mk 1Vampire F Mk 2Vampire FB Mk 5 United Kingdom Single-seat fighter, fighter bomber aircraft 1948–1957 Three aircraft
Vampire F MK 30Vampire FB Mk 31Vampire T Mk 33Vampire TMk 34Vampire T Mk 34AVampire T Mk 35Vampire T Mk 35A United KingdomAustralia Single-seat fighter, fighter bomber aircraft 1949–1970 193 aircraft. The Vampire were operated by No. 21 Squadron RAAF, No. 22 Squadron RAAF, No. 23 Squadron RAAF, No. 25 Squadron RAAF, No. 75 Squadron RAAF and No. 76 Squadron RAAF. Also operated No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit RAAF and the Central Flying School RAAF.
Meteor F Mk 3Meteor F Mk 8Meteor NF MK 11Meteor T Mk 7Meteor U Mk 21A United Kingdom Single-seat interceptor, ground attack fighter aircraft 1946–1947, 1951–1963 111 aircraft. The Meteor were operated by No. 22 Squadron RAAF, No. 23 Squadron RAAF, No. 75 Squadron RAAF and No. 77 Squadron RAAF.
CA-26 PrototypeCA-27 Sabre Mk 30CA-27 Sabre Mk 31CA-27 Sabre Mk 32 United StatesAustralia Single-seat jet fighter aircraft 1954–1971 112 aircraft. The CAC Sabres were operated by No. 3 Squadron RAAF, No. 75 Squadron RAAF, No. 76 Squadron RAAF and No. 77 Squadron RAAF. Also operated by No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit RAAF and No. 5 Operational Training Unit RAAF.
Mirage IIIDMirage IIIO(A)Mirage IIIO(F) FranceAustralia Single-seat interceptor fighter, ground-attack fighter-bomber aircraft 1964–1988 116 aircraft. The Mirage III were operated by No. 3 Squadron RAAF, No. 75 Squadron RAAF, No. 76 Squadron RAAF, No. 77 Squadron RAAF and No. 79 Squadron RAAF. Also operated by No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit RAAF and the Aircraft Research and Development Unit RAAF.
F/A-18A HornetF/A-18B Hornet United StatesAustralia Single-seat multi-role fighter-attack aircraft 1985–2021
F/A-18F Super Hornet United States Two-seat multi-role fighter-attack aircraft 2010–present
F-35A United States single-seat multi-role fighter aircraft 2014–present
EF-18A Growler United States Two-seat electronic warfare aircraft 2015–present 12 Aircraft

Bombers

Aircraft type VariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
DH.9 United Kingdom Two-seat day bomber, general-purpose biplane 1921–1930 28 aircraft. Imperial Gift aircraft
DH.9A United Kingdom Two-seat day bomber biplane 1921–1929 30 aircraft
FB.27A Vimy II United Kingdom Twin-engine heavy bomber 1921-? One aircraft
Wapiti Mk IAWapiti Mk IIA United Kingdom Two-seat general-purpose, light bomber biplane 1929–1943 44 aircraft. Used as trainer and target tug aircraft.
Hudson Mk IHudson Mk IIHudson Mk IIIAHudson IVHudson Mk IVA United States Twin-engine general reconnaissance bomber aircraft, with a crew of five 1940–1948 RAF aircraft were operated by No. 8 Squadron RAAF and No. 459 Squadron RAAF. RAF variants were the Hudson Mk III, Mk IIIA, Mk V and Mk VI
Beaufort Mk VBeaufort Mk VABeaufort Mk VIBeaufort Mk VIIBeaufort Mk VIIIBeaufort Mk IX United KingdomAustralia Twin-engine torpedo bomber aircraft, with a crew of four 1941–1946 701 aircraft
Vengeance Mk IVengeance Mk IAVengeance Mk IIVengeance Mk IV United States Two-seat dive bomber aircraft 1942–1946 342 aircraft. See Vultee Vengeance in Australian service
DB-7B Boston Mk IIIA-20A BostonA-20C BostonA-20G Boston United States Twin-engine light attack bomber aircraft, with a crew of three 1942–1945 69 aircraft
Wellington Mk ICWellington Mk IIIWellington Mk IVWellington Mk VIIIWellington Mk XWellington Mk XIWellington Mk XIIWellington Mk XIIIWellington Mk XIV United Kingdom Twin-engine long-range medium bomber aircraft, with a crew of six 1941–1945 71 aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by Nos 458, 460 and 466 Australian Squadrons. RAF variants were the Wellington Mk IC, Mk III, Mk IV, Mk VIII, Mk X, Mk XI, Mk XIII and Mk XIV
Hampden Mk IHampden TB Mk I United Kingdom Four-seat twin-engine medium bomber, torpedo bomber1941–1942 70 aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by No. 455 Squadron RAAF. RAF variants were the Hampden Mk I and TB Mk I.
Blenheim Mk IBlenheim Mk IVBlenheim Mk V United Kingdom Three-seat twin-engine light bomber aircraft 1942–1943 RAF aircraft were operated by No. 454 Squadron RAAF and No. 459 Squadron RAAF in the Mediterranean.
Halifax Mk IIHalifax Mk III United Kingdom Four-engine heavy bomber aircraft, with a crew of seven 1942–1945 300 aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by Nos 460, 462 and 466 Australian squadrons. RAF variants were the Halifax Mk II, Mk III and VI
RB-34A VenturaPV-1 Ventura United States Twin-engine general reconnaissance bomber aircraft, with a crew of five 1942–1946 92 aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by No. 459 Squadron RAAF and No. 464 Squadron RAAF from 1942 to 1943. RAF variants were the Ventura Mk I, Mk II and Mk V.
Baltimore Mk IIIBaltimore Mk IIIABaltimore Mk IVBaltimore Mk V United States Four-seat twin-engine light, medium bomber aircraft 1943–1945 71 plus aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by No. 454 Squadron RAAF and No. 459 Squadron RAAF. RAF variants were the Baltimore Mk III, Mk IIIA, Mk IV and Mk V
B-25D MitchellB-25J Mitchell Mk III United States Twin-engine medium bomber aircraft, with a crew of 5 or 6 1942–1946 50 aircraft
Manchester Mk I United Kingdom Twin-engine heavy bomber aircraft 1942 only Operated by No. 460 Squadron RAAF. The RAF variant was the Manchester Mk I.
Lancaster B Mk I United Kingdom Four-engine heavy bomber aircraft, with a crew of seven 1942–1946 83 plus aircraft. Only two aircraft served with the RAAF in Australia. RAF aircraft were operated by Nos 460, 463 and 467 Australian squadrons. The RAF variants were the Lancaster Mk I and Mk III. See G for George
B-24D LiberatorB-24J LiberatorB-24L LiberatorB-24M Liberator United States Four-engine heavy bomber aircraft 1944–1948 277 aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by No. 466 Squadron RAAF and No. 467 Squadron RAAF in 1945. See B-24 Liberators in Australian service
Lincoln Mk 30Lincoln Mk 30ALincoln GR Mk 31Lincoln MR Mk 31 United KingdomAustralia Four-engine long-range heavy bomber aircraft, with a crew of seven 1946–1961 73 aircraft. The Lincoln was operated by Nos No. 1 Squadron RAAF, No. 2 Squadron RAAF, No. 6 Squadron RAAF, No. 11 Squadron RAAF, No. 12 Squadron RAAF and Lincoln Conversion Flight RAAF.
Canberra B Mk 2Canberra Mk 20Canberra Mk 21Canberra T Mk 4 United KingdomAustralia Twin-engine tactical bomber aircraft 1951–1982 55 aircraft. The Canberra was operated by No. 1 Squadron RAAF, No. 2 Squadron RAAF and No. 6 Squadron RAAF. Also operated by No. 1 Operational Conversion Unit RAAF, Aircraft Research and Development Unit RAAF and No. 1 Long Range Flight RAAF.
F-4E Phantom II United States Two-seat ground attack fighter-bomber, air superiority fighter aircraft 1970–1973 24 aircraft. The F-4 Phantom was operated by No. 1 Squadron RAAF and No. 6 Squadron RAAF. See McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II in Australian service
General Dynamics F-111C Aardvark F-111A AardvarkF-111C AardvarkF-111G AardvarkRF-111C Aardvark United States Two-seat long-range tactical strike, interdictor, reconnaissance aircraft 1973–2010 43 aircraft. The F-111C was operated by No. 1 Squadron RAAF, No. 6 Squadron RAAF and the Aircraft Research and Development Unit RAAF.

Maritime Reconnaissance

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
Fairey IIID United Kingdom Three-seat spotter-reconnaissance, survey seaplane 1921–1928 RAAF on behalf of the RAN. Six aircraft
Seagull Mk III United Kingdom Three-seat spotter-reconnaissance, survey amphibian aircraft 1926–1936 RAAF on behalf of the RAN. Nine aircraft
Southampton Mk I United Kingdom General reconnaissance flying boat aircraft, with a crew of five 1928–1939 Two aircraft
Supermarine Walrus/Seagull V Seagull Mk VWalrus Mk IWalrus Mk III United Kingdom Three-seat air/sea rescue, maritime patrol amphibian aircraft 1935–1947 RAAF on behalf of the RAN. 61 aircraft
S.23 C Class Empire Flying Boat United Kingdom Four-engine 24-passenger flying boat airliner 1939–1943 Five aircraft. Impressed into RAAF service for transport and air-ambulance duties in 1939. See Qantas fleet history.
S.26/M G Class Flying Boat United Kingdom Four-engine 38-passenger flying boat airliner 1941 only Three aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by No. 10 Squadron RAAF
Sunderland Mk I United Kingdom Four-engine general-reconnaissance flying boat aircraft, with a crew of 13. 1939–1946 146 aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by No. 10 Squadron RAAF and No. 461 Squadron RAAF. RAF variants were the Sunderland Mk I, Mk II, Mk III and Mk V.
PBY-4 CatalinaPBY-5 CatalinaPBY-5A CatalinaPB2B-1 CatalinaPB2B-2 Catalina United States Twin-engine general reconnaissance flying-boat aircraft, with a crew of 8 or 9. 1940–1950 168 aircraft. The Catalina was operated by No. 10 Squadron RAAF. See Consolidated PBY Catalina in Australian service
Swordfish Mk I United States Three-seat torpedo-bomber, reconnaissance, anti-submarine biplane 1942 only Six aircraft. Used by No. 25 Squadron RAAF in Western Australia.
OS2U-3 Kingfisher United StatesTwo-seat reconnaissance aircraft 1942–1948 18 aircraft
P2V-4 NeptuneP2V-5 (P-2E) NeptuneP2V-7 (SP-2H) Neptune United States Twin-engine maritime reconnaissance, patrol and anti-submarine aircraft 1951–1977 24 aircraft. The Neptune was operated by No. 10 Squadron RAAF and No. 11 Squadron RAAF.
P-3B OrionP-3C OrionAP-3C OrionTAP-3B Orion United States Four-engine maritime patrol aircraft 1968–present 31 aircraft. The P-3 Orions are operated by No. 10 Squadron RAAF and No. 11 Squadron RAAF.
AP-3C Orion United States Four-engine maritime patrol aircraft 2002–present
P-8A Poseidon United States 2016–present

Army Cooperation

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
Audax United Kingdom Two-seat army co-operation, communications biplane 1940–1941 Used by Australian squadrons in North Africa.
Lysander Mk ILysander Mk II United Kingdom Two-seat army co-operation, communications aircraft 1940 Used by No. 3 Squadron RAAF in Egypt. Six aircraft
L-4 Grasshopper United States Two-seat light observation, communications aircraft 1943–1944 Borrowed from the USAAF, used by No. 4 Squadron RAAF in New Guinea. Two aircraft?
Taylorcraft Auster AOP United Kingdom Two-seat air observation post, communications aircraft 1944–1959 58 aircraft. The Austers were operated by No. 16 Air Observation Post Flight RAAF and No. 17 Air Observation Post Flight RAAF
L-5 Sentinel United States Two-seat light observation, communications aircraft 1944–1946 One aircraft was borrowed from the USAAF in 1944.
Cessna 180ACessna 180DCessna 180E United States Two to four-seat observation, communications aircraft 1959–1964 15 aircraft. The Cessna 180 was operated by No. 16 Army Light Aircraft Squadron (Australia). The aircraft were transferred to the Australian Army in 1964.

Trainers

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
Bristol Scout D Scout D United Kingdom 1921–1926 One aircraft
Avro 504KAvro 504L floatplane United KingdomAustralia Two-seat trainer biplane 1922–1928 61 aircraft. Imperial Gift aircraft
Pup United Kingdom Single-seat fighter trainer biplane 1922–1925 11 aircraft used as fighter trainers
D.H.60 Cirrus I MothD.H.60X Cirrus Moth United Kingdom Two-seat elementary trainer biplane 1926–1935 34 aircraft
D.H.60G Gipsy MothD.H.60G-III Moth MajorD.H.60M (Metal) Moth United KingdomAustralia Two-seat elementary trainer biplane 1930–1946 98 aircraft
Cadet Mk II United Kingdom Two-seat intermediate trainer biplane 1935–1945 34 aircraft
Oxford Mk IOxford Mk II United Kingdom Twin-engine three-seat advanced trainer aircraft 1940–1953 391 aircraft
DH.84 Dragon Mk IDH.84 Dragon Mk IIDH.84 Dragon III United KingdomAustralia Twin-engine six or eight passenger feeder airliner biplane 1940–1945 98 aircraft. Built and impressed for trainer and communications duties with the RAAF.
Anson GR Mk IAnson Mk XIIAnson Mk XIVAnson T Mk I United Kingdom Twin-engine general reconnaissance bomber, trainer aircraft 1937–1955 1020 aircraft
CA-1 WirrawayCA-3 WirrawayCA-5 WirrawayCA-7 WirrawayCA-8 WirrawayCA-9 WirrawayCA-16 WirrawayAustralia Two-seat trainer, general purpose aircraft 1939–1958 755 aircraft
DH.82A Tiger Moth United KingdomAustralia Two-seat elementary trainer biplane 1940–1957 885 aircraft. Tiger Moths were operated by No. 22 Squadron RAAF, No. 23 Squadron RAAF, No. 24 Squadron RAAF and No. 25 Squadron RAAF.
DH.94 Moth Minor United KingdomAustralia Two-seat elementary trainer aircraft 1940–1945 42 aircraft used in the Empire Air Training Scheme.
United States Twin-engine eight-seat amphibian aircraft 1940–1944 Four civilian aircraft were impressed into RAAF service in 1940.
United Kingdom Three-seat light bomber aircraft 1940–1949 Obsolete bomber aircraft. 366 aircraft used in the Empire Air Training Scheme.
CAC Wackett Trainer CA-2 PrototypesCA-6 Wackett Trainer Australia Two-seat intermediate trainer aircraft 1940–1946 202 aircraft
Ryan STM Ryan STM-2 United States Two-seat primary trainer aircraft 1942–1945 34 aircraft
CA-22 prototypeCA-25 Winjeel Australia Two or three-seat basic trainer aircraft 1951–1994 64 aircraft
RFD Winged Target United Kingdom Experimental towed target gliders 1950s Ten gliders
HS 748 Series 2 United Kingdom Twin-engine navigation trainer aircraft 1966–2004 Ten aircraft
CAC CA-30, MB-326H ItalyAustralia Two-seat basic and advanced jet trainer aircraft 1968–2001 87 aircraft
CT/4A Airtrainer New Zealand Two-seat primary trainer aircraft 1975–1993 51 aircraft
PC-9/A SwitzerlandAustralia Two-seat advanced pilot trainer, aerobatics, forward air control aircraft 1987–2019 67 aircraft
Beechcraft Super King Air (RAAF) United States Twin-engine navigation, specialised trainer aircraft B200 1997–2003, B350 2003–present
BAe Hawk 127 Hawk 127 United KingdomAustralia Two-seat advanced jet trainer, lead-in fighter trainer, light attack fighter aircraft 2000–present 33 aircraft
PC-21 Switzerland Two-set pilot trainer aircraft 2016–present

Australian Defence Force Basic Flying Training School 1993–2019

See also: Australian Defence Force Basic Flying Training School.

AircraftVariantsOriginRoleService periodNotes
CAP 10B France Two-seat aerobatic aircraft 2005–2019 Three aircraft
CT/4A, CT/4B, CT/4E New Zealand Two-seat primary trainer aircraft 1993–2019
PA-34-220T United States Twin-engined light aircraft 2005–2019 Two aircraft

Helicopters

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
S-51 Dragonfly United States Four-seat communications, casualty evacuation helicopter 1947–1964 Three helicopters.
Sycamore Mk 3Sycamore Mk 14 United Kingdom Two to five seat general-purpose helicopter 1951–1965 Used for general support duties at the Woomera Rocket Range in South Australia. Two helicopters.
UH-1B IroquoisUH-1D IroquoisUH-1H Iroquois United States Multi-role utility transport helicopter 1962–1990 66 helicopters. The UH-1 Iroquois were operated by Nos No. 5 Squadron RAAF, No. 9 Squadron RAAF, No. 35 Squadron RAAF and the Aircraft Research and Development Unit RAAF. The Iroquois were transferred to the Australian Army in 1990.
Bell 47G-3B-1 SiouxBell 47G-2 SiouxBell 47G-2A Sioux United States Three-seat utility and training helicopter 1961–1965 31 helicopters. The Bell 47 Sioux was operated by No. 16 Army Light Aircraft Squadron (Australia). The Bell 47s were transferred to the Australian Army in 1965.
SA.316B Alouette IIIFrance Seven-seat general-purpose helicopter 1964–1966 Three helicopters. Used for general support duties at the Woomera Rocket Range in South Australia.
CH-47C Chinook United States Twin-rotor medium-lift transport helicopter1974–1989 12 helicopters. Operated by No. 12 Squadron RAAF. The Chinooks were transferred to the Australian Army in 1989. See Boeing CH-47 Chinook in Australian service
AH-1G HueyCobra United States Two-seat attack helicopter Nil Zero helicopters. Not ordered.
AS.350B Squirrel France Two-crew light utility helicopter 1984–1990 18 helicopters. Transferred to the Australian Defence Force Helicopter School in 1990.
S-70A-9 Blackhawk United States Multi-role battlefield transport helicopter, with a crew of four and capable of carrying 10 troops 1988–1989 8 UH-60L (S-70A-9) helicopters. Transferred to Australian Army in 1989.

Reconnaissance and intelligence

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
Republic LancerP-43A LancerUnited StatesSingle-seat fighter, photographic reconnaissance aircraft1942–1943Eight P-43A-1 Lancer's were provided for service with the No. 1 Photographic Reconnaissance Unit. Three were written off in accidents, with the rest returned to the United States Army Air Forces in 1943.
Brewster F2A BuffaloUnited States1942–1944Five Brewster F2A Buffalo's were provided for service with the No. 1 Photographic Reconnaissance Unit. Four were written off and the remaining aircraft was returned to the United States Army Air Forces in 1944.
Lockheed LightningP-38E LightningUnited StatesSingle-seat twin-engine long-range high-altitude fighter, photographic reconnaissance aircraft1942–1944Three P-38E's were transferred from the United States Army Air Forces for service with No. 1 Photographic Reconnaissance Unit. All three were written off in accidents.
CAC WirrawayAustraliaServed with the No. 87 (Photo Reconnaissance) Squadron
de Havilland MosquitoMosquito PR Mk 40Mosquito PR Mk 41United Kingdom
Australia
Twin-engine long-range high-altitude photographic reconnaissance aircraftBritish and Australian built de Havilland Mosquito's served in the Photographic Reconnaissance role.
General Dynamics F-111CRF-111CUnited StatesTwo-seat long-range reconnaissance aircraft1973–2010Four aircraft were purchased.
Reconnaissance (R) France Single-seat reconnaissance aircraft 1969–1988 Reconnaissance noses were fitted to several Mirage aircraft to serve as photography aircraft.
Learjet 35 United States 1982–1987 Used by the Survey Flight of No. 6 Squadron RAAF. Eight aircraft were leased to the RAAF.
E-7A Wedgetail United States Twin-engine airborne early warning and control aircraft 2009–present

Liaison/Communications

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
DH-50A United Kingdom Four-seat communications biplane 1926–1929 One aircraft
DH.50A United Kingdom Four-seat communications biplane 1943–1945 One aircraft was impressed into military service with the RAAF in 1943.
Fairchild 24GFairchild 24R United States Four-seat communications aircraft 1940–1946 Four civilian aircraft were impressed into RAAF service in 1940.
Miles Aircraft United Kingdom Communications aircraft 1940–1945 Six civilian aircraft were impressed into RAAF service in 1940.
United Kingdom Four-seat sports aircraft 1940–1946 Two civilian aircraft were impressed into RAAF service in 1940.
SR-8B Reliant United States Five-seat communications aircraft 1941–1945 One civilian aircraft was impressed into RAAF service in 1941.
United States Four-seat communications aircraft 1941–1947 Three civilian aircraft were impressed into RAAF service in 1941.
C-34 Airmaster United States Four-seat communications aircraft 1941–1945 One civilian aircraft was impressed into RAAF service in 1941.
Vega DL-1A United States Six-seat light transport aircraft 1941–1944 One civilian aircraft was impressed into RAAF service in 1941.
Junkers Aircraft Junkers G 31Junkers W.34dJunkers W.34f Germany Utility transport aircraft 1942–1943 Three civilian aircraft were impressed into RAAF service in 1942.
YQC-6 United States Five-seat cabin biplane 1942–1944 One aircraft. Impressed for communications duties with the RAAF in 1942.
UC-61A Norseman Mk VI Canada Ten-seat utility transport aircraft 1943–1946 14 aircraft
Prince Mk III United Kingdom Twin-engine eight-passenger light transport aircraft 1952–1957 Three aircraft were used at the Long Range Weapons Establishment, Woomera, South Australia.

Transport and utility

TypeVariantOriginRoleDates in ServiceNotes
DH.89 Dragon Rapide United Kingdom Twin-engine aerial survey biplane 1935–1938 One aircraft. Used by the RAAF in the 1930s for aerial surveying.
DH.89 Dragon Rapide United Kingdom Twin-engine eight or nine seat passenger airliner biplane 1940–1944 Seven aircraft. Impressed into RAAF service for training and communications duties in 1940.
Australia Twin-engine seven-seat transport, photographic survey, air ambulance aircraft 1935–1946 Six aircraft
DH.86A ExpressDH.86B Express United Kingdom Four-engine ten-seat transport biplane 1939–1945 Eight aircraft. Operated by No. 1 Air Ambulance Unit RAAF in the Mediterranean.
DH.83 Fox Moth United Kingdom Five-seat light transport biplane 1941–1945 Four aircraft
Bombay Mk I United Kingdom Twin-engine medium bomber, troop transport aircraft 1942–1944 RAF aircraft were operated by No. 1 Air Ambulance Unit RAAF. Nine aircraft
DH.90 United Kingdom Twin-engine five-seat light transport biplane 1942 only One aircraft
De Havilland Australia DHA-G2 Glider DHA-G2 GliderDHA-EG1 Glider prototype Australia Seven-seat transport glider 1942–1950 Eight aircraft
Dornier Do 24K Germany Three-engine reconnaissance, transport flying boat aircraft 1942–1944 Six aircraft
G-21A Goose Mk I United States 1942 only RAF aircraft were operated by No. 1 Air Ambulance Unit RAAF. One aircraft
Delta 1D-5 United States Eight-seat cabin aircraft 1942–1944 One civilian aircraft was impressed into RAAF service in 1942.
5-AT-C Trimotor5-AT-E Trimotor United States Three-engine 14 to 15 passenger transport, air ambulance aircraft 1942–1943 Two aircraft
C-60 LodestarC-60A Lodestar United States Twin-engine military transport, air ambulance aircraft, with a crew of three and capable of carrying fourteen passengers 1943–1947 Ten aircraft
Douglas DC-2 United States Twin-engine 14 passenger medium transport aircraft 1940–1947 14 aircraft
Douglas DC-3 United States Twin-engine passenger transport aircraft 1939–1940 Four aircraft
C-47 DakotaC-47A DakotaC-47B DakotaC-49C-50C-53 Skytrooper United States Twin-engine military transport aircraft, with a crew of three or four and capable of carrying 27 passengers 1943–1999 RAAF 124 aircraft. The Dakotas were operated by No. 30 Squadron RAAF, No. 34 Squadron RAAF, No. 36 Squadron RAAF and No. 38 Squadron RAAF.
PBM-3R Mariner United States Twin-engine long-range transport flying boat aircraft 1943–1946 12 aircraft
York C Mk 1 United Kingdom Four-engine long-range VIP transport aircraft, with a crew of five to seven 1945–1947
Proctor IV United Kingdom Four-seat communications aircraft 1945–1947 One aircraft. The Protor was operatred by the Governor-General's Flight RAAF.
Viking C Mk 2 United Kingdom Twin-engine medium transport aircraft 1947–1951 One aircraft
Freighter Mk 21 United Kingdom Twin-engine convertible passenger / freighter transport aircraft 1949–1967 Four aircraft
DHC-2 Beaver Canada Seven-seat utility transport aircraft 1955–1964 Five aircraft
CV-440 Metropolitan United States Twin-engine medium-range VIP transport aircraft 1956–1968 Two aircraft. Operated by No. 34 Squadron RAAF. See Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft
C-130A HerculesC-130E HerculesC-130H Hercules United States Four-engine medium-range, tactical transport aircraft, with a crew of four or five. 1958–present 36 aircraft. The C-130 Hercules was operated by No. 36 Squadron RAAF and No. 37 Squadron RAAF. See Lockheed C-130 Hercules in Australian service
DHC-3 Otter Canada 14-seat utility transport aircraft 1961–1967 Two aircraft
DHC-4 Caribou Canada Twin-engine light tactical transport aircraft, with a crew of two and capable of carrying 22 troops 1964–2009 28 aircraft. The Caribou was operated by No. 35 Squadron RAAF and No. 38 Squadron RAAF.
Viscount Model 720Viscount Model 756 United Kingdom Four-engine VIP transport aircraft 1964–1969 Two aircraft. Operated by No. 34 Squadron RAAF. See Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft
BAC One-Eleven 217EA United Kingdom Twin-engine 28-seat VIP transport aircraft 1967–1990 Two aircraft. Operated by No. 34 Squadron RAAF. See Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft
HS.478 Series 2 United Kingdom Twin-engine light VIP transport aircraft 1966–2004 Two aircraft. Operated by No. 34 Squadron RAAF. See Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft
Mystere 20CFalcon 20c France Twin-engine eight-passenger short-range VIP transport aircraft 1967–1989 Three aircraft. Operated by No. 34 Squadron RAAF. See Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft
Nomad N24ANomad N.22B Australia Twin-engine utility transport, reconnaissance aircraft, with a crew of two and capable of carrying 11 passengers RAAF 1989–1993 RAAF three aircraft
Boeing 707-368CBoeing 707-338C United States Four-engine air-to-air refueling tanker, long-range transport aircraft 1979–2008 Eight aircraft.The Boeing 707s were operated by No. 33 Squadron RAAF. See Qantas fleet history
Falcon 900 France Three-engine 15-passenger VIP transport aircraft 1989–2003 Five aircraft. Operated by No. 34 Squadron RAAF. See Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft
Beechcraft Super King Air (Army, RAAF) United States Twin-engine utility, light transport aircraft B200/B200C 1997–2006B350 2004– (RAAF from 2009) Australian Army 24 aircraft.
C-130J Super Hercules United States Four-engine medium-range, tactical transport aircraft 1999–present 12 aircraft
Boeing Business Jet/737 737 Boeing Business Jet United States Twin-engine special purpose passenger, VIP transport aircraft 2002–present Two aircraft. See Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft
604 Challenger Canada Twin-engine special purpose passenger, VIP transport aircraft 2002–present Three aircraft. See Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft
C-17A Globemaster III United States Four-engine heavy transport aircraft 2006–present Eight aircraft. See Boeing C-17 Globemaster III in Australian service
Airbus A330 MRTT/KC-30A KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport France Twin-engine air-to-air refueling tanker, long-range transport aircraft 2011–present
C-27A Spartan Italy Twin-engine battlefield airlifter aircraft 2015–present
Falcon 7X France 2019–present Three aircraft. Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft

Prototypes

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
Australia Military trainer Zero aircraft, none were built. Abandoned military aircraft project. Cancelled in 1986.
Type 707A United Kingdom single-seat delta-wing research aircraft 1956 WD280 is housed at the RAAF Museum in Point Cook, Victoria. One aircraft.
Jet Provost T Mk 2 United Kingdom Two-sea basic jet trainer aircraft 1959 One aircraft. Used for tests and trials by the RAAF.
Washington B Mk 1 United States Four-engine long-range bomber aircraft, with a crew of ten 1952–1956 Two aircraft. Used for weapons trials at the Long Range Weapons Establishment, Woomera, South Australia. The Washington was the British name for the B-29 Superfortress.
CA-4 WoomeraCA-11 Woomera Australia Three-seat strike reconnaissance and dive-bomber aircraft 1942–1946 Two aircraft.
CA-15 Kangaroo Australia Single-seat interceptor fighter aircraft 1946–1950 One aircraft
Australia Zero aircraft, none were built. Abandoned military aircraft project
A-25A Shrike United States Two-seat dive bomber aircraft 1943–1944 Ten aircraft
Sea Hornet F Mk 20 United Kingdom Single-seat twin-engine carrier-borne strike fighter aircraft 1948–1950 One aircraft. Acquired for tests and trials.
Drover Mk 1 Australia Three-engine eight-seat utility transport aircraft 1948–1949
Canada Two-seat primary trainer aircraft 1948–1949 One aircraft (VH-BFT). Operated by the Aircraft Research and Development Unit RAAF
Pika Australia Single-seat research aircraft, piloted target drone 1950–1954 Two aircraft. Manned prototypes of the proposed GAF Jindivik target drone.
Hawker P.1081 United Kingdom Single-seat experimental jet fighter aircraft 1950–1951 One aircraft. 75 aircraft were ordered by the RAAF in 1950, but the order was cancelled in 1951.
Typhoon Mk IB United Kingdom Single-seat fighter-bomber, ground attack aircraft 1943 Three RAF aircraft were operated by No. 451 Squadron RAAF. Used for tests and trials.
M.14A Magister United Kingdom Two-seat trainer aircraft 1938–1940 One aircraft. Acquired for tests and trials.
Valiant B Mk 1 United Kingdom Four-engine long-range bomber aircraft 1956–1957 Two aircraft. Two RAF jet bombers were used at the Long Range Weapons Establishment, Woomera, South Australia.
Wellesley Mk I United Kingdom Ground-based instructional airframe 1940-? One aircraft
Widgeon Mk IWidgeon Mk II Australia Single-engine amphibious biplane 1927–1933 Two aircraft
Warrigal Mk IWarrigal Mk II Australia Two-seat trainer biplane 1927–1933 Two built

Civilian aircraft operating under contract

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
AW139Italy Search and rescue helicopter 2018– Six helicopter are operated by CHC Helicopters
412E Canada Three helicopters are operated by CHC Helicopters
Alpha Jet A Germany 2017–2019 Three aircraft were operated by Air Affairs / Top Aces
S-76A Spirit United States Search and rescue helicopter -2018 Six helicopter were operated by CHC Helicopters

Captured enemy aircraft

World War I

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
AEG G.IVG.IVGermanyEvaluation1918One captured German aircraft, Shipped to Australia as a war trophy for the Australian War Museum, passed to the Brisbane City Council in 1921, eventually fell into disrepair and thought to have been scrapped at Archerfield in 1939.[18]
Albatros C.IC.IbGermanyEvaluation1918One captured German aircraft (Serial 4908/18). Transported to Australia for the Australian War Memorial. Offered by the Commonwealth Government to the Brisbane City Council in 1921 where it was stored while funds were sought to recondition the aircraft for display. It was passed between several organisations in the 1920s and early 1930s finding its way to Archerfield by 1932. All mention of the aircraft of the aircraft disappears from this point and it presumed that the refurbishment was abandoned and the aircraft was most likely scrapped by 1939 when the RAAF moved in to Archerfield.[19]
Albatros D.IIID.IIIGermanyEvaluation1917One captured German aircraft (Serial D636/17). At 7:30 am on Monday, 8 October 1917 Oberleutnant Gustav Adolf Dittmar of Flieger Abteilung 300 (Fl.Abt 300) was forced down at Goz el Basal by an aircraft from 111 Sqn, RFC. He and the aircraft were almost immediately captured Australian Soldiers of the 9th Light Horse Regiment who passed the aircraft on to 1 Squadron, Australian Flying Corps who repaired it and made if flyable again. Later on the aeroplane was dismantled and sent to London for examination. A section of wing fabric from 636/17 is held by the Aviation History Museum of Western Australia.
Albatros D.VaD.VaGermanyEvaluation1917At least three German examples captured by Australian Forces. They include D5359/17 captured by 1 Squadron, AFC at El Afule, Palestine; D5390/17 Captured by 3 Squadron, AFC on 17 December 1917 and now on display at Australian War Memorial in Canberra, ACT, Australia; and 7416/17 captured by Australian units at Jenin, Palestine.[20]
DFW C.VC.VGermanyEvaluation1917At least two German examples captured by Australian Forces. They include 4432/17 and another example captured by the Australian Light Horse brigade and passed to 1 Squadron, AFC at El Afule, Palestine.[21]
Fokker D.VIID.VIIGermanyEvaluation1918One of seven captured Deutsche Fokker D.VII German aircraft collected in France (Serial 8371/18), Shipped to Australia as a war trophy and believed to have been flown over Melbourne in August 1920. It might have been lost in a fire in 1925, but there are also statements that the D.VII was still in storage in 1940.[22]
Halberstadt CL.IICL.II and CL.VGermanyEvaluation1918At least three Halberstadt CL.II and one Halberstadt CL.V German aircraft were captured by Australian Forces. They include Halberstadt CL.II (serial 1534/17) flown by Gefreiter Kuesler and Vizefeldwebel Mullenbach were forced to land at the aerodrome of 3 Squadron Australian Flying Corps at Flesselles, Somme (France)on 9 June 1918 and later presented to the Australian Government as a War Trophy who in turn presented this aircraft to the Tasmanian Government; Halberstadt CL.II 8284/17; another Halberstadt CL.II captured by the Australian Light Horse at Jenin Afuleh airfield, Central Palestine; and Halberstadt CL.V 6867/18.[23]
LVG C.IIC.II, C.V and C.VIGermanyEvaluation1918–1919At least four LVG German aircraft are known to have been captured by Australian Forces. They Include two LVG C.II's. one LVG C.V and LVG C.VI 7243/18 which was forced down by Lieutenant (Lieut) V H Thornton and H N Kerr while flying Sopwith Camels of No 4 Squadron, Australian Flying Corps (AFC) near Nieppe, on 9 October 1818. 7243/18 was repaired and flown by 4 Squadron AFC and latter shipped back to Australia.
Pfalz D.IIID.IIIAGermanyEvaluation1918One captured German aircraft. This aircraft was captured on 30 May 1918 when flown by VZFW Jackob Pollinger ofJasta 776 when he ran out of fuel and was forced to descend into British lines.It was allotted British serial G/SBN/13 or G/5Bde/13. It was later claimed by the Australian Government as a war trophy and came to Australia after the war.[24]
Pfalz D.XIID.XIIGermanyEvaluation1918One captured German aircraft (Serial 2600/18). This aircraft was given to Australia under terms of the Armistice that ended the First World War. The aircraft was sent from 2 Aircraft Salvage Depot in France to the UK by cross-channel steamer in late 1919, and was subsequently shipped to Australia. Its service history is unknown, but contemporary evidence suggests that the aircraft was regarded as 'used'. This indicates that the machine may have seen active use. 2600/18 was displayed in the Memorial from the 1940s until the 1960s. During this time it was mistakenly identified as a Pfalz which was forced down after combat with aircraft from 4 Squadron AFC in 1918. Currently on display at Australian War Memorial in Canberra, ACT, Australia.
Rumpler C.VIIC and C.VIIGermanyEvaluation1918–1919At least two German Rumpler aircraft are known to have been captured by Australian Forces. They include one Rumpler C-type Serial 993? which was one of the German aircraft apportioned to Australia under the Peace Terms. This aircraft reached Australia but its ultimate fate is unknown. The second was Rumpler C.VII (Serial 7927) Operated by 4 Squadron, AFC at Bickendorf 1919.[25]

World War II

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
Breda Ba.25Ba.25 SeaplaneItalyHack1943One aircraft. Captured by No. 3 Squadron RAAF at Augusta, Sicily, Italy in September 1943. Later handed over to the Free French.[26]
Cant Z.501Z.501 GabbianoItalyFamiliarisation1943Two aircraft. Captured by No. 3 Squadron RAAF at Augusta, Sicily, Italy in September 1943 with one being made serviceable. Both were coded CV;V. They were then handed over to the Free French on RAF Orders.[27]
Caproni Ca.100Ca.100ItalyHack1943Two aircraft. Five Caproni Ca.100 trainers previously used by the Catania Aero Club, Sicily, were captured at Agnone Airfield, Sicily. Three went to No. 112 Sq RAF, and one each to No. 3 and No. 450 Sqn, RAAF. They were flown at Agnone from August–September 1943 and used for taking maintenance personnel on joy rides.[28]
Ca.309 GhibliItalyHack1943One Aircraft. Captured on 22 January 1943 at Castel Benito, Libya by 3 Squadron, RAAF and Coded CV:V. Used as a squadron hack until 4 September 1943.[29]
Fiat CR.42 FalcoCR.42 FalcoItalyFamiliarisation1941 & 1943One captured on 24 January 1941 by 3 Squadron, RAAF at Martuba (given serial A421) and another captured by 450 Squadron, RAAF at Castel Benito Airfield, Tripoli, Libya, January, 1943 and coded OK:FS.[30]
Henschel Hs 126Henschel Hs.126B-1GermanyHack/Reconnaissance1942One captured on 12 November 1942 by 450 Squadron, RAAF near Tobruk from 2.(H)/Aufklärungsgruppe 14 and coded OK. Operated as unit hack, for joy flights and even some local reconnaissance.[31]
Junkers Ju 52Junkers Ju.52/3MGermanyTransport1943One operated by 450 Squadron, RAAF. This Luftwaffe's transport aircraft Junkers Ju 52/3m was captured intact by the Australian forces at Ain-El Gazala, Libya, repainted with the Royal Australian Air Force's roundels and nicknamed "Libyan Clipper". The aircraft was used by 450 Squadron RAAF to transport mail, food supplies and small items from Cairo and back to the front line, doing two or three trips each week.Lord Casey, Governor General of Australia, came in this aircraft to see the men of the squadron. 1943.[32]
Macchi MC.205MC.205V VeltroItalyFamiliarisation1943This aircraft was captured by the Australians, at the Pachion Airfield in Sicily, Italy in the summer of 1943.[33]
Messerschmitt Bf 109Bf 109 E,Bf 109 F,BF 109 F-4,Bf 109 G-6/Trop,Bf 109 G-6/U2GermanyFamiliarisation1940–1946At least five examples are known to have been captured.Bf 109 E Wn0750 Shipped to Australia and exhibited on War Bond tours.Bf 109F & Bf 109F-4 Captured by 3 Squadron RAAF (one went on to become HK849 with the RAF).Bf 109 G/Trop (10693) "Black 6" Also captured by 3 Squadron, RAAF before being passed to the RAF to become RN228, restored to flight as G-USTV and now on display at the RAF Museum, Cosford.Bf 109 G-6/U2 (163824) is on display at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. It is the last example to retain its original wartime camouflage and markings.[34]
Messerschmitt Me 163Me 163B KometGermanyWar Prize1945One captured Luftwaffe aircraft, shipped to Australia from the United Kingdom immediately after the Second World War, on display at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, ACT, Australia. Me 163B, Werknummer 191907, this aircraft was also part of JG 400 and captured at Husum.
Messerschmitt Me 262Me 262-2a SchwalbeGermanyWar Prize1945One captured Luftwaffe aircraft, Me 262 A-2a W.Nr.500200 "Black X 9K+XK", 2 Staffel./KG 51, shipped to Australia from the United Kingdom immediately after the Second World War, on display at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, ACT, Australia.
Mitsubishi A6M Zero A6M2 & A6M5JapanEvaluation1942–1945Several examples captured including A6M5 5622 which was operated by 79 Squadron.[35]
Mitsubishi Ki-21Ki-21 IIaJapanSurrender Aircraft1945One aircraft surrendered to the Allies in October 1945 at Moratai carrying Lieutenant-General Ichi (Supreme Commander of the Japanese forces in the Celebes), transferred to the RAAF and then the Australian War Memorial before being scrapped in the 1960s.[36]
Mitsubishi Ki-51Ki-51JapanHack1944–1945Several examples captured including one which was captured at Kenigau made airworthy by 4 Squadron, RAAF and flown and operated on Labuan Island coded QE-?[37]
Tachikawa Ki-54Ki-54cJapanSurrender Aircraft1945One aircraft. Operated by the 10th Dokuritsu Hikodan Shireibu and flown into Labuan Island on 10 September 1945 for a Surrender Ceremony at the Headquarters of 9th Division, Australian Army by Lieutenant General Masao Baba to Major General Sir George Frederick Wootten. Lieutenant General Baba was Supreme Commander of Japanese Forces in Borneo and commanded the 37th Japanese Army. The aircraft was shipped form Borneo to RAAF Base Laverton, Australia and its fuselage is in the collection of the Australian War Memorial.[38]

Drones/RAV

Aircraft typeVariantOriginRoleService periodNotes
Jindivik Mk IJindivik Mk 2Jindivik Mk 2BJindivik Mk 102Jindivik Mk 3Jindivik Mk 3A Australia Radio controlled pilotless target drone 1952–1986, 1997 Name is from an Aboriginal Australian word meaning the hunted one
Israel ISR MALE UAV 2010–2017 Five machines. Operated by No. 5 Flight RAAF

List of weapons of the Royal Australian Air Force

Guided Missiles

ModelVariantsOriginRoleService periodNotes
United States Air-to-surface guided missile Obsolete, no longer in service with the RAAF. Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet.
AGM-84A United States Air-to-surface anti-ship missile 1981-Current Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet, F-111C and F-111G Aardvark, P-3C Orion and AP-3C Orion.
AGM-88E United States Air-to-surface anti-radiation missile Current Carried by the EA-18G Growler.
AGM-142 Israel Air-to-surface missile Current Carried by the F-111C and F-111G Aardvark.
AGM-154C United States Glide bomb Current
United States Air-launched air-to-surface cruise missile Current Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet.
AIM-7M United States Medium-range air-to-air missile 1985–2002 Obsolete, no longer in service with the RAAF. Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet.
AIM-9BAIM-9MAIM-9X United States Short-range air-to-air missile 1960-Current Carried by the CAC CA-26 Sabre, Mirage IIIO, F/A-18 Hornet, F-111C and F-111G Aardvark.
United States Medium-range air-to-air missile 2002-Current Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet.
United Kingdom Short-range air-to-air missile 2004–2021Obsolete, no longer in service with the RAAF. Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet.
United Kingdom Surface-to-air missile 1963–1968 Obsolete, no longer in service with the RAAF. The Bloodhound missiles were operated by No. 30 Squadron RAAF.
United States Air-to-surface laser-guided bomb Current Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet, F-111C and F-111G Aardvark.
United States Air-to-surface laser-guided bomb 1982-Current Carried by the Mirage IIIO and F/A-18 Hornet, F-111C and F-111G Aardvark.
United States Precision guided munition 1984-Current Carried by the F-111C and F-111G Aardvark.
United States Air-to-surface laser-guided bomb Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet.
United States Bomb guidance kit Current
United States Lightweight anti-submarine torpedo Current Carried by the P-3B, P-3C and AP-3C Orion.
France / Italy Lightweight anti-submarine torpedo Current Carried by the AP-3C Orion
France Short-to-medium range air-to-air missile 1965-1980s Obsolete, no longer in service with the RAAF. Carried by the Mirage IIIO
France Short-range air-to-air missile 1983–1988 Obsolete, no longer in service with the RAAF. Carried by the Mirage IIIO

Unguided rockets

ModelOriginRoleService Period Notes
United States 70-mm (2.75-inch) air-to-surface rockets 1960s- Carried by the UH-1 Iroquois helicopter. Used by the RAAF during the Vietnam War.
United States 70-mm (2.75-inch) air-to-surface rockets
RP-3 Rocket Projectile United Kingdom 3-inch air-to-ground rocket projectiles 1940s-1970s

Free fall bombs

ModelOriginRole
United States 500-lb (230-kg) low drag general-purpose bomb
United States 1000-lb (454-kg) low drag general-purpose bomb
United States 2000-lb (907-kg) low-drag general-purpose bomb

Machine-guns

ModelOriginRoleNotes
United States Carried by the UH-1 Iroquois helicopters.
United States Six-barrel rotary machine gun Carried by the UH-1 Iroquois helicopter.

See also

Bibliography

Notes and References

  1. Web site: The Inter-war years 1921 to 1939 . Royal Australian Air Force . 25 February 2010 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20090930134035/http://www.raaf.gov.au/history/interwar.aspx . 30 September 2009 .
  2. Aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force, 2021. p. 12
  3. Web site: Avro 504A/B/J/K . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au . Brendan . Cowan . Batman . Mark . Mark . 8 September 2014 . 22 December 2016.
  4. Web site: Aircraft of Central Flying School 1909–1918 . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au . Crick . Darren . Cowan . Brendan . Edwards . Martin . 28 February 2015 . 22 December 2016.
  5. Web site: AFC Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2c & B.E.2e . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au . Cowan . Brendan . Lax . Mark . 2 September 2014 . 22 December 2016.
  6. Web site: AMC/Airco D.H.1 . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au . Cowan . Brendan . Lax . Mark . 29 September 2014 . 22 December 2016.
  7. Web site: AFC Airco D.H.5 . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au . Brendan . Cowan . 27 August 2015 . 22 December 2016.
  8. Web site: 21 December 2016. RAAF A1 de Havilland D.H.9a. adf-serials.com.au. Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History. Crick. Darren. 31 March 2016.
  9. Aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force, 2021. p. 425
  10. Web site: AFC Bristol Fighter F.2b . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au . Brendan . Cowan . Mark . Lax . 25 April 2015 . 22 December 2016.
  11. Web site: AFC Armstrong Whitworth FK.3 . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au . Brendan . Cowan . 2015 . 22 December 2016.
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