List of aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force
RAAF F-35A Lightning II , F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler combat aircraft flying in formation during 2022
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
Type
Origin
Class
Role
Introduced
Retired
Total
Notes
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[ 4]
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[ 4]
built by Grahame-White Aviation Company; operated by Central Flying School[ 4]
CA-25 Winjeel
Australia
prop
trainer
1955
1995
62 Production + 2 Prototypes[ 4]
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[ 4]
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[ 4]
operated by Central Flying School[ 4]
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[ 4]
2 additional aircraft ordered by Central Flying School but lost at sea during delivery;[ 4] 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
F-111G Aardvark
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[ 4]
operated by Central Flying School[ 4]
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[ 4]
operated by Central Flying School as CFS7[ 4]
M.F.7 Longhorn
France
biplane
trainer
1916
1918
1[ 4]
operated by Central Flying School as CFS15[ 4]
M.F.11 Shorthorn
France
biplane
trainer
1916
1919
5[ 4]
operated by Central Flying School[ 4]
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[ 4]
operated by Central Flying School and No. 1 Flying Training School RAAF[ 4]
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
Aircraft type
Variant
Origin
Role
Service Period
Notes
Airco DH.6
DH.6
United Kingdom
Two-seat primary trainer biplane
1918–1919
Nine aircraft
Avro 504
Avro 504K
United Kingdom
Two-seat trainer biplane
1919–1920
20 aircraft
Bleriot XI
Bleriot XI
France
Trainer aircraft
1915–1917
One aircraft was donated to the Australian Central Flying School in 1915.
Bristol Boxkite
Boxkite
United Kingdom
Two-seat trainer biplane
1912–1918
Two aircraft
Bristol Scout
Scout D
United Kingdom
Single-seat trainer biplane
1916–1926
One ex-Royal Naval Air Service aircraft
Caudron G.3
G.3
France
Two-seat trainer biplane
1916–1918
One aircraft
Deperdussin Type A
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
Maurice Farman MF.7 Longhorn
MF.7 Shorthorn
France
Two-seat trainer biplane
1916–1917
One aircraft
Maurice Farman MF.11 Shorthorn
MF.11 Shorthorn
France
Two-seat trainer biplane
1917–1919
Four aircraft
Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2
B.E.2a, B.E.2b
United Kingdom
Two-seat trainer biplane
1912–1920
Three aircraft
Royal Aircraft Factory F.E.2
F.E.2b
United Kingdom
Two-seat trainer biplane
1917–1920
One aircraft was donated to the Australian Central Flying School in 1917.
Sopwith Pup
Pup
United Kingdom
Single-seat fighter trainer biplane
1919–1920
12 aircraft
Australian Flying Corps 1913–1920
Aircraft type
Variant
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
Airco DH.1
DH.1a
United Kingdom
Two-seat fighter scout biplane
1916
One aircraft. Operated by No. 1 Squadron
Airco DH.5
DH.5
United Kingdom
Single-seat fighter scout biplane
1917-?
68 aircraft. Operated by No. 2 Squadron and No. 6 (Training) Squadron
Airco DH.6
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
Avro 504
504A 504J 504K
United Kingdom
Two-seat elementary trainer biplane
1917–1919
Operated by Nos 5 , 6 , 7 and 8 Training Squadrons
Bristol F.2 Fighter
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 .
Bristol Scout
Scout C Scout D
United Kingdom
Single-seat fighter scout, reconnaissance, trainer biplane
1916-?
Ten aircraft. Operated by No. 1 Squadron and No. 6 (Training) Squadron
Caudron G.3
G.3
France
Two-seat reconnaissance biplane
1915 only
Two aircraft. Operated by the Mesopotamian Half Flight
Curtiss JN-4 Jenny
JN-4 Jenny
United States
Two-seat primary trainer biplane
1917-?
Handley Page 0/400
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
Martinsyde Elephant
G.100 Elephant G.102 Elephant
United Kingdom
Single-seat bomber, reconnaissance, obsolete fighter scout biplane
1916–1918
Operated by No. 1 Squadron in Egypt and Palestine.
Maurice Farman MF.7 Longhorn
MF.7 Longhorn
France
Two-seat reconnaissance biplane
1915 only
One aircraft. Operated by the Mesopotamian Half Flight
Maurice Farman MF.11 Shorthorn
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
Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2
B.E.2c B.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 .
Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.12
B.E.12 B.E.12a
United Kingdom
Single-seat reconnaissance, light bomber, obsolete fighter biplane
?-1919
Nine aircraft. Operated by No. 1 Squadron in Palestine.
Royal Aircraft Factory R.E.8
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
Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.5
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.
Sopwith Buffalo
3F.1 Buffalo
United Kingdom
Two-seat armoured fighter, reconnaissance biplane
1918
One aircraft. Operated by No. 4 Squadron for test and trials.
Sopwith Camel
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.
Sopwith Pup
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.
Sopwith Snipe
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.
Sopwith 1½ Strutter
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
Fighters and fighter-bombers
Aircraft type
Variant
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.5A
S.E.5A
United Kingdom
Single-seat fighter biplane
1921–1928
35 aircraft. Imperial Gift aircraft
Bristol Bulldog
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 .
Gloster Gauntlet
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.
Gloster Gladiator
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.
Hawker Demon
Demon Mk I Demon Mk II
United Kingdom
Two-seat fighter biplane
1935–1945
64 aircraft.
Boulton Paul Defiant
Defiant Mk I Defiant 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.
Curtiss Tomahawk
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.
Hawker Hurricane
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.
Supermarine Spitfire
Spitfire F Mk VC Spitfire F Mk VIII Spitfire HF Mk VIII Spitfire 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.
Brewster Buffalo
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 .
Bell Airacobra
P-39D Airacobra P-39F Airacobra P-400 Airacobra Mk I
United States
Single-seat fighter aircraft
1942–1943
22 aircraft. Loaned to the RAAF by the USAAF.
DAP/Bristol Beaufighter
Beaufighter Mk 21
United Kingdom Australia
Two-seat twin-engine strike fighter aircraft
1942–1957
581 aircraft
Bristol Beaufighter
Beaufighter MK IC Beaufighter Mk VIC Beaufighter TF Mk X Beaufighter 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.
Curtiss Kittyhawk
P-40E Kittyhawk Mk IA P-40K Kittyhawk Mk III P-40M Kittyhawk Mk III P-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.
CAC Boomerang
CA-12 Boomerang Mk I CA-13 Boomerang Mk II CA-14 Boomerang CA-14A prototype CA-19 Boomerang
Australia
Single-seat interceptor, ground-attack fighter aircraft
1942–1946
250 aircraft
De Havilland Mosquito
Mosquito F MK II Mosquito T Mk III Mosquito FB Mk VI Mosquito PR Mk XVI Mosquito FB Mk 40 Mosquito PR Mk 40 Mosquito PR Mk 41 Mosquito T Mk 43
United Kingdom Australia
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.
North American Mustang
P-51D Mustang P-51K Mustang CA-17 Mustang Mk 20 CA-18 Mustang Mk 21 CA-18 Mustang PR Mk 22 CA-18 Mustang Mk 23
United States Australia
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 .
De Havilland Vampire
Vampire F Mk 1 Vampire F Mk 2 Vampire FB Mk 5
United Kingdom
Single-seat fighter, fighter bomber aircraft
1948–1957
Three aircraft
De Havilland Vampire
Vampire F MK 30 Vampire FB Mk 31 Vampire T Mk 33 Vampire TMk 34 Vampire T Mk 34A Vampire T Mk 35 Vampire T Mk 35A
United Kingdom Australia
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 .
Gloster Meteor
Meteor F Mk 3 Meteor F Mk 8 Meteor NF MK 11 Meteor T Mk 7 Meteor 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 .
CAC/North American Sabre
CA-26 Prototype CA-27 Sabre Mk 30 CA-27 Sabre Mk 31 CA-27 Sabre Mk 32
United States Australia
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 .
GAF/Dassault Mirage III
Mirage IIID Mirage IIIO(A) Mirage IIIO(F)
France Australia
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 .
GAF/McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet
F/A-18A Hornet F/A-18B Hornet
United States Australia
Single-seat multi-role fighter-attack aircraft
1985–2021
75 aircraft. The Hornets were operated by No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit RAAF , No. 3 Squadron RAAF , No. 75 Squadron RAAF and No. 77 Squadron RAAF . See McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet in Australian service
Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet
F/A-18F Super Hornet
United States
Two-seat multi-role fighter-attack aircraft
2010–present
Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II
F-35A
United States
single-seat multi-role fighter aircraft
2014–present
Boeing EA-18G Growler
EF-18A Growler
United States
Two-seat electronic warfare aircraft
2015–present
12 Aircraft
Bombers
Aircraft type
Variant
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
Airco DH.9
DH.9
United Kingdom
Two-seat day bomber, general-purpose biplane
1921–1930
28 aircraft. Imperial Gift aircraft
Airco DH.9A
DH.9A
United Kingdom
Two-seat day bomber biplane
1921–1929
30 aircraft
Vickers Vimy
FB.27A Vimy II
United Kingdom
Twin-engine heavy bomber
1921-?
One aircraft
Westland Wapiti
Wapiti Mk IA Wapiti Mk IIA
United Kingdom
Two-seat general-purpose, light bomber biplane
1929–1943
44 aircraft. Used as trainer and target tug aircraft.
Lockheed Hudson
Hudson Mk I Hudson Mk II Hudson Mk IIIA Hudson IV Hudson 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
DAP/Bristol Beaufort
Beaufort Mk V Beaufort Mk VA Beaufort Mk VI Beaufort Mk VII Beaufort Mk VIII Beaufort Mk IX
United Kingdom Australia
Twin-engine torpedo bomber aircraft, with a crew of four
1941–1946
701 aircraft
Vultee Vengeance
Vengeance Mk I Vengeance Mk IA Vengeance Mk II Vengeance Mk IV
United States
Two-seat dive bomber aircraft
1942–1946
342 aircraft. See Vultee Vengeance in Australian service
Douglas Boston
DB-7B Boston Mk III A-20A Boston A-20C Boston A-20G Boston
United States
Twin-engine light attack bomber aircraft, with a crew of three
1942–1945
69 aircraft
Vickers Wellington
Wellington Mk IC Wellington Mk III Wellington Mk IV Wellington Mk VIII Wellington Mk X Wellington Mk XI Wellington Mk XII Wellington Mk XIII Wellington 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
Handley Page Hampden
Hampden Mk I Hampden TB Mk I
United Kingdom
Four-seat twin-engine medium bomber, torpedo bomber
1941–1942
70 aircraft. RAF aircraft were operated by No. 455 Squadron RAAF . RAF variants were the Hampden Mk I and TB Mk I.
Bristol Blenheim
Blenheim Mk I Blenheim Mk IV Blenheim 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.
Handley Page Halifax
Halifax Mk II Halifax 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
Lockheed Ventura
RB-34A Ventura PV-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.
Martin Baltimore
Baltimore Mk III Baltimore Mk IIIA Baltimore Mk IV Baltimore 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
North American Mitchell
B-25D Mitchell B-25J Mitchell Mk III
United States
Twin-engine medium bomber aircraft, with a crew of 5 or 6
1942–1946
50 aircraft
Avro Manchester
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.
Avro Lancaster
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
Consolidated Liberator
B-24D Liberator B-24J Liberator B-24L Liberator B-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
GAF/Avro Lincoln
Lincoln Mk 30 Lincoln Mk 30A Lincoln GR Mk 31 Lincoln MR Mk 31
United Kingdom Australia
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 .
GAF/English Electric Canberra
Canberra B Mk 2 Canberra Mk 20 Canberra Mk 21 Canberra T Mk 4
United Kingdom Australia
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 .
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II
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 Aardvark F-111C Aardvark F-111G Aardvark RF-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 type
Variant
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
Fairey IIID
Fairey IIID
United Kingdom
Three-seat spotter-reconnaissance, survey seaplane
1921–1928
RAAF on behalf of the RAN. Six aircraft
Supermarine Seagull
Seagull Mk III
United Kingdom
Three-seat spotter-reconnaissance, survey amphibian aircraft
1926–1936
RAAF on behalf of the RAN. Nine aircraft
Supermarine Southampton
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 V Walrus Mk I Walrus Mk III
United Kingdom
Three-seat air/sea rescue, maritime patrol amphibian aircraft
1935–1947
RAAF on behalf of the RAN. 61 aircraft
Short S.23 Empire
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 .
Short S.26 G Class Flying Boat
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
Short Sunderland
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.
Consolidated Catalina
PBY-4 Catalina PBY-5 Catalina PBY-5A Catalina PB2B-1 Catalina PB2B-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
Fairey Swordfish
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.
Vought Kingfisher
OS2U-3 Kingfisher
United States
Two-seat reconnaissance aircraft
1942–1948
18 aircraft
Lockheed Neptune
P2V-4 Neptune P2V-5 (P-2E) Neptune P2V-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 .
Lockheed P-3 Orion
P-3B Orion P-3C Orion AP-3C Orion TAP-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 .
Lockheed AP-3C Orion
AP-3C Orion
United States
Four-engine maritime patrol aircraft
2002–present
Boeing P-8 Poseidon
P-8A Poseidon
United States
2016–present
Army Cooperation
Trainers
Aircraft type
Variant
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
Bristol Scout D
Scout D
United Kingdom
1921–1926
One aircraft
Avro 504
Avro 504K Avro 504L floatplane
United Kingdom Australia
Two-seat trainer biplane
1922–1928
61 aircraft. Imperial Gift aircraft
Sopwith Pup
Pup
United Kingdom
Single-seat fighter trainer biplane
1922–1925
11 aircraft used as fighter trainers
De Havilland Cirrus Moth
D.H.60 Cirrus I Moth D.H.60X Cirrus Moth
United Kingdom
Two-seat elementary trainer biplane
1926–1935
34 aircraft
De Havilland Gipsy Moth
D.H.60G Gipsy Moth D.H.60G-III Moth Major D.H.60M (Metal) Moth
United Kingdom Australia
Two-seat elementary trainer biplane
1930–1946
98 aircraft
Avro Cadet
Cadet Mk II
United Kingdom
Two-seat intermediate trainer biplane
1935–1945
34 aircraft
Airspeed Oxford
Oxford Mk I Oxford Mk II
United Kingdom
Twin-engine three-seat advanced trainer aircraft
1940–1953
391 aircraft
de Havilland Dragon
DH.84 Dragon Mk I DH.84 Dragon Mk II DH.84 Dragon III
United Kingdom Australia
Twin-engine six or eight passenger feeder airliner biplane
1940–1945
98 aircraft. Built and impressed for trainer and communications duties with the RAAF.
Avro Anson
Anson GR Mk I Anson Mk XII Anson Mk XIV Anson T Mk I
United Kingdom
Twin-engine general reconnaissance bomber, trainer aircraft
1937–1955
1020 aircraft
CAC Wirraway
CA-1 Wirraway CA-3 Wirraway CA-5 Wirraway CA-7 Wirraway CA-8 Wirraway CA-9 Wirraway CA-16 Wirraway
Australia
Two-seat trainer, general purpose aircraft
1939–1958
755 aircraft
De Havilland Tiger Moth
DH.82A Tiger Moth
United Kingdom Australia
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 .
De Havilland Moth Minor
DH.94 Moth Minor
United Kingdom Australia
Two-seat elementary trainer aircraft
1940–1945
42 aircraft used in the Empire Air Training Scheme.
Douglas Dolphin
United States
Twin-engine eight-seat amphibian aircraft
1940–1944
Four civilian aircraft were impressed into RAAF service in 1940.
Fairey Battle
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 Prototypes CA-6 Wackett Trainer
Australia
Two-seat intermediate trainer aircraft
1940–1946
202 aircraft
Ryan ST M
Ryan STM-2
United States
Two-seat primary trainer aircraft
1942–1945
34 aircraft
CAC Winjeel
CA-22 prototype CA-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
Hawker Siddeley HS.748
HS 748 Series 2
United Kingdom
Twin-engine navigation trainer aircraft
1966–2004
Ten aircraft
CAC/Macchi MB-326H
CAC CA-30, MB-326H
Italy Australia
Two-seat basic and advanced jet trainer aircraft
1968–2001
87 aircraft
PAC CT/4 Airtrainer
CT/4A Airtrainer
New Zealand
Two-seat primary trainer aircraft
1975–1993
51 aircraft
Pilatus PC-9
PC-9/A
Switzerland Australia
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 Kingdom Australia
Two-seat advanced jet trainer, lead-in fighter trainer, light attack fighter aircraft
2000–present
33 aircraft
Pilatus PC-21
PC-21
Switzerland
Two-set pilot trainer aircraft
2016–present
Australian Defence Force Basic Flying Training School 1993–2019
Aircraft
Variants
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
Mudry CAP 10
CAP 10B
France
Two-seat aerobatic aircraft
2005–2019
Three aircraft
PAC CT/4 Airtrainer
CT/4A, CT/4B, CT/4E
New Zealand
Two-seat primary trainer aircraft
1993–2019
Piper PA-34 Seneca
PA-34-220T
United States
Twin-engined light aircraft
2005–2019
Two aircraft
Helicopters
Reconnaissance and intelligence
Aircraft type
Variant
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
Republic Lancer
P-43A Lancer
United States
Single-seat fighter, photographic reconnaissance aircraft
1942–1943
Eight 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 Buffalo
United States
1942–1944
Five 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 Lightning
P-38E Lightning
United States
Single-seat twin-engine long-range high-altitude fighter, photographic reconnaissance aircraft
1942–1944
Three 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 Wirraway
Australia
Served with the No. 87 (Photo Reconnaissance) Squadron
de Havilland Mosquito
Mosquito PR Mk 40 Mosquito PR Mk 41
United Kingdom Australia
Twin-engine long-range high-altitude photographic reconnaissance aircraft
British and Australian built de Havilland Mosquito's served in the Photographic Reconnaissance role.
General Dynamics F-111C
RF-111C
United States
Two-seat long-range reconnaissance aircraft
1973–2010
Four aircraft were purchased.
Dassault Mirage IIIO(A)
Reconnaissance (R)
France
Single-seat reconnaissance aircraft
1969–1988
Reconnaissance noses were fitted to several Mirage aircraft to serve as photography aircraft.
Gates Learjet 35
Learjet 35
United States
1982–1987
Used by the Survey Flight of No. 6 Squadron RAAF . Eight aircraft were leased to the RAAF.
Boeing 737 AEW&C
E-7A Wedgetail
United States
Twin-engine airborne early warning and control aircraft
2009–present
Liaison/Communications
Aircraft type
Variant
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
de Havilland DH.50A
DH-50A
United Kingdom
Four-seat communications biplane
1926–1929
One aircraft
de Havilland DH.50A
DH.50A
United Kingdom
Four-seat communications biplane
1943–1945
One aircraft was impressed into military service with the RAAF in 1943.
Fairchild 24
Fairchild 24G Fairchild 24R
United States
Four-seat communications aircraft
1940–1946
Four civilian aircraft were impressed into RAAF service in 1940.
Miles Aircraft
Miles Falcon Six Falcon MajorMiles Hawk Major Miles Merlin
United Kingdom
Communications aircraft
1940–1945
Six civilian aircraft were impressed into RAAF service in 1940.
Percival Vega Gull
United Kingdom
Four-seat sports aircraft
1940–1946
Two civilian aircraft were impressed into RAAF service in 1940.
Stinson Reliant
SR-8B Reliant
United States
Five-seat communications aircraft
1941–1945
One civilian aircraft was impressed into RAAF service in 1941.
Beech 17 Staggerwing
United States
Four-seat communications aircraft
1941–1947
Three civilian aircraft were impressed into RAAF service in 1941.
Cessna Airmaster
C-34 Airmaster
United States
Four-seat communications aircraft
1941–1945
One civilian aircraft was impressed into RAAF service in 1941.
Lockheed Vega
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 31 Junkers W.34d Junkers W.34f
Germany
Utility transport aircraft
1942–1943
Three civilian aircraft were impressed into RAAF service in 1942.
Waco YQC-6
YQC-6
United States
Five-seat cabin biplane
1942–1944
One aircraft. Impressed for communications duties with the RAAF in 1942.
Noorduyn Norseman
UC-61A Norseman Mk VI
Canada
Ten-seat utility transport aircraft
1943–1946
14 aircraft
Percival Prince
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
Type
Variant
Origin
Role
Dates in Service
Notes
de Havilland Dragon Rapide
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.
de Havilland Dragon Rapide
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.
Wackett / Tugan Gannet
Australia
Twin-engine seven-seat transport, photographic survey, air ambulance aircraft
1935–1946
Six aircraft
de Havilland Express
DH.86A Express DH.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.
de Havilland Fox Moth
DH.83 Fox Moth
United Kingdom
Five-seat light transport biplane
1941–1945
Four aircraft
Bristol Bombay
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
de Havilland Dragonfly
DH.90
United Kingdom
Twin-engine five-seat light transport biplane
1942 only
One aircraft
De Havilland Australia DHA-G2 Glider
DHA-G2 Glider DHA-EG1 Glider prototype
Australia
Seven-seat transport glider
1942–1950
Eight aircraft
Dornier Do 24
Dornier Do 24K
Germany
Three-engine reconnaissance, transport flying boat aircraft
1942–1944
Six aircraft
Grumman Goose
G-21A Goose Mk I
United States
1942 only
RAF aircraft were operated by No. 1 Air Ambulance Unit RAAF . One aircraft
Northrop Delta
Delta 1D-5
United States
Eight-seat cabin aircraft
1942–1944
One civilian aircraft was impressed into RAAF service in 1942.
Ford Trimotor
5-AT-C Trimotor 5-AT-E Trimotor
United States
Three-engine 14 to 15 passenger transport, air ambulance aircraft
1942–1943
Two aircraft
Lockheed Lodestar
C-60 Lodestar C-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
Douglas DC-2
United States
Twin-engine 14 passenger medium transport aircraft
1940–1947
14 aircraft
Douglas DC-3
Douglas DC-3
United States
Twin-engine passenger transport aircraft
1939–1940
Four aircraft
Douglas C-47 Dakota
C-47 Dakota C-47A Dakota C-47B Dakota C-49 C-50 C-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 .
Martin Mariner
PBM-3R Mariner
United States
Twin-engine long-range transport flying boat aircraft
1943–1946
12 aircraft
Avro York
York C Mk 1
United Kingdom
Four-engine long-range VIP transport aircraft, with a crew of five to seven
1945–1947
One aircraft. The aircraft was operated by the Governor-General's Flight RAAF . See Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft
Percival Proctor
Proctor IV
United Kingdom
Four-seat communications aircraft
1945–1947
One aircraft. The Protor was operatred by the Governor-General's Flight RAAF .
Vickers VC.1 Viking
Viking C Mk 2
United Kingdom
Twin-engine medium transport aircraft
1947–1951
One aircraft
Bristol Freighter
Freighter Mk 21
United Kingdom
Twin-engine convertible passenger / freighter transport aircraft
1949–1967
Four aircraft
De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver
DHC-2 Beaver
Canada
Seven-seat utility transport aircraft
1955–1964
Five aircraft
Convair 440 Metropolitan
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
Lockheed C-130 Hercules
C-130A Hercules C-130E Hercules C-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
De Havilland Canada DHC-3 Otter
DHC-3 Otter
Canada
14-seat utility transport aircraft
1961–1967
Two aircraft
De Havilland Canada DHC-4 Caribou
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 .
Vickers Viscount
Viscount Model 720 Viscount 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
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
Hawker Siddeley HS 748
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
Dassault Falcon 20
Mystere 20C Falcon 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
GAF Nomad
Nomad N24A Nomad 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
Boeing 707-368C Boeing 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
Dassault Falcon 900
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 1997–2006 B350 2004– (RAAF from 2009)
Australian Army 24 aircraft.
Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules
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
Bombardier Challenger 604
604 Challenger
Canada
Twin-engine special purpose passenger, VIP transport aircraft
2002–present
Three aircraft. See Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft
Boeing C-17 Globemaster III
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
Alenia C-27J Spartan
C-27A Spartan
Italy
Twin-engine battlefield airlifter aircraft
2015–present
Dassault Falcon 7X
Falcon 7X
France
2019–present
Three aircraft. Royal Australian Air Force VIP aircraft
Prototypes
Aircraft type
Variant
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
AAC Wamira
Australia
Military trainer
Zero aircraft, none were built. Abandoned military aircraft project. Cancelled in 1986.
Avro 707
Type 707A
United Kingdom
single-seat delta-wing research aircraft
1956
WD280 is housed at the RAAF Museum in Point Cook, Victoria. One aircraft.
BAC Jet Provost
Jet Provost T Mk 2
United Kingdom
Two-sea basic jet trainer aircraft
1959
One aircraft. Used for tests and trials by the RAAF.
Boeing Washington
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.
CAC CA-11 Woomera
CA-4 Woomera CA-11 Woomera
Australia
Three-seat strike reconnaissance and dive-bomber aircraft
1942–1946
Two aircraft.
CAC CA-15 Kangaroo
CA-15 Kangaroo
Australia
Single-seat interceptor fighter aircraft
1946–1950
One aircraft
CAC CA-23
Australia
Zero aircraft, none were built. Abandoned military aircraft project
Curtiss Shrike
A-25A Shrike
United States
Two-seat dive bomber aircraft
1943–1944
Ten aircraft
De Havilland Sea Hornet
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.
De Havilland Australia DHA-3 Drover
Drover Mk 1
Australia
Three-engine eight-seat utility transport aircraft
1948–1949
One aircraft (VH-DHA). Operated by the Aircraft Research and Development Unit RAAF
De Havilland Canada DHC-1 Chipmunk
Canada
Two-seat primary trainer aircraft
1948–1949
One aircraft (VH-BFT). Operated by the Aircraft Research and Development Unit RAAF
GAF Pika
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
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.
Hawker Typhoon
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.
Miles Magister
M.14A Magister
United Kingdom
Two-seat trainer aircraft
1938–1940
One aircraft. Acquired for tests and trials.
Vickers Valiant
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 .
Vickers Wellesley
Wellesley Mk I
United Kingdom
Ground-based instructional airframe
1940-?
One aircraft
Wackett Widgeon
Widgeon Mk I Widgeon Mk II
Australia
Single-engine amphibious biplane
1927–1933
Two aircraft
Wackett Warrigal
Warrigal Mk I Warrigal Mk II
Australia
Two-seat trainer biplane
1927–1933
Two built
Civilian aircraft operating under contract
Aircraft
Variant
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
Beechcraft 1900
Model 1900C
United States
2005-2016
One aircraft
Hot air balloons
Captured enemy aircraft
World War I
Aircraft type
Variant
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
AEG G.IV
G.IV
Germany
Evaluation
1918
One 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.I
C.Ib
Germany
Evaluation
1918
One 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.III
D.III
Germany
Evaluation
1917
One 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.[ 19]
Albatros D.Va
D.Va
Germany
Evaluation
1917
At 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.V
C.V
Germany
Evaluation
1917
At 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.VII
D.VII
Germany
Evaluation
1918
One 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.II
CL.II and CL.V
Germany
Evaluation
1918
At 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.II
C.II, C.V and C.VI
Germany
Evaluation
1918–1919
At 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.[ 18]
Pfalz D.III
D.IIIA
Germany
Evaluation
1918
One 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.XII
D.XII
Germany
Evaluation
1918
One 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.[ 24]
Rumpler C.VII
C and C.VII
Germany
Evaluation
1918–1919
At 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 type
Variant
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
Breda Ba.25
Ba.25 Seaplane
Italy
Hack
1943
One aircraft. Captured by No. 3 Squadron RAAF at Augusta, Sicily , Italy in September 1943. Later handed over to the Free French.[ 26]
Cant Z.501
Z.501 Gabbiano
Italy
Familiarisation
1943
Two 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.100
Ca.100
Italy
Hack
1943
Two 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]
Caproni Ca.309
Ca.309 Ghibli
Italy
Hack
1943
One 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 Falco
CR.42 Falco
Italy
Familiarisation
1941 & 1943
One 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 126
Henschel Hs.126B-1
Germany
Hack/Reconnaissance
1942
One 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 52
Junkers Ju.52/3M
Germany
Transport
1943
One 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.205
MC.205V Veltro
Italy
Familiarisation
1943
This aircraft was captured by the Australians, at the Pachion Airfield in Sicily, Italy in the summer of 1943.[ 33]
Messerschmitt Bf 109
Bf 109 E,
Bf 109 F,
BF 109 F-4,
Bf 109 G-6/Trop,
Bf 109 G-6/U2
Germany
Familiarisation
1940–1946
At 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 163
Me 163B Komet
Germany
War Prize
1945
One 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 262
Me 262-2a Schwalbe
Germany
War Prize
1945
One 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 & A6M5
Japan
Evaluation
1942–1945
Several examples captured including A6M5 5622 which was operated by 79 Squadron.[ 35]
Mitsubishi Ki-21
Ki-21 IIa
Japan
Surrender Aircraft
1945
One 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-51
Ki-51
Japan
Hack
1944–1945
Several 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-54
Ki-54c
Japan
Surrender Aircraft
1945
One 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 type
Variant
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
A92 GAF Jindivik
Jindivik Mk I Jindivik Mk 2 Jindivik Mk 2B Jindivik Mk 102 Jindivik Mk 3 Jindivik Mk 3A
Australia
Radio controlled pilotless target drone
1952–1986, 1997
Name is from an Aboriginal Australian word meaning the hunted one
A45 IAI Heron
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
Model
Variants
Origin
Role
Service period
Notes
AGM-65 Maverick
United States
Air-to-surface guided missile
Obsolete, no longer in service with the RAAF. Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet.
AGM-84 Harpoon
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-88 HARM
AGM-88E
United States
Air-to-surface anti-radiation missile
Current
Carried by the EA-18G Growler.
AGM-142 Popeye
AGM-142
Israel
Air-to-surface missile
Current
Carried by the F-111C and F-111G Aardvark.
AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon
AGM-154C
United States
Glide bomb
Current
AGM-158 JASSM
United States
Air-launched air-to-surface cruise missile
Current
Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet.
AIM-7 Sparrow
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-9 Sidewinder
AIM-9B AIM-9M AIM-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.
AIM-120 AMRAAM
United States
Medium-range air-to-air missile
2002-Current
Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet.
ASRAAM
United Kingdom
Short-range air-to-air missile
2004–2021
Obsolete, no longer in service with the RAAF. Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet.
Bloodhound
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 .
GBU-10 Paveway II
United States
Air-to-surface laser-guided bomb
Current
Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet, F-111C and F-111G Aardvark.
GBU-12 Paveway II
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.
GBU-15
United States
Precision guided munition
1984-Current
Carried by the F-111C and F-111G Aardvark.
GBU-16
United States
Air-to-surface laser-guided bomb
Carried by the F/A-18 Hornet.
Joint Direct Attack Munition
United States
Bomb guidance kit
Current
Mark 46 torpedo
United States
Lightweight anti-submarine torpedo
Current
Carried by the P-3B, P-3C and AP-3C Orion.
MU90 Impact
France / Italy
Lightweight anti-submarine torpedo
Current
Carried by the AP-3C Orion
R.530
France
Short-to-medium range air-to-air missile
1965-1980s
Obsolete, no longer in service with the RAAF. Carried by the Mirage IIIO
R.550 Magic
France
Short-range air-to-air missile
1983–1988
Obsolete, no longer in service with the RAAF. Carried by the Mirage IIIO
Unguided rockets
Model
Origin
Role
Service Period
Notes
Folding-Fin Aerial Rocket
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.
Hydra 70 Rocket
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
Machine-guns
See also
Notes
^ "The Inter-war years 1921 to 1939" . Royal Australian Air Force. Archived from the original on 30 September 2009. Retrieved 25 February 2010 .
^ Aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force, 2021. p. 12
^ Cowan, Brendan; Batman; Mark, Mark (8 September 2014). "Avro 504A/B/J/K" . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au. Retrieved 22 December 2016 .
^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w Crick, Darren; Cowan, Brendan; Edwards, Martin (28 February 2015). "Aircraft of Central Flying School 1909–1918" . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au. Retrieved 22 December 2016 .
^ a b Cowan, Brendan; Lax, Mark (2 September 2014). "AFC Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2c & B.E.2e" . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au. Retrieved 22 December 2016 .
^ Cowan, Brendan; Lax, Mark (29 September 2014). "AMC/Airco D.H.1" . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au. Retrieved 22 December 2016 .
^ Cowan, Brendan (27 August 2015). "AFC Airco D.H.5" . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au. Retrieved 22 December 2016 .
^ Crick, Darren (31 March 2016). "RAAF A1 de Havilland D.H.9a" . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au. Retrieved 21 December 2016 .
^ Aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force, 2021. p. 425
^ Cowan, Brendan; Lax, Mark (25 April 2015). "AFC Bristol Fighter F.2b" . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au. Retrieved 22 December 2016 .
^ Cowan, Brendan (2015). "AFC Armstrong Whitworth FK.3" . Australian & New Zealand Military Aircraft Serials & History . adf-serials.com.au. Retrieved 22 December 2016 .
^ a b c Wilson, Stuart (1994). Military Aircraft of Australia . Weston Creek, ACT: Aerospace Publications. pp. 27– 28. ISBN 1-875671-08-0 .
^ Aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force, 2021. p. 304
^ Aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force, 2021. p. 304
^ Aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force, 2021. p. 412
^ Aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force, 2021. p. 413
^ Aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force, 2021. p. 414
^ a b Cowan, Brendan (2018). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/albatrosCI.htm
^ a b Cowan, Brendan (2018). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/albatrosDIII.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2018). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/albatrosDVa.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2018). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/dfwCV.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2018). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/fokkerDVII.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2018). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/halberstadt.htm
^ a b Cowan, Brendan (2018). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/pfalz.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2018). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/rumpler.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2020) http://www.adf-serials.com.au/breda25.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2018). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/cant501.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2021). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/caproni100.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2020). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/caproni309.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2019). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/fiatcr42.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2019). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/henschel126.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2019). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/junkers52.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2020). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/macchi205.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2020). http://www.adf-serials.com.au/me109.htm
^ Cowan Brendan (2020) http://www.adf-serials.com.au/zero.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2019) http://www.adf-serials.com.au/sally.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2020) http://www.adf-serials.com.au/sonia.htm
^ Cowan, Brendan (2020) http://www.adf-serials.com.au/hickory.htm
Bibliography
Morgan, Eric B. & Burnet, Charles (December 1981 – March 1982). "Walrus... Amphibious Angel of Mercy". Air Enthusiast (17): 13– 25. ISSN 0143-5450 .
External links