Royal Australian Air Force

Australia's air force, known as the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), is a technologically advanced and agile entity geared primarily towards defense and regional stability. Operating under the Department of Defence, it represents a cornerstone of Australia's military capabilities and strategic posturing in the Indo-Pacific region. Historically a middle power, Australia maintains strong alliances, most notably with the United States, and often deploys its air force in multinational coalitions.

The RAAF's current fleet comprises a diverse range of aircraft, including F-35A Lightning II fighters, which are multi-role stealth aircraft capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. These modern platforms significantly upgrade the RAAF’s capability to deter aggression and assure Australia’s allies.

The role of the RAAF has been evolving from strictly air defense to a more diversified portfolio that includes offensive operations, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and humanitarian aid. Recent acquisitions like the P-8A Poseidon and the MQ-4C Triton UAV indicate a growing emphasis on maritime patrol and long-range surveillance, reflecting concerns over maritime security, particularly in the South China Sea.

Logistically, the RAAF has made strides in improving its air-to-air refueling capabilities and heavy-lift options, with aircraft like the C-17 Globemaster III and the KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport. This has extended the operational reach of the Australian Defence Force as a whole, allowing for more rapid deployment in various theaters of operation.

However, despite its technological prowess, the RAAF faces challenges, such as budget constraints and the need for regular upgrades to keep up with emerging threats. The relatively small size of the air force compared to global powers also necessitates a focus on specialization and niche capabilities, rather than a broad spectrum of competencies. Furthermore, increasing regional tensions, particularly with China, require a delicate balance between deterrence and diplomacy.

Key facts

Official Name	Royal Australian Air Force
Country	🇦🇺 Australia
World rank	#30
Active aircrafts	382 (as of 2024)
Aircrafts on order	137
Roundel

Number of active aircrafts by type

Aircraft type	Active
Helicopters	137
Training	98
Combat aircrafts	72
Transport	38
Special missions	31
Tankers	6

Aircrafts most used by Australian air forces

Aircraft	Active	Type
F-35 Lightning II	48	American multirole stealth fighter, developed in the early 21st century, extensively deployed in global military operations.
NH90	47	European multinational medium-sized military helicopter, known for deployment in various peace-keeping and combat missions since the 1990s.
PC-21	46	Swiss trainer aircraft, known for deployments in military aviation schools around the world since the early 21st century.
Hawk	33	British trainer jet, distinguished in Red Arrows aerobatic team, extensively operational since the 1970s worldwide.
AH-64 Apache	29	American attack helicopter, developed during the Cold War, most famous for significant deployments in Gulf War and Afghanistan conflict.
F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet	24	American multirole fighter, hailing from the late 20th century, extensively deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts.
UH-60 Black Hawk	23	American utility helicopter, renowned for service in Iraq and Afghanistan, extensively employed for troop transport and medical evacuation.
EC665 Tiger	22	German-French attack helicopter, primarily deployed in Afghanistan, Libya, and Mali for anti-armor, fire support, and reconnaissance missions.
737	18	American twin-engine narrow-body jet airliner, popularly deployed for commercial aviation since the late 1960s.
H135M / EC365	15	European light utility helicopter, prominent in law enforcement, medical services, and military operations worldwide since the late 20th century.

Full inventory in 2024