Minister for Defence, Stephen Smith, today attended the opening of the Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition at Avalon, Victoria.
The Australian International Airshow is the premier event on Australia’s international aviation calendar.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is a major partner to the event, providing a range of aviation related displays.
In addition to offering visitors the opportunity to see a wide range of participating international aircraft, the Airshow provides an opportunity for the public to see a range of ADF aircraft.
ADF displays include the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) F/A-18F Super Hornet, KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), C-17A Globemaster, Navy’s MRH-90 Multi Role Helicopter, historic aircraft from the RAAF Museum and the RAAF Band.
The Minister toured the Aerospace & Defence Exposition and met with a number of Defence Industry representatives from companies including Pratt and Whitney, Lockheed Martin, Finmeccanica, Northrop Grumman, Boeing, Aerosonde and Elbit.
The ADF’s support to the Airshow provides valuable training, including security, airfield engineering, air traffic control, and air crew and combat support.
The Australian International Airshow is open to the public from Friday 1 March to Sunday 3 March 2013.