With COVID restrictions over and clear skies across many states, Australians were treated to one of the best displays in years.
The surprising decision comes despite Defence Minister Richard Marles previously saying that purchasing the B-21 was “being examined” and US Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall suggesting his country would be “willing to talk” about a deal.
Operation Vanuatu Assist saw 600 Defence personnel and aircraft, including Australian Chinooks, help deliver medical supplies, food and shelter.
The systems allow users to manage and safely support incoming flights when traditional infrastructure does not exist or has been damaged by disaster or warfighting.
RAAF Base Scherger on Cape York Peninsula will play a central role in the largest Exercise Talisman Sabre ever hosted by Australia, including more than 30,000 personnel – almost double the number of those who attended the event in 2021.
The waves are expected to comprise aircraft including Orion AP-3C, Neptune SP-2H, Spitfire Mk IX, Grumman Tracker S-2G, Dakota C-47, two Caribou DHC-4, and Iroquois Huey UH-1B.