Eighty years' worth of airpower has fired up today in preparation for the Avalon Australian International Airshow 2025.
Capability from first and fifth generations stood together as both F-35A Lightning and Spitfire MK VII took to the skies today in different parts of Victoria for to prepare for the five-day event at Avalon from 25-30 March.
Together, these fighters demonstrate how much the technology and performance of air combat capability has evolved over the last 80 years.
A airshow preview showcased not only the F-35A but also the RAAF Roulettes display team, Australian Army and Navy helicopters along with flypasts and arrivals of the 100SQN Winjeel, C-17A Globemaster and other Defence equipment on show.
Flight Lieutenant Scott Taberner, No. 100 Squadron Pilot said anytime he gets to fly a rare and historic warbird like the Spitfire is always a privilege.
"Getting the Spitfire ready for the displays takes a lot of work and practice, but it is very rewarding when you able to put on a great display for the public," FLTLT Taberner said.
"It is really exciting to be flying a WW2 fighter, one made famous in the Battle of Britain, alongside the Air Forces latest generation of war fighter."
Squadron Leader Alistair Smith from No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit is on site at Avalon as the AIA25 Detachment Commander and one of the F-35 Lightning II pilots conducting the displays.
He said flying an F-35 alongside a first-generation fighter in the coming week will be an incredible experience that highlights the evolution of aviation and reminder of Royal Australian Air Force history.
"It's not every day you are able to witness how the raw, hands-on flying of the early fighter contrasts with the advanced automation and sensor fusion of the modern fighter," SQNLDR Smith said.
Historic warbirds the Spitfire, CAC Winjeel, CT4A, CA-18 Mustang will all be on display, along with their 5th generation predecessors at the Avalon Australian International Airshow 2025.
