21 March 2025
Eighty years worth of airpower has fired up ahead of the Avalon Australian International Airshow 2025.
Capability from different eras came together as both F-35A Lightning and Spitfire MK VII took to the skies of Victoria to prepare for the five-day event at Avalon from March 25 to 30.
Together, these fighters demonstrate how much the technology and performance of air combat capability has evolved over the past 80 years.
An air show 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.
100 Squadron pilot Flight Lieutenant Scott Taberner said it was a privilege to fly a rare and historic warbird such as the Spitfire.
'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.'
“Getting the Spitfire ready for the displays takes a lot of work and practice, but it is very rewarding when you are able to put on a great display for the public,” Flight Lieutenant Taberner said.
“It is really exciting to be flying a WW2 fighter (one made famous in the Battle of Britain) alongside the Air Force's latest generation of war fighter.”
Squadron Leader Alistair Smith from 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 an early fighter in the coming week would be an incredible experience that highlighted the evolution of aviation and served as a 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,” Squadron Leader Smith said.
Historic warbirds the Spitfire, CAC Winjeel, CT4A and CA-18 Mustang will be on display, along with their fifth-generation successors at the Avalon Australian International Airshow 2025.
