Deployments & Exercises

When you’re a member of the Air Force, you’re an integral part of an organisation that assists not only Australia, but countries all over the world, through a range of deployments and peacekeeping exercises. From Operation ASHIKA ASSIST supporting recovery efforts in Tonga, to deployments in the Middle East, the Air Force makes a genuine and positive difference to people’s lives. Here are just a few examples of recent Air Force deployments and exercises.

Operation PADANG ASSIST

Operation PADANG ASSIST commenced in early October 2009, after the Indonesian Government accepted an offer of emergency assistance from Australia, following two large earthquakes near the Indonesian Island of Sumatra. The Air Force has played a vital role as part of the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) Joint Task Force 629, working closely with Indonesian authorities, the Department of Foreign Affairs, AusAID and other agencies, to deliver emergency relief to where it is needed most.

Operation SLIPPER

As part of Operation SLIPPER, the Air Force contributes to the efforts of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan, bringing security, stability and prosperity to the area. This operation is working tirelessly to prevent terrorism in Afghanistan and supports the United States-led International Coalition Against Terrorism (ICAT) efforts in the broader Middle East.

Operation AZURE

Operation AZURE is the deployment of ADF personnel to the United Nations peacekeeping operation in Sudan, working to enforce a peace agreement which saw the end of a lengthy civil war. The Air Force contribution includes military observers and personnel who specialise in air movements and logistic support.

This operation included Australia's first female contingent commander, an Air Traffic Controller who led a small team into the region.

"I’m very proud and honoured to be selected, and while it’s obviously going to be a challenge operating in a totally foreign culture, I’ve got an incredible bunch of guys working with me who are very supportive," she said.