he United States Air Force participated in the 2025 Avalon Australian International Airshow during the last week of March, reinforcing the longstanding alliance between the two nations and offering members of the public the opportunity to enjoy aerial displays and engage with service members during the southern hemisphere’s largest airshow and aerospace and defense exposition.
Avalon 2025 is a key component of the Department of Defense’s commitment to promoting regional alliances in the Indo-Pacific region.
“I think [the Avalon Airshow] really shows how important the relationship between the United States and Australia, in that they are willing and keen at every opportunity to bring their premiere air dominance … to Australia,” said Squadron Leader Paul “Ando” Anderton, Royal Australian Air Force No. 2 Operational Conversion Unit F-35A Lightning Pilot, speaking on the importance of the Australian and United States partnership.
Avalon 2025 was composed of a multitude of nations including: Australia, the United States, Canada, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam.
A total of 84 U.S. Airmen helped make the airshow possible, enabling the movement of personnel and multiple DoD assets to represent alongside our international partners.
“It has been a pleasure to work with the Australian team and Avalon volunteers that have supported us beyond expectations,” said Senior Master Sgt. Jessica De La Mora, U.S. Air Force Avalon ground boss. “The coordination between each flying unit, their maintenance teams, and the Australian ground support team is essential.”
The U.S. The Department of Defense showcased a diverse lineup of aircraft for attendees, including the AH-64E Apache, F-22 Raptor, F-16 Fighting Falcon and C-17 Globemaster III — many of which performed aerial demonstrations during the show.
“The USAF and RAAF partnership is something that we look forward to continuing to build,” said Capt. Cody Apfel, Pacific Air Forces C-17 demo team pilot. “I love having the opportunity to come to Australia with the crew … and being able to integrate on all levels with our RAAF partners.”
The United States is committed to its allies, partners and the stability of the Indo-Pacific region. Our participation in Avalon 2025 demonstrates this commitment and reinforces our interoperability and multilateral cooperative arrangement, while continuing to strengthen relationships with Australia and other international partners.
