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The Royal Australian Air Force’s F-35A fighter jets have visited Brunei in a milestone display of “comprehensive partnership” between the two nations.
In a strategic display of cooperation and camaraderie, two Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) F-35A Lightning II aircraft landed in Brunei for the first time on Wednesday.
Air Combat Group Air Commodore Commander Pete Robinson noted the significance of the showcase visit, citing the “really long history” between the two nations.
“Since 1984, when Brunei gained independence, we’ve had a strong relationship between our people and also our defence cooperation.”
“It’s the first time that we’ve brought our F-35As to Brunei and it’s a real privilege to be able to do that.”
The F-35A Lightning II is a fifth-generation, multi-role fighter aircraft produced by Lockheed Martin, which became operational in Australia in 2021. Its supersonic capabilities and efficient internal communications networks make it a stealth fighter asset.
“This first F-35A visit, combined with the return of the KC-30A, marks an exciting new chapter,” AIRCDRE Robinson said.
As a part of the visit, members of the Brunei Defence Force and the Australian High Commission had the opportunity to view the aircraft up close in a static display.
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Hairy Erwandy bin Haji Raya, Commander of the Royal Brunei Air Force Operations Group, noted the value of this experience, saying: “We appreciate the chance to see this magnificent fifth-generation aircraft for the first time here.
“Thank you to the RAAF for coming to Brunei and providing such valuable insight into this capability.”
More than just a demonstration of Australia’s defence aircraft, the visit offered a display of bilateral allyship in the Indo-Pacific, as stability in the South China Sea remains fractured.
“Australia is committed to working with Brunei Darussalam through ASEAN-led mechanisms to promote an Indo-Pacific region that is peaceful, stable, resilient, prosperous and rules-based,” said Michael Hoy, Australian high commissioner to Brunei.
“Seeing our F-35As up close and greeting the talented pilots and support crew reminds us of their dedication towards advancing these principles,” he added.
