A new generation takes off

In the latest development of ADF’s future aviation capability, several Air Academy graduation ceremonies have been held, producing about 40 new Air Force aviators.

Last month, 22 trainee pilots graduated from ADF Pilot Courses 286 and 287 during a ceremony reviewed by DCAF AVM Steve Pesce.

The graduates completed the demanding pilot training continuum before being streamed to operational conversion units across a diverse range of Air Force capabilities.

Nine of them will progress to the Hawk 127 Lead-In Fighter, while others will commence training on the P-8A Poseidon, C-130J Hercules, KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport, C-27J Spartan, MC-55A Peregrine, King Air, E-7A Wedgetail and Dassault Falcon fleets.

“These graduates have demonstrated the commitment, resilience and professionalism required to become Air Force aviators. As they move into their operational conversion training, they become part of the next generation of Air Force capability that will contribute to Australia's security in increasingly complex operating environments,” AVM Pesce said.

The graduation ceremony also recognised Air Force’s aviation heritage, with members of ADF Pilot Course 87 – known as the Double Centurions – attending the ceremony alongside the newest cohort of military pilots. Their presence highlighted the enduring connection between generations of Air Force aviators and highlighted the values of service, excellence and mentorship.

Another 12 graduates from Mission Aircrew Courses 69 and 70 celebrated the successful completion of their specialist training during a graduation ceremony reviewed by Commander Air Force Training Group AIRCDRE Brett Williams.

Four of these graduates will transition into Air Combat roles, while eight will support Maritime Patrol and Response Operations, providing critical mission capability across Defence's intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and maritime security operations.

AIRCDRE Williams said mission aircrew played an essential role in delivering Air Force capability.

“Mission aircrews are integral to every mission, combining technical expertise, teamwork and sound judgement to deliver operational effects. The graduates have developed the skills and professionalism required to support Air Force operations and are now ready to continue their development within frontline units,” AIRCDRE Williams said.

Supporting this workforce generation, 32SQN has continued to deliver strong operational and training outcomes throughout 2026. The squadron maintained a high-flying rate, while continuing to support Operation Resolute through the provision of personnel and aviation capability to Australia's border security mission.

The squadron also qualified four King Air 350 co-pilots as category D captains during the first half of the year, increasing aircrew capability while supporting future flying operations and instructor capacity.

In addition, 32SQN continues to host two Papua New Guinea Defence Force pilots and two Irish Air Corps pilots completing operational conversion training and conduct flying operations on the King Air. This cooperation strengthens international partnerships and enhances aviation interoperability.

CO 32SQN WGCDR Conan Brett said these achievements reflected the dedication of both instructors and students.

“Every qualification achieved represents hundreds of hours of training, mentoring and teamwork,” WGCDR Brett said.

“Whether graduating from pilot training, mission aircrew training or progressing to aircraft captaincy, these milestones ensure Air Force continues to generate the highly skilled people needed to meet today's operational demands and prepare for tomorrow's challenges.” 

Together, these achievements demonstrate Air Academy's enduring role in generating the pilots and mission aircrew who underpin the ADF’s future aviation capability, while supporting current operations, international partnerships and the next generation of Air Force training.