31 March 1921

The Royal Australian Air Force is formed.

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) was formed on March 31, 1921, as an independent branch of the Australian armed forces. However, the origins of the RAAF can be traced back to 1914, when the Australian Flying Corps (AFC) was established as part of the Australian Imperial Force for service in World War I.

During World War I, the AFC saw action in the Middle East, the Western Front, and in the Pacific. After the war, the Australian government recognized the importance of air power and decided to establish a separate air force. On March 31, 1921, the Australian Air Force was renamed the Royal Australian Air Force and became an independent branch of the Australian armed forces.

During World War II, the RAAF played a significant role in the defense of Australia, as well as in the Pacific Theater. The RAAF also provided support to Allied forces in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. After the war, the RAAF was involved in various peacekeeping and humanitarian missions, including the Korean War, the Malayan Emergency, and the Vietnam War.

In more recent times, the RAAF has been involved in various military operations, including the Gulf War, the War in Afghanistan, and the War in Iraq. The RAAF also plays a critical role in Australia’s national security, with its capabilities utilized for search and rescue operations, border security, and disaster relief efforts.