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The Royal Australian Air Force has stolen the spotlight with F-35A Lighting II aircraft deployed to wow the crowds at the inaugural Bali International Air Show 2024.
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The occasion marks the first time Australia has conducted a dedicated flying display with the F-35A in Indonesia, during the event at Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Kuta from September 18 to 21.
Australian aircraft and aviators attended the air show, with No 2 Operational Conversion Unit commanding officer, Wing Commander Phil Eldridge meeting Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff, Air Chief Marshal M. Tonny Harjono.
"Australia’s participation in Bali International Air Show provides an opportunity for RAAF personnel to engage with their Indonesian Air Force (Tentara Nasional Indonesia – Angkatan Udara) counterparts and the wider Indonesian public," according to a statement published by Defence.
"Air Forces’ involvement reflects Australia’s commitment to a broad, deep and growing strategic partnership with Indonesia."
The F-35 aircraft was also joined by a separate display from a German Air Force Airbus A400M four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft.
The air show is hosted by Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Maritime and Investment Affairs, the Ministry of Transportation of Indonesia, and the Indonesia Air Force.
The airshow was expected to attract up to 100 participating companies and 100 delegations from more than 35 countries and regions; including dignitaries of Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Philippines, Timor-Leste, South Korea, India, USA, Japan, New Zealand, China, Papua New Guinea, Turkey and Australia.
The airshow also reportedly featured participation from global aerospace and defence companies such as Airbus, Bell Helicopters, Boeing, Brahmos, Dassault Aviation, Embraer, Garuda Group, Lion Air, MBDA, PT Dirgantara Indonesia, Textron Aviation and Thales.
"Through these collaborations, Indonesia is now ready to stand alongside notable players in the global arena, making an international event like the Bali Airshow essential," according to Indonesia's Maritime and Investment Affairs coordinating minister Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan.
"The aviation landscape in Indonesia is on an upward trajectory, with a projected annual growth rate of five percent in the aircraft fleet over the next five years and Indonesia is estimated to be the 4th largest aviation market in 2037.
"The Ministry is delighted to be in full support of the Bali Airshow 2024, which will further reinforce this growth and our position on the global stage.
"This airshow is a testament to Indonesia's commitment to leading the way in sustainable aviation and defence advancements.
"As we aim to promote Indonesia's role as a global leader in the aviation industry and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), we are bringing together global experts to share insights and collaborate on shaping the future of these critical sectors."
The Bali International Airshow 2024 features 16 commercial and military aircraft static displays such as the F16 Fighting Falcon, Sukhoi SU27, C130J Super Hercules, CASA C212, EC275 and Embraer EMB314 Super Tucano.
