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The Royal Australian Air Force has celebrated the graduation of six students from its fast jet pilot course, including its first two female graduates.
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Like the six students' forebears, it has been at least a four-year journey of academic, flying skill and leadership assessment.
The graduation comes as the RAAF begins to operate its fifth generation fighter aircraft.
Minister for Defence Marise Payne congratulated the students after years of rigorous training.
"Air Force Fighter Pilot selection and training is comprehensive and rigorous, and only a select few ever graduate as qualified Fighter Pilots," Minister Payne said.
"Years of dedication and hard work has brought these pilots to this point in their careers – and I wish to take this opportunity to thank them for providing such a fine example of the career opportunities and aspirations that can be realised in today’s Air Force. It's an exciting time to be a member of the Air Force as our fifth generation aircraft take RAAF operations to a new level.
"I wish all six graduates the best in their future operational flying careers."
