The Royal Australian Air Force has launched a two-week training exercise at five locations around Queensland, including on the Sunshine Coast.
A Defence spokesperson confirmed that personnel are involved in Exercise Diamond Seas, from February 10 to 24, at RAAF bases Williamtown, Amberley and Townsville, and at the Shoal Water Bay Training Area and the Sunshine Coast Airport.
The spokesperson said it was a “Force Level Integration Training Exercise”.
“The exercise is the first activity within the Air Warfare Instructor Course, a six-month Royal Australian Air Force program to raise, train and sustain the next generation of experts in integrated air power effects.”
Involving members of the Royal Australian Navy, Australian Army and Royal Australian Air Force, The Air Warfare Instructor Course spans four exercises from February to June and will take place at Royal Australian Air Force bases and training ranges across the east and north of Australia.”
Some of the aircraft that could be in action include the C-130J, C-27J, KC-30A tanker, P-8A and E-7A, which are essentially a variety of military transport, re-fuelling, maritime patrol and airborne surveillance aircraft.
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Sunshine Coast Airport informed locals of the exercise, via social media.
“Sunshine Coast Airport is supporting essential Royal Australian Air Force training, which will result in increased flying activity in our region.”
“Residents may notice more aircraft movements (and) some night flying activities.
“The Air Force appreciates the understanding and ongoing support of our local community while this important training takes place.”
Many locals expressed their enthusiasm for the training.
“I love hearing the jets fly over,” Joal Smith said.
“When the Royal Australian Air Force fly over, I can at least see where my taxes have gone, so they are welcome any day,” Phil Goschnik said.
“The night flying is goose bump material,” Katie Pretty said. “Makes you feel safe seeing the skills of these amazing women and men.”
But Marco Rocco said on Thursday that he was shocked by the sound of one.
“Scares the hell out of me when a jet aborts an approach,” he said.
No further details can be provided for operational reasons.
