Australia is preparing to deploy the first F-35 Lightning II aircraft in the country. AU-1 and AU-2 platforms which carry out pilot training missions in the United States since their delivery in 2014, have completed their duties there. Aircrafts have visited for the first time in 2017 in order to join air show. This time, AU-1 and AU-2 on their way back permanently. Platforms will be deployed at RAAF Williamtown Air Base. Aircrafts will arrive New South Wales on December 10th.

Australia, wants to create the world's first fully networked fifth-generation air force, keeps the F-35 Lightning II in the centre of the project. Royal Australian Air Force is carrying out procurement programme including EA-18G Growler, E-7 Wedgetail, Gulfstream 550 ISR, MQ-4C Triton, and MQ-9 Reaper platforms, in order to reach to the target.