The Supercars started with a roar this year when, for the first time, an Air Force P-8A Poseidon aircraft flew above the bp Adelaide 2025 Grand Final championships.
With a 29,000 strong turnout, the motorsports race marked the culmination of the 2025 Australian Supercar season, and the Australian Defence Force was there to demonstrate their own speed and capability to attendees.
Navigating aboard the P-8A Poseidon was Adelaide-born maritime patrol and response officer, Flying Officer Eric Morant, who spoke of the incredible opportunity to fly over the city for the occasion.
"The P-8A is the only aircraft that is based in Adelaide, so it's amazing to be a part of such a significant event in the Adelaide calendar, and showcase the P-8A to the community," Flying Officer Morant said.
"Growing up as a local boy myself, I remember when my mum used to take me to the race when I was younger. It's awesome to be part of it now in this capacity."
Also at the event were a range of ADF personnel, with Team Army, Air Force's 1 Combat Communications Squadron, Army's 9th Brigade and ADF Careers highlighting a range of available career opportunities to the Supercars crowds.
'I feel very fortunate to be back here, hopefully inspiring the next generation the same way I was.'
Demonstrating Defence capabilities in the air was an F-35A Lightning II from the Northern Territory's 75 Squadron, as well as a PC-21 Pilatus from the Victoria-based Central Flying School.
F-35A Lightning II pilot Flight Lieutenant Jason Milowski conducted his aerial display over the Grand Final track, reflecting afterwards on the full-circle moment of performing for the event.
"It was at the Clipsal 500 [as the race was previously known] when I was eight years old, where I first saw a Classic Hornet performing its aerial display. I remember telling my mum that I wanted to do exactly that when I had grown up," Flight Lieutenant Milowski said.
"I've been flying the F-35A for five years now, and that first moment was a defining point for my career. Being back to perform this weekend - with my family watching below - is extremely surreal.
"Between the 1200km/h speeds and G-forces similar to that of Supercar, there is a short time in the display where I can look down and see the people in the crowd. That moment is always quite profound.
"I feel very fortunate to be back here, hopefully inspiring the next generation the same way I was."
Ensuring motorsports fans had their fix of speed and adrenaline, both on the ground and in the air, the ADF's involvement in Adelaide's largest race highlighted its commitment to the community, while showcasing Defence platforms, people and pathways available to those who want a piece of the action.
