In a demonstration of growing Defence cooperation, two Royal Australian Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft landed in Brunei Darussalam for the first time.
The arrival, accompanied by a capability briefing and a static display of the fifth-generation aircraft, marked a significant milestone in the comprehensive partnership between Australia and Brunei.
The visit showcased not only Australia's air combat capability but the deepening strategic relationship between the two countries.
Members of the Brunei Defence Force and the Australian High Commission attended the event, which served as a platform for shared learning and engagement.
Commander Air Combat Group Air Commodore Pete Robinson said the visit was significant for the RAAF.
"Australia and Brunei have a really long history, going all the way back to before independence," Air Commodore Robinson said.
"Since 1984, when Brunei gained independence, we've had a strong relationship between our people and also our Defence cooperation.
"It's the first time that we've brought our F-35As to Brunei and it's a real privilege to be able to do that."
The visit was more than a technical demonstration - it was an opportunity to strengthen the partnership between the two nations.
"This first F-35A visit, combined with the return of the KC-30A, marks an exciting new chapter," Air Commodore Robinson said.
"Within this comprehensive partnership, we reaffirm our commitment to a region that is stable, peaceful, prosperous, secure and resilient."
'Australia is committed to working with Brunei Darussalam through ASEAN-led mechanisms to promote an Indo-Pacific region that is peaceful, stable, resilient, prosperous and rules-based.'
The static display enabled members of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces to engage with RAAF personnel and view the aircraft.
During the visit, Commander of the Royal Brunei Air Force Operations Group, Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Hairy Erwandy bin Haji Raya, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity.
"We appreciate the chance to see this magnificent fifth-generation aircraft for the first time here," Lieutenant Colonel Erwandy bin Haji Raya said.
"Thank you to the RAAF for coming to Brunei and providing such valuable insight into this capability."
Australian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Michael Hoy said the visit occurred within a broader diplomatic and regional context.
"The Australia and Brunei Darussalam Defence relationship is a cornerstone of our comprehensive partnership," Mr Hoy said.
"Deep and enduring bilateral links across education and training, logistics, information sharing, and military exercises underscore the trust, understanding and friendship between our two countries' Defence personnel."
Mr Hoy said the two nations have a shared vision for the region's future.
"Australia is committed to working with Brunei Darussalam through ASEAN-led mechanisms to promote an Indo-Pacific region that is peaceful, stable, resilient, prosperous and rules-based," he said.
"Seeing our F-35As up close, and greeting the talented pilots and support crew, reminds us of their dedication towards advancing these principles.
"We appreciate the professional and generous support of Royal Brunei Air Force for facilitating the visit."
