The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has re-established its Number 12 Squadron at RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia as a second operational squadron for Australia's growing fleet of P-8A Poseidon aircraft.
Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell DSC, CSC, OAM, made the announcement following the arrival of the newest P-8A Poseidon aircraft, bringing the fleet to 13.
Operating alongside 11 Squadron, 12 Squadron will contribute to Australia's anti-submarine warfare, maritime strike and maritime intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and response capabilities.
"I'm proud to announce the re-establishment of Number 12 Squadron alongside the arrival of Australia's 13th P-8A Poseidon aircraft.
"Number 12 Squadron has played an important role in the history of our Air Force and the defence of our nation; a role that it will proudly and skilfully continue from today," said Air Marshal Chappell.
In operating the expanded fleet of P-8A Poseidon aircraft, Number 12 Squadron will deliver persistent patrols over Australia's maritime approaches. The two P-8A Poseidon squadrons will also work with the MQ-4C Triton to provide Australia with one of the most advanced maritime patrol and surveillance capabilities in the world.
The 13th P-8A Poseidon aircraft was delivered by Boeing, with the 14th and final aircraft to be delivered in 2026. The 14-aircraft fleet is supported by approximately 290 Boeing Defence Australia and Airbus Asia Pacific personnel, with an annual sustainment budget of $308 million.
Commander Surveillance and Response Group, Air Commodore Louise desJardines CSC, reinforced the significance of the re-establishment of Number 12 Squadron for Air Force.
"The arrival of the 13th aircraft and the re-establishment of 12 Squadron is the culmination of many years of hard work. We've now built the capability to the point we need a second operational squadron.
"Our aviators are the key to our capability. With their dedication, commitment and resolve, they are what make the P-8A Poseidon deliver," said Air Commodore desJardines.
The new Commanding Officer of 12 Squadron, Wing Commander James Best said it was an honour to be appointed to command the re-established Royal Australian Air Force's Number 12 Squadron.
"Our mission will be assured by the delivery of these final two P-8A Poseidon aircraft. They will enhance resilience and deterrence in our maritime intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and response operations, and our anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare capabilities," said Wing Commander Best.
The P-8A Poseidon is a critical capability that supports the delivery of Australia's Strategy of Denial, as outlined in the 2024 National Defence Strategy.
The re-establishment of 12 Squadron honours the proud history and battle honours of the anti-submarine warfare and reconnaissance squadron that served in Darwin and Dutch New Guinea during World War Two. Disbanded after the war, it was reformed in 1973 to fly CH-47 Chinook helicopters before being disbanded again in 1989 following the retirement of the Chinook fleet.
