Thailand and Australia Launch Joint Fighter Jet Exercise to Boost Defence Ties

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) have begun Exercise Thai Boomerang 2025, a large-scale fighter jet drill aimed at strengthening defence cooperation and enhancing long-standing strategic relations.
Running from September 8–19 at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base in Nakhon Ratchasima, the exercise involves more than 500 personnel from both countries. This marks the 15th edition of the joint drill since its launch in 1992.
The training includes advanced scenarios such as Dissimilar Air Combat Training, Large Force Employment, and Close Air Support operations. RAAF’s F/A-18F Super Hornets and No.4 Squadron personnel are flying alongside RTAF’s F-16 Fighting Falcons and JAS-39 Gripen aircraft.
RAAF Commander Trent Baldry emphasized that the exercise enhances both interoperability and camaraderie, while Australian officials highlighted that defence cooperation continues to serve as a cornerstone of the bilateral partnership.