Navy happy with Avalon Airshow exposure

Royal Australian Navy showcased technologically-advanced capabilities at the Australian International Airshow 2023 (AIA23), where Navy’s footprint included helicopters, camcopter, virtual reality simulations and much more.

CAPTION: Able Seaman Casey Anderson assists a member of the public with a Royal Australian Navy Fleet Air Arm flight simulator inside the RAN exhibition tent the 2023 Avalon International Airshow. Story by Lieutenant Ben Willee. Photo by Corporal David Cotton.

MH-60R pilot Lieutenant Commander Jordan Taylor said he was excited to showcase Navy capabilities to the public.

“We’re delighted to not only have a static display but to be flying throughout the show,” he said.

“We’re flew with a giant Australian national flag to open the show, conducted solo handling displays and participated in the larger ADF showcase.

“The MH-60R static display and EC-135 T2+ are in prime position alongside two United States Army Helicopters.”

CAPTION: A Royal Australian Navy MR-60R helicopter performs an solo handling display during the 2023 Avalon International Airshow. Photo by Corporal David Cotton.

Attendees were also treated to the Navy performing solo handling displays that demonstrated the manoeuvring capabilities of the MH-60R.

Members of the public were also able to get first-hand accounts of what life is like in the Navy through a range of interactions with sailors at the RAN Exhibition.

Leading Seaman Melissa Maconachie talked about the enthusiasm for the 360-degree virtual reality (VR) headsets.

“People are really interested in what life is like on a ship or a submarine,” she said.

“Not many people get to see a working submarine up close – but 360 degree VR is an excellent way to give people a real-life experience.”

CAPTION: A Royal Australian Navy submariner assists a member of the public with a 360-degree virtual-reality headset inside the RAN exhibition tent at Avalon. Photo by Corporal David Cotton.

 

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