Italian Air Force cadets visit Australia for second year

The Italian Air Force’s Aeronautical Academy Corso Centauro VI returned to Australia, visiting the RAAF with the class of 2024 after their successful inaugural visit last year.

CAPTION: The Italian Air Force Academy cadets witness a flying display by the CAC Winjeel from 100 Squadron Heritage Fleet during their visit to RAAF Bases Williams and Point Cook. Story by Flying Officer Rose Gigliotti. Photos by Warrant Officer Don Kenny.

Travelling from Kuwait and Qatar before heading to Singapore, the group met with Air Force Training Group, ADF Academy, Surveillance and Response Group, and Air Combat Group.

The group, included 84 cadets, was welcomed by Group Captain Lloyd Sellick and Officer In Charge of the RAAF Museum Wing Commander Emily Cameron at RAAF Base Point Cook.

The visit aimed to strengthen the relationship and mutual understanding of modern training methods for cadets.

CAPTION: Cadets are shown the aircraft hangar displaying the Italian Macchi MB-326 aircraft at the RAAF Museum, RAAF Base Point Cook.

The class was delighted to learn how the Italian Macchi MB-326 jet, on display in Point Cook, was used to train RAAF pilots from 1970-1989.

They enjoyed a tour of the RAAF Museum, the Strike Hangar experience and an aerial display from 100 Squadron’s CAC Winjeel.

Head of the delegation, Italian Air Force Academy Commander Major General Luigi Casali said they looked forward to continuing this international cooperation.

“The learning opportunity regarding operations and training programs, together with the warm hospitality we received last year, made it an easy decision to return,” Major General Casali said.

Group Captain Sellick said followed up with: “This shared opportunity to discuss recruitment initiatives for increased participation and build cooperation for training opportunities is fundamental to a contemporary force”.

Commander Air Force Training Group Air Commodore David Strong said engaging international partners was important to advance training opportunities and maintain their significance.

“The future of air and ground training with the use of technology to develop our members is essential for air superiority,” Air Commodore Strong said.

Air Commodore Strong was presented with an Italian Air Force Academy and a Centauro VI plaque as a thank you.

CAPTION: The Italian Air Force Academy visit to RAAF Base Williams and RAAF Base Point Cook.

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