Exercise Thai Boomerang Returns to Thailand
9 September 2025
From 8–19 September, more than 500 participants from the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) are participating in Exercise Thai Boomerang 2025.
This is the 15th iteration of the bilateral exercise between the RAAF and RTAF, providing the opportunity to build upon the rich history and deep defence partnership between both air forces since 1992.
Primarily located at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base in Thailand, the exercise aims to enhance interoperability through Dissimilar Air Combat Training and scenarios in Large Force Employment, and Close Air Support of ground forces.
The exercise involves F/A-18F Super Hornets from RAAF’s No. 1 Squadron and personnel from No. 4 Squadron working alongside RTAF F-16 Fighting Falcon and JAS-39 Gripen aircraft.
Wing Commander Trent Baldry, Commanding Officer No. 1 Squadron, emphasised the importance of Exercise Thai Boomerang.
“Exercise Thai Boomerang is a valuable opportunity to learn from one another through combined air combat training. The profiles and scenarios flown will be across the spectrum of combat air power,” said Wing Commander Trent.
“Defence engagements, like Exercise Thai Boomerang foster friendship and rapport between RAAF and RTAF aviators at all levels. We look forward to training side by side with the Royal Thai Air Force.”
Dr Angela Macdonald PSM, Australian Ambassador to Thailand said defence cooperation is an important pillar of the bilateral relationship.
“Australia and Thailand are strategic partners who share 73 years of diplomatic relations. Exercise Thai Boomerang builds on decades of joint activities between our countries to strengthen coordination, skills and trust,” said Dr Angela Macdonald.
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