Warbirds Downunder

[Andy01]

Witnessing the legendary 85-year-old warbirds in action at Warbirds Downunder was incredible. These iconic planes, representing a golden era of aviation, took to the skies again, showcasing their enduring power and beauty. :)

Supported by the precision of the RAAF Roulettes and the cutting-edge capabilities of the F-35 Lightning, the event highlighted just how far aeronautical engineering has advanced over the decades.

The contrast between the vintage warbirds and this modern marvel of the sky underscored both the rich heritage and the remarkable innovation in aviation today. 😀

Well worth the seven hour drive each way and thank you to my amazing wife for organising the trip including the tickets, accommodation, teenagers and driving all the way there and back! :thumbsup:

[Leo.G]

Some very nice shots, particularly the first image, I'm wondering if it eats mosquitoes (the teeth) and if it can come visit my area through summer? LOL

Pardon my ignorance, is the last image the F35?
I've not seen one, maybe in a TV show I wasn't paying a great deal of attention to. They are a weird looking thing indeed, no wonder it cost so much to develop. The VTOL is supposed to be a better system than the old Harrier Jump Jets, they could fall out of the sky while transitioning from vertical to horizontal flight ( I saw a documentary on them once but liked them in the old MS flight sim X, the worst that could happen with me in the pilots seat was I fall off my chair).
I guess computers and related technology are far more advanced now.

[Andy01]

Hi Leo, Yes, you are correct. Photos #2 and & #8 are the F-35 - an incredible machine, and my wife clocked it 114 Db (can top out at 130Db, apparently) - it's loud! :)

[AstralTraveller]

Amongst the old aircraft I think I recognise the P-40 Kittyhawk and the F4U Corsair but I'm stumped by the other 2 in shot 5.

[Andy01]

Cheers, in Photo 5, there's the world's only remaining airworthy Lockeed Hudson Bomber (https://www.airforce.gov.au/community/event-participation/air-force-heritage-aircraft-fleet/lockheed-hudson), the F4U Vought Corsair (https://www.warbirdsonline.com.au/2015/12/11/chance-vought-corsair-f4u-5n/)and the Grumman Avenger. (https://paulbennetairshows.com.au/tgn-grumman-avenger):D

In Photo 4 there are two Mustangs, a Spitfire, the Corsair and three Kittyhawks!

[Peter Ward]

Looks like a splendid time was had by all. I wonder whether a former work colleague of mine had his P-51 there.:question: (picture of his aeroplane attached)
Despite some promises, the bugger never did let me take it for a spin....

[Andy01]

These were the only two P51 Mustangs present, and one of the three Kittyhawks. :D

[MortonH]

Damn, I was expecting Romulans...

[astronobob]

While Im not really into the identification of every individual aircraft though the sense of aviation accomplishments of the day, engineering, aerodynamics and mechanics is a sight to behold, even the modern fighters,,,!

The other thing is shooting <- pun originally unintended ;),,, planes on a Show-Day is always an amazing experience, really like the variety of compositions here, :thumbsup: