The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) served in the Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam) from 1964, flying Caribou transport aircraft, Iroquois helicopters and Canberra bombers while also supporting airfield construction, medical evacuation, airfield defence and allied operations. They deployed to support South Vietnamese and United States (US) forces in their fight against communist forces.
Although Australia’s involvement in the war began with Army advisers in 1962, the RAAF's direct role in South Vietnam began in 1964.
RAAF Caribou aircraft flew transport operations around South Vietnam, carrying people, supplies and equipment. No 9 Squadron later flew Iroquois helicopters, moving troops, delivering supplies and evacuating wounded soldiers. No 2 Squadron flew Canberra bombers from Phan Rang, while other RAAF personnel worked in airfield construction, support roles, aeromedical evacuation, airfield defence and with US forces.
RAAF Transport Flight Vietnam (later No 35 Squadron) and No 9 Squadron operated from the Vung Tau base. Other RAAF aircraft operated from different locations. No 2 Squadron’s Canberra bombers were based at Phan Rang. Hercules transport aircraft flew into South Vietnam, often through Vung Tau, from bases elsewhere. No 79 Squadron and its Sabre fighters supported Vietnam War operations from Ubon, Thailand, from 1962.
The RAAF's involvement in the war officially ended in 1973.
RAAF Hercules aircraft and personnel returned in 1975 as South Vietnam collapsed. They helped evacuate Australian citizens, refugees and other civilians. They also took part in Operation Babylift, evacuating Vietnamese infants and children to safety during the final days before the Fall of Saigon.
