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The Canberra Times
The Canberra Times
National
Peter Brewer

Joint strike fighters return to train over Canberra

Two F-35A Lightning II fighters are set to train over Canberra on Wednesday. Picture: Defence

Two F-35 multi-role joint strike fighters will resume training over the skies of Canberra on Wednesday morning after their planned exercise last week was postponed.

The RAAF said two F-35A Lightning II fighters from their base at Williamtown, north of Newcastle, will fly into the ACT to conduct what is described as "diversion training".

The aircraft will arrive around 10am and touch down at Fairbairn.

"Diversion training is an essential part of pilot training on fast jet aircraft to ensure pilots are trained to land at different airfields in all weather conditions," the RAAF said in a statement.

"Noise reduction and the environment are vital considerations in the planning and conduct of military activity, and Air Force appreciates the ongoing support of the Canberra community during these training activities."

From mid-December, Williamtown air base had become the operational location for 13 of the new F-35A aircraft, each worth around $89 million. Five are still in Arizona, awaiting delivery.

The Federal government has locked in to purchase 72 F-35s in total.

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