The Australian Army Flying Corps (AAFC) was a branch of the Australian Army that existed from 1913 to 1920. It was established as a precursor to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and played a crucial role in the early development of Australian military aviation.
The AAFC was responsible for conducting military aviation operations and maintaining aircraft for the Australian Army during World War I. It operated a variety of aircraft, including reconnaissance and fighter planes, providing aerial support to ground forces. The corps undertook tasks such as aerial patrols, bombing missions, and artillery spotting, contributing significantly to Australia's war efforts.
During its existence, the AAFC faced numerous challenges, including limited aircraft availability, shortage of trained personnel, and organizational restructuring. These challenges led to the formation of the RAAF in 1921, as a separate and independent military aviation branch.
The AAFC marked a significant milestone in Australian military history, serving as a foundation for the subsequent development of the RAAF. Its contributions laid the groundwork for Australia's future air power capabilities and highlighted the importance of aviation in modern warfare.
Overall, the AAFC can be defined as the branch of the Australian Army that operated military aircraft, provided aerial support, and paved the way for the establishment of the RAAF.
