ARDU holds celebrations

THE Aircraft Research and Development Unit (ARDU) will celebrate 60 years of contribution to Australia’s aerospace test and evaluation capabilities at RAAF Base Edinburgh on July 25.

All past and present members and friends of ARDU are invited to attend the special celebrations, which will mark the unit’s long and illustrious history while welcoming the new future direction of ADF aerospace operations.

At 11am Air Commander Air Vice-Marshal John Kindler will meet unit personnel, inspect the unit’s new $38 million purpose-built facility on the base and introduce the formation of the Aerospace Operational Support Group.

The morning will feature a barbecue and a mass flyover of ARDU aircraft, including a special display by F-A/18s and an F-111.

A dinner-dance will be held at 7pm in the ARDU hangar, which will be decorated for the occasion.

Guests will enjoy a four-course meal and be entertained by the RAAF Central Band jazz ensemble.

Video presentations, featuring the past, present and future of Australian aerospace activities will capture the spirit of the unit over the past 60 years.

Tickets are $40 each. To book tickets or for more information on the evening, contact FLTLT Keith Evans, ARDU Administration Officer, on (08) 839 32271 or keith.evans@defence.gov.au.

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