Royal Malaysian Air Force families were wowed with a thrilling display from the ADF Drone Racing Team at Kuantan Airbase during Exercise Elangaroo.

The ADF Drone Racing Team has competed in the United States and the United Kingdom, and is the five-time undefeated Military International Drone Racing Tournament champion.

For their performance at the Kuantan Airbase, the team conducted hands-on displays for the local community as part of Indo-Pacific Endeavour.

Families experienced the thrills of high-speed, first-person-view (FPV) drone racing while their heroes practised advanced fighter tactics in the skies above. The FPV drones could reach speeds more than 200km/h.

Children were inspired by interacting with the team to learn about how science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) can contribute to exciting careers working with drones.

Head of the drone racing delegation, Squadron Leader Joshua Vicino, said it was a great learning and engagement opportunity for the whole team.

“Drone racing is such a great sport, it’s got every aspect of STEM wrapped in one, plus flying,” he said. 

“Pilots need to be both technicians and operators. Not to mention, all the skills you need to race drones are directly applicable to roles in the ADF.”

After the display, Deputy Chief of Army from the Malaysian Defence Force said Australia was a trusted partner and that Malaysia looked forward to finding ways they can enhance defence innovation collaboration together.