9 Squadron has officially reformed, marking its proud return to Air Force service with a ceremony at Torrens Parade Ground, South Australia.

The event honoured the squadron’s Vietnam War veterans and celebrated the arrival of a restored Bell UH-1 Iroquois ‘Huey’ helicopter, a symbol of the unit’s enduring legacy and the connection between past and present generations of aviators.

The reformation also marked 100 years since the squadron’s birth in 1925, when it began as 101 Fleet Co-operation Flight at Bowen, Queensland. 

From seaplanes to helicopters, and now the cutting-edge MQ-4C Triton, 9 Squadron’s evolution reflects the adaptability, innovation and spirit of the Royal Australian Air Force.

Commanding Officer 9 Squadron Wing Commander Lawry Benier said the day was a moment to reflect on the courage and mateship that defined the squadron’s Vietnam service and to recognise those who shaped its history.

“The proud legacy of 9 Squadron lives once again,” Wing Commander Benier said. 

“To the Vietnam veterans of 9 Squadron, welcome back. This squadron is yours, and today we honour your legacy.

“From the moment 9 Squadron deployed to Vung Tau in 1966, its members set the standard for how an Air Force unit should operate in war. You showed what it means to serve with courage, mateship and quiet determination.”

'9 Squadron flies again, and with it, the spirit of those who came before soars once more.'

By the end of its Vietnam deployment, 9 Squadron had flown more than 237,000 missions – a testament to the skill, endurance and sacrifice of its members who served under constant threat in some of the most challenging conditions of modern warfare.

“As we reflect on that service, we remember those members of 9 Squadron who paid the ultimate sacrifice,” Wing Commander Benier said.

“Their names and their courage are etched into our history and into the hearts of all who follow in their footsteps.”

Air Commander Australia Air Vice-Marshal Glen Braz said the squadron’s reformation signified both renewal and remembrance, bridging a century of service between the aviators of the past and those serving today.

“The legacy of 9 Squadron has never faded and continues to inspire every aviator who serves under its banner today,” he said.

“With the arrival of the MQ-4C Triton, the squadron now delivers an unprecedented long-range, persistent and networked intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capability.”

The ceremony was also an opportunity to honour those who served before, with the presentation of the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Unit Citation formally recognising the squadron’s bravery.

“To the veterans of 9 Squadron, we honour you and we thank you. Your actions will never be forgotten,” Air Vice-Marshal Braz said.

“9 Squadron flies again, and with it, the spirit of those who came before soars once more.”