Commands
| Command | Role | Principal regional network |
|---|---|---|
| Air Combat Command | Interception, multirole defence and long-range land strike | Australian east/west airbase networks, Singapore and northern island stations |
| Maritime Air Command | Land-based ocean patrol and reconnaissance in support of both fleets | Australia, New Zealand, PNG, West Papua, Fiji and treaty access stations |
| Air Mobility Command | Tankers, strategic/tactical transport, aeromedical evacuation and disaster response | Distributed national hubs with Pacific forward support |
| Air Surveillance and Electronic Systems Command | Air battle management, radar, signals support and electronic warfare | National sensor network integrated with fleet and intelligence agencies |
| Space and Rocket Division | Launch programmes, satellites, tracking, space surveillance and rocket research | Woomera research, national launch infrastructure and southern/Pacific tracking stations |
| Training and Reserve Command | Aircrew, engineering, medical and national-service training | Australian/NZ aviation schools and regional technical colleges |
Aircraft policy
The fleet uses allied aircraft where they meet range, deployment and support needs, while national engineers retain mission-computer, radar, communications and electronic-protection competence. American fighters and large support aircraft form the principal modern lineage; British and French designs contribute earlier fighters, bombers and experimental work. New Zealand’s aircraft, avionics and simulator industry becomes a major part of the network.
Fighter variants are chosen for the operating environment. A land-based aircraft does not become a carrier aircraft merely by receiving a maritime paint scheme. The F-111N programme has a separate naval structural and flight-test lineage. The original F-111N, FB-111N, RF-111N and EF-111N specialisations remain intact; the FB-111N is the broadest strike/all-round weapons platform.
Northern and Pacific stations
Singapore, Papua New Guinea, West Papua, Fiji and New Zealand contribute air defence, patrol, airlift and local technical training. Whangārei and Christchurch host distinct North and South Island administrative/training commands. Small territories maintain support stations or visiting detachments rather than a separate complete fighter force. Foreign bases in Malaysia and Vietnam operate by treaty and remain outside national territory.
Space and military rocketry
The Space and Rocket Division is an Air Force institution. Naval weapons remain under naval operational command and Army artillery under Army command; Air Force control of national launch and research infrastructure does not transfer every ship or field weapon to the Air Force. Civilian universities and manufacturers participate under national security and civilian budget oversight.