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The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) serves as Australia’s principal air defence force. Established on 31 March 1921, the RAAF has consistently demonstrated its strength and professionalism in major operations such as the Berlin Airlift, the Vietnam War, and the Korean War. Renowned for its precision, sophistication, and technological advancement, the RAAF stands among the most capable and modern air forces in the world.
Guided by its inspiring motto, Per Ardua ad Astra—meaning “Through Adversity to the Stars”—the RAAF has proudly defended Australia’s airspace for nearly a century.
The rank structure of the Royal Australian Air Force is modelled after that of the Royal Air Force (RAF). A distinctive feature of RAAF ranks is the use of uppercase, space-free abbreviations—for instance, Air Commodore is abbreviated as AIRCDRE.
The Royal Australian Air Force is typically led by a three-star officer holding the rank of Air Marshal. However, if the Chief of the Defence Force is appointed from the RAAF, they are promoted to the higher rank of Air Chief Marshal.
Marshal of the Royal Australian Air Force is an honorary rank, and it has been held by His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
Below is the hierarchical list of officer ranks in the Royal Australian Air Force, arranged from highest to lowest:
| Rank | Insignia |
| Air Officers | |
| Marshal of the RAAF |  |
| Air Chief Marshal |  |
| Air Marshal |  |
| Air Vice-Marshal |  |
| Air Commodore |  |
| Senior Officers | |
| Group Captain |  |
| Wing Commander |  |
| Squadron Leader |  |
| Junior Officers | |
| Flight Lieutenant |  |
| Flying Officer |  |
| Pilot Officer |  |
