Portal:Military history of Australia/Units/June 16

A RAAF work boat alongside a Sunderland flying boat

The Royal Australian Air Force Maritime Section was the branch of the Royal Australian Air Force responsible for manning the service's boats. The RAAF's first boats were obtained in 1921 to support Fairey III seaplanes. The RAAF Maritime Section was massively expanded during World War II and at its peak operated over 600 powered and 700 unpowered craft. Small maritime sections were established at many RAAF bases in Australia and the South West Pacific and were administered by the units they supported. Following the war the RAAF Maritime Section was greatly reduced and the Maritime Section was disbanded in January 1993.