RAAF Base Darwin
RAAF Base Darwin PCS Guide
Military Base History
From Left; U.S. Marine Corps Col. Brian T. Mulvihill, the commanding officer of Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 24.3, Royal Australian Air Force Wing Cmdr. Lauren Guest, the senior Australian Defence Force officer of RAAF Base Darwin, Royal Australian Navy Capt. Mitchell Livingstone, the...
RAAF Base Darwin began as a strategic airfield in northern Australia, constructed in 1940 to bolster the nation's northern defense. Its original mission focused on protecting the vital port of Darwin and supporting Allied air operations in the region.
The base's location made it a key asset for rapid deployment and surveillance across the Asia-Pacific. Its proximity to regional hotspots allowed for quick response to emerging threats.
During World War II, RAAF Base Darwin became a frontline installation. It hosted both Australian and Allied air units, including the USAAF, and played a crucial role in the defense against Japanese air raids.
The base endured heavy bombing, most notably during the first major attack on 19 February 1942. This event marked the largest single attack ever mounted by a foreign power on Australia.
Post-war expansion saw the base modernized to support jet aircraft and new technologies. It remained a hub for air defense during the Cold War, hosting fighter squadrons and surveillance units.
Its runways and facilities were upgraded to accommodate larger aircraft, reinforcing its role in regional security. These improvements allowed the base to support a wider range of missions.
Today, RAAF Base Darwin serves as a joint-use facility, supporting both military and civilian aviation. It is a key staging point for multinational exercises like Pitch Black.
The base provides rapid response capabilities for humanitarian and disaster relief missions. It has retained its original name since establishment, reflecting its enduring connection to the city of Darwin and its strategic importance in Australia's defense posture.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Eduardo Ortiz, an MV-22B Osprey aircraft mechanic with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268 (Reinforced), Marine Rotational Force – Darwin 24.3, operates a Dremel on an MV-22B Osprey during Exercise Diamond Storm 24 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Darwin, NT,...
Major Units
No. 13 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force
Provides base support services, including logistics, administration, and force protection for RAAF Base Darwin and visiting units. Plays a crucial role in enabling sustained air operations in northern Australia.
No. 75 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force
Operates F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft, delivering air combat capability, air defense, and rapid response to contingencies in Australia’s northern approaches.
Northern Territory Regional Surveillance Unit (NORFORCE)
Conducts surveillance and reconnaissance operations across northern Australia, supporting both Defence and border security missions. Frequently operates in coordination with RAAF assets at Darwin.
Training Schools
Exercise Pitch Black (Hosted Training Event)
Overview
A large-scale, biennial multi-national air warfare exercise centered at RAAF Base Darwin, focusing on offensive and defensive air combat operations and interoperability with allied air forces.
Course Length
3 weeks (exercise duration)
Who Attends
Australian and allied aircrew, ground crew, and support personnel
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to RAAF Base Darwin. Arriving at a new base can be a busy time, so being prepared with the right documents and information will help make your check-in smooth and efficient. Review all requirements before your arrival to avoid delays and ensure you have a positive start at your new assignment. For more details, visit the official RAAF Base Darwin website.
The main entrance to RAAF Base Darwin is the primary access point for all personnel and visitors. The Main Gate operates 24/7, ensuring you can arrive at any time of day. All adults must present a valid Military ID, Defence Common Access Card (CAC), or an approved visitor pass. If using a civilian driver's license, ensure it meets REAL ID Act standards—non-compliant licenses may not be accepted for unescorted access. Security is a top priority, with 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections conducted at all times. Family members and visitors must be sponsored by a base-affiliated individual and obtain a visitor pass at the Visitor Control Center before entry. Always follow posted instructions and cooperate with security personnel to ensure a safe environment for everyone.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID or Defence CAC
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates for dependents
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical and Dental Records
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Immunization Records
RAAF Base Darwin offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit's administrative office before your move. They will assign a sponsor who can answer questions, provide local insights, and assist with your transition. If you have not been contacted by a sponsor, reach out to your unit's orderly room or personnel section for assistance.
Formal in-processing is conducted at the Welcome Center, located near the main administrative buildings on base. The center is open Monday to Friday, 0800–1630. During in-processing, you will visit key offices such as Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your specific needs and any required appointments. Arriving with all necessary documents will help you move through each step efficiently.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate of RAAF Base Darwin. The VCC operates Monday to Friday, 0700–1700, and is closed on weekends and public holidays. Services include issuing visitor passes, registering guests in the Defence Base Identification System (DBIDS), and assisting with sponsor approval for family or friends. All visitors must be accompanied by a base-affiliated sponsor and present valid identification.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Georgia – Personal Property manager Staff Sgt. Brent Rochette, noncommissioned officer in charge, 78th Logistics Readiness Squadron’s Traffic Management Office inspects the condition of shipped items at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Dec. 15, 2021.
When you receive PCS orders to RAAF Base Darwin, start by reviewing your orders and contacting the base Transportation Office. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to schedule your move and track your shipment. You can choose a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges movers, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), where you handle the move and may be reimbursed. Both options require early coordination for best results.
You are eligible for key entitlements such as Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE), which covers hotel costs during your transition, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA), which helps offset relocation expenses. These benefits help reduce out-of-pocket costs. Make sure to keep receipts and understand the claim process.
DPS is your main tool for managing your move. It provides step-by-step guidance and tracks your shipment status. Early use of DPS streamlines your PCS and helps you stay informed. For any questions, contact the base Transportation Office for support.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local in-processing.
- Keep orders, IDs, and vital documents with you during travel.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess charges.
- Label boxes clearly and take photos of valuable items.
- Contact the Transportation Office as soon as you receive orders.
- Plan pet travel and quarantine requirements well in advance.
- Book temporary lodging early, especially during peak PCS season.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and track your household goods move.
Find current per diem rates and travel entitlements.
Guidance and checklists for every step of your PCS.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance (DLA).