Display the distinctive flag of the Royal Australian Air Force with this woven RAAF Ensign patch, set against a Disruptive Pattern Camouflage Uniform (DPCU), commonly known as Auscam, background. Designed for attachment to compatible loop panels, it provides a recognisable Australian military aviation insignia for tactical clothing, backpacks, equipment and military collections.
History of the RAAF Ensign
The Royal Australian Air Force Ensign has its own history, separate from the Australian National Flag. When the Australian Air Force was established in 1921, it initially used the British Royal Air Force Ensign. The need for a flag that better represented Australia's national identity led to the development of a distinctive Australian design.
In 1948, King George VI approved a new RAAF Ensign incorporating Australian national symbols. It retained the light blue field and Union Jack in the upper corner, while adding the Commonwealth Star and the Southern Cross. The design was formally adopted by the RAAF in 1949, distinguishing the Australian service flag from its British counterpart.
A further change followed the development of a uniquely Australian aircraft roundel. The red kangaroo in motion had been selected for the RAAF roundel in 1956, replacing the earlier red, white and blue RAF-style centre. In 1981, the kangaroo was incorporated into the RAAF Ensign's roundel, and the revised design received Royal Assent. On 6 May 1982, it was formally proclaimed as the Royal Australian Air Force Ensign under the Flags Act 1953.
The Ensign's elements carry national and service significance. The light blue field represents the sky, the Commonwealth Star represents Australia, and the Southern Cross identifies the flag with the southern hemisphere. The kangaroo roundel gives the Ensign its distinctive Australian Air Force identity. It remains the Battle Ensign of the RAAF and is flown at Air Force bases and establishments.
Features
- Woven Royal Australian Air Force Ensign design
- DPCU (Auscam) camouflage background
- Distinctive Australian military aviation insignia
- Hook-and-loop backing for attachment to compatible loop panels
- Removable and repositionable attachment
- Suitable for compatible tactical clothing, backpacks and equipment
- A useful addition to RAAF and Australian military memorabilia collections
Specifications
Brand: COMMANDO
Product Code: BD0305
Barcode / GTIN: 9357994010845
Design: Royal Australian Air Force Ensign
Background: DPCU (Auscam)
Construction: Woven patch
Attachment: Hook and loop backing
Dimensions: 80 x 50 mm
Combining the history of the Royal Australian Air Force Ensign with a camouflage background, this COMMANDO patch is a practical identification accessory and a distinctive piece for collectors of Australian military insignia.