Melbourne, Nov 3 Olympic golden girl Stephanie Rice's name will now be seen in the skies over the Middle East.

The Australian Defence Force's AP-3C Orion, from RAAF Edinburgh's Number 11 Squadron, will now be known as 'Stephanie'.

Corporal Andrew Summers said that the new AP-3C Orion was destined for success just like its namesake.

"The long smooth figure and design is built for speed and manoeuvrability whilst maintaining its sense of gracefulness," News.com.au quoted Summers, as saying.

Flight Lieutenant Jonathan Morgan made the naming official by spraying non-alcoholic champagne on the aircraft's nose.

Stephanie has been deployed to the Middle East Area of Operations. (ANI)