The Australian Government has revealed the first MQ-4C Triton Remotely Piloted Aircraft System, known as ‘AUS 1’, set to be operated by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). The unveiling took place at RAAF Base Tindal and was officiated by the Deputy Prime Minister.
The MQ-4C Triton, a high-altitude, long-endurance aircraft, will enhance persistent surveillance over Australia’s maritime regions. This aircraft will work alongside the ADF’s crewed P-8A Poseidon fleet, forming a ‘family of systems’ to bolster intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities for Defence operations.
Four MQ-4C Triton aircraft will be stationed at RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory and operated by the Air Force’s reformed No. 9 Squadron, which is based at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia.
The Triton project signifies a $900 million investment in Australian industry, covering facilities construction, network integration, engineering, logistics, component manufacture, and sustainment services.
As part of this initiative, Defence has secured an interim sustainment support contract with Northrop Grumman Australia worth approximately $220 million. This agreement will create 110 technical jobs for skilled workers in South Australia and the Northern Territory.
“This is another example of the Albanese Government demonstrating its commitment to national security with our ongoing investment in cutting-edge capabilities. This is about ensuring our Australian Defence Force is fit for purpose and equipped with suitable capabilities to meet the challenges it will face,” stated Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles.
“We must continue to enhance our operations from Australia’s northern bases, and the MQ-4C Triton is a tangible example of a capability that will assist us in achieving this task,” he added.
Australian Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy, remarked, “With the investment in the MQ-4C Triton fleet and the increased commitment to Defence more broadly, the Australian Government is delivering a generational uplift in the long-range capabilities the ADF needs to make Australians safer and to protect our national interests. The MQ-4C Triton will significantly enhance the security of Australia’s maritime borders – a key priority supported by the Integrated Investment Program, and as outlined in the National Defence Strategy.”
The Chief of the RAAF, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, commented, “As a complement to our existing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, the MQ-4C Triton will significantly enhance our ability to persistently patrol Australia’s north and broader maritime approaches.
“The MQ-4C Triton will deliver unprecedented persistence and awareness over the maritime domain in support of the integrated, focused force,” he added.
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