MQ-4C. Foto: Instagram @navairsyscom
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has just received its first MQ-4C patrol drone from Northrop Grumman. The drone, identified as A57-001, landed at Tyndale Air Base, which will be its permanent base.
+ Click here to watch the video
This first MQ-4C is now part of the 9th Squadron of the RAAF and will be primarily used for maritime patrols. Equipped with a specific set of sensors and systems, the drone will support the anti-submarine activities of the P-8A Poseidon aircraft, facilitating the detection of submarines.
Australia plans to acquire a total of seven MQ-4C drones, aiming to form an effective reconnaissance and anti-submarine unit known as the 92 Wing of the RAAF. One of the main features of the MQ-4C is the use of more robust fuselage parts, essential for operating at low altitudes above water, where the likelihood of bird strikes is higher.
This move is part of a broader effort to strengthen Australia’s defense capabilities, particularly in the anti-submarine and reconnaissance components of its air force. In addition to the MQ-4C drones, Australia is expanding its fleet of P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft, totaling 14 units, which form the core of the country’s anti-submarine forces.
The delivery of the remaining six MQ-4C drones to the RAAF is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025, thus completing the planned fleet of seven units.
Source and images: Instagram @navairsyscom. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
