The MQ-4C Triton high altitude, long endurance, remotely piloted aircraft system arrived at RAAF Base Tindal in the top end on 16 June after travelling from the US.
The Defence Counter-UAS Directed Energy Weapons System, manufactured by high power laser start-up AIM Defence, was demonstrated with assistance from company employees and ADF personnel at Puckapunyal Military Area, Victoria.
When in service, the MQ-4C Triton aircraft will be based at RAAF Base Tindal, Northern Territory, and operated by the Air Force’s reformed No. 9 Squadron, located at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia.
Military personnel discussed aviation safety and international partners gathered for the inaugural International Combat Aviation Safety Summit in Canberra last month.
Nearly 2,400 people have signed a petition to preserve and display one of the remaining 41 F/A-18 ‘Classic’ Hornet fighter jet aircraft destined for destruction.
Having been granted an exemption, the firm restricted employment for current and previous citizens or permanent residents of countries other than Australia and the US.
Under the newly announced changes, eligible New Zealanders living in Australia can apply to join the ADF from July this year, while eligible permanent residents from the other nations will also be able to apply from January 2025.
The upgrades are expected to allow greater training opportunities to conduct enhanced land and air operations between Australia and the United States militaries, at the Bradshaw Field Training Area in the NT.