Ninth Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boat Delivered

12 September 2025

ADV Cape Spencer-225, the ninth Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boat (photo: Austal Australia)

Defence has accepted the ninth Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boat, ADV Cape Spencer, built at Henderson shipyard in Western Australia.

Built by Austal Ships Pty Ltd under project SEA1445 Phase 1, the Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boats contribute to the whole of Government effort to protect Australia's borders and offshore interests. 

ADV Cape Spencer will work alongside other Royal Australian Navy and Australian Border Force vessels enhancing the capability for civil maritime surveillance and enforcement in Australian waters. 

Deputy Secretary Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment, David Hanley, said the delivery of ADV Cape Spencer  was another important milestone in enhancing Australia’s maritime security. 

“Under project SEA1445 Phase 1, the Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boats have been delivered approximately every six months, contributing to Australia’s ability to effectively protect our borders and offshore interests. 

“Delivery of the ninth Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boat is a key example of a shared commitment between Defence and Industry to delivering capability to our ADF on time and on budget,” Mr Hanley said. 

The final Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boat for the Royal Australian Navy, ADV Cape Hawke, is currently under construction at Henderson shipyard. 

(Aus DoD)

Anduril Wins a Large Fleet of Ghost Shark Contract

12 September 2025

Three prototype of Ghost Shark have been built under the contract of May 2022 (all photos: Anduril)

Equipping the Royal Australian Navy with next generation autonomous undersea vehicles

The Albanese Government is investing $1.7 billion to acquire a new fleet of Australian­‑designed and built extra-large autonomous undersea vehicles – known as the Ghost Shark – for the Royal Australian Navy.                       

Defence has signed a contract with Anduril Australia for the delivery, maintenance and continued development of the Ghost Shark over the next five years. 

The cutting edge platform is designed to conduct intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and strike operations, stealthily and at long range. It will deliver a significant boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities – complementing Navy’s future surface combatant fleet and conventionally‑armed, nuclear‑powered submarines.

Australia to acquire an undisclosed number of Ghost Shark XL UUV valued $1.7 billion (photo: Anduril)

This announcement builds on the approximately $140 million the Australian Government has already invested in the development of the Ghost Shark platform, payloads and production facilities since entering into a collaborative contract with Anduril in 2022. 

Working alongside Defence personnel, Australia’s defence industry and workforce is crucial to delivering this capability. 

This five-year contract will support around 120 existing jobs and create more than 150 new highly-skilled, long-term jobs at Anduril Australia.

There are now more than 40 Australian companies working as part of the Ghost Shark supply chain, which are expected to add a further 600 jobs as a result of this investment.

Delivery of uncrewed undersea and surface vessels will provide Australia’s Defence Force an asymmetric capability advantage – a key priority outlined in the 2024 National Defence Strategy. 

Continued investment in this capability presents a unique opportunity for Australia to design, engineer, and manufacture sovereign uncrewed maritime warfare capabilities, with strong prospects for export opportunities.

Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles: 

“The Ghost Shark is a world-leading platform made right here in Australia. 

“The Albanese Government’s investments in the Ghost Shark are fast-charging the development of long‑range, undersea autonomous vehicles for our Navy while also backing Australian businesses. 

“Over the next five years and beyond the Ghost Shark will equip Navy with the intelligence, surveillance and strike capabilities it needs in an increasingly complex strategic environment.”

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:

“This is a critical capability that the Albanese Government is delivering at pace – with all three prototypes delivered on budget and ahead of schedule.

“Our investment backs in 120 existing workers and creates more than 150 new high-skilled, local jobs.

“This reflects the Albanese Government’s unwavering commitment to supporting Australian innovation, backing Australian workers and building a defence future made in Australia.”

(Aus DoD)

Australia Strengthens Anti Submarine Warfare Training with Acquire Additional AUV62-AT from Saab

11 Agustus 2025

AUV62-AT autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) as a cheaper alternative to submarines for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) training (photo: Saab Kockums)

The Royal Australian Navy will acquire an additional AUV62-AT autonomous anti-submarine warfare (ASW) training target.

AUV62-AT used as training target that simulates a submarine, torpedo, or uncrewed vehicle could can operate at speeds of up to 12 kt submerged and 3 kt on the surface. Endurance is more than three hours (photo: Saab)

Saab Australia has been contracted to provide the additional AUV62-AT – an autonomous underwater vehicle and training target that simulates a submarine, torpedo, or uncrewed vehicle.

The additional AUV62-AT is set to strengthen Australia’s hashtag#ASW capabilities.

(Saab Australia)

Boeing Tambahkan Loyal Wingman Ghost Bat pada Tawaran F-15EX untuk Polandia

08 Agustus 2025

"Team Eagle" – Boeing, BAE Systems, GE Aerospace and Raytheon untuk pemasaran F-15EX ke Polandia (image: Boeing)

Boeing telah menambah penawarannya untuk memenuhi kebutuhan potensial Polandia akan platform udara tempur bermesin ganda dengan kemampuan pesawat tempur kolaboratif/ collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) pada pameran MSPO 2025 di Kielce, Polandia, yang berlangsung dari 2 hingga 5 September.

Boeing F-15EX Eagle II yang beroperasi bersama sepasang "loyal wingmen" Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat, sesuai tawaran terbaru kepada Polandia (image: Boeing)

Perusahaan yang berbasis di AS ini mempromosikan F-15EX Eagle II kepada Ministry of National Defence (MND) Polandia sebagai bagian dari 'Tim Eagle' bersama General Electric, BAE Systems, dan Raytheon di MSPO 2024. Pada acara tahun ini, perusahaan juga memilih untuk mempromosikan CCA MQ-28 Ghost Bat, yang menurut para pejabat dapat membantu memenuhi persyaratan Polandia akan "massa yang terjangkau".

MQ-28 Ghost Bat loyal wingman (photo: Boeing)

Berbicara di meja bundar media di MSPO 2025, Direktur Senior Pengembangan Bisnis Internasional Boeing, Tim Flood, mengonfirmasi bahwa MQ-28 (yang dikembangkan oleh Boeing Defence Australia dan Persemakmuran Australia) telah melakukan "ratusan" uji terbang. Ia menambahkan bahwa uji coba senjata udara-ke-udara dijadwalkan berlangsung dalam 12 bulan ke depan, di samping kerja sama tim berawak-nirawak (MUM-T) dengan pesawat tempur berawak pada tahun 2026. (Jane's)

Collaborative Combat Aircraft MQ-28 Ghost Bat dengan F-35A dan MQ-4C Triton armada RAAF (photo: RAAF)

Boeing Selesaikan Demo Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) MQ-28 Ghost Bat di Australia

Boeing dan RAAF Membuktikan Efektivitas Operasional MQ-28

WOOMERA, Australia Selatan -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] dan Angkatan Udara Kerajaan Australia (RAAF) telah berhasil menyelesaikan demonstrasi yang membuktikan kelayakan operasional Pesawat Tempur Kolaboratif (CCA) MQ-28 Ghost Bat.

Demonstrasi yang ditetapkan RAAF mengharuskan MQ-28 untuk menjalankan serangkaian misi operasional yang relevan yang dirancang untuk melengkapi dan meningkatkan kemampuan platform berawak yang ada.

Platform MQ-28 tanpa awak dan versi digitalnya kini telah menyelesaikan 150 jam dan lebih dari 20.000 jam pengujian virtual. Misi Capability Demonstration 2025 diselesaikan pada awal Juni, empat bulan lebih cepat dari jadwal, dan memvalidasi:

-perilaku otonom dan eksekusi misi

-operasi multi-pesawat untuk menyediakan massa tempur

-operasi penempatan ke Pangkalan RAAF Tindal

-bekerja sama dengan pesawat peringatan dini dan kendali udara E-7A Wedgetail, dan

-fusi data dan berbagi data antara beberapa pesawat MQ-28 dan transmisi data tersebut ke platform berawak.

Collaborative Combat Aircraft MQ-28 Ghost Bat dengan F/A-18E/F Super Hornet atau E/A-18G Growler armada RAAF (image: Boeing)

MQ-28 adalah kemampuan otonom unik yang dirancang untuk melengkapi elemen menemukan, memperbaiki, melacak, dan menargetkan pertempuran udara dengan perilaku otonom dan mengurangi risiko bagi platform berawak.

"RAAF menetapkan tugas untuk membuktikan empat langkah pertama dalam rantai Pertempuran Udara untuk MQ-28 dan kami telah menyelesaikannya lebih cepat dari yang diantisipasi," kata Glen Ferguson, direktur program Global MQ-28.

"Menyelesaikan pekerjaan ini lebih awal memungkinkan kami untuk mempercepat fase pengembangan selanjutnya – pelibatan dan penilaian – dengan uji coba senjata udara-ke-udara yang direncanakan akhir tahun ini atau awal 2026. Demonstrasi telah membuktikan kematangan kemampuan MQ-28 dan kegunaan CCA serta penerapannya pada bauran kekuatan masa depan," kata Ferguson.

Collaborative Combat Aircraft MQ-28 Ghost Bat dengan E-7A AEW&C armada RAAF (image: Boeing)

Kemampuan yang telah divalidasi sepanjang tahun 2025 akan diintegrasikan ke dalam pesawat Blok 2 yang saat ini sedang diproduksi, membentuk dasar kemampuan operasional awal bagi RAAF dan mitra sekutunya.

Sebagai perusahaan kedirgantaraan global terkemuka dan eksportir utama AS, Boeing mengembangkan, memproduksi, dan melayani pesawat komersial, produk pertahanan, dan sistem antariksa bagi pelanggan di lebih dari 150 negara. Tenaga kerja dan basis pemasok kami di AS dan global mendorong inovasi, peluang ekonomi, keberlanjutan, dan dampak bagi masyarakat. Boeing berkomitmen untuk membangun budaya yang didasarkan pada nilai-nilai inti kami, yaitu keselamatan, kualitas, dan integritas. (Boeing)

Penerbang F-16 TNI AU Asah Kemampuan Isi Bahan Bakar di Udara bersama KC-30A RAAF

07 September 20251

Latihan pengisian bahan bakar di udara (Air-to-Air Refueling/AAR) (photos: TNI AU)

Penerbang F-16 TNI Angkatan Udara (TNI AU) mengasah kemampuan dengan melaksanakan latihan pengisian bahan bakar di udara (Air-to-Air Refueling/AAR) bersama pesawat tanker KC-30A Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) di military training area Lanud Roesmin Nurjadin, Kamis (28/8/2025). 

Kegiatan ini bagian dari rangkaian Latihan Bersama (Latma) Elang Ausindo antara TNI AU dan RAAF.

Latihan AAR bertujuan meningkatkan keterampilan penerbang sekaligus memperkuat interoperabilitas kedua angkatan udara. Metode ini memungkinkan perpanjangan radius jelajah, peningkatan daya tahan tempur, serta fleksibilitas operasi udara.

Danwing Udara 6 sekaligus Direktur Latma Elang Ausindo dari TNI AU, Kolonel Pnb Adhi Safarul Akbar, menyampaikan bahwa integrasi AAR menambah bobot latihan sekaligus membuat skenario semakin realistis.

“Dengan dukungan air-to-air refueling, skenario yang kami desain semakin mendekati operasi sesungguhnya, sehingga meningkatkan kualitas pelatihan dan kesiapan tempur,” ujar Danwing Udara 6.

Kegiatan ini menjadi wujud penguatan hubungan bilateral antara TNI AU dan RAAF. Selain itu, latihan ini juga selaras dengan nilai TNI AU AMPUH (Adaptif, Modern, Profesional, Unggul, dan Humanis) yang diinisiasi Kasau Marsekal TNI M. Tonny Harjono, S.E., M.M., serta mendukung program prioritas TNI AU, khususnya di bidang peningkatan kualitas SDM.

(TNI AU)

Australian Navy Upgrades Its Satellite Communications

05 September 2025

The Maritime Advanced SATCOM Terrestrial Infrastructure System (MASTIS) is removed from HMAS Sydney at Garden Island, NSW (photo: RAN)

Navy’s SATCOM transformation begins

A sweeping project to replace Navy’s satellite communications got underway in August with the upgrade of HMAS Sydney’s SATCOM capability from the current Maritime Advanced SATCOM Terrestrial Infrastructure System (MASTIS) to the King Cobra system. 

The MASTIS system was the first of its kind when installed across the fleet in the early 2000s. 

The dual-band terminal could transmit and receive simultaneously across multiple SATCOM frequencies and enabled communication with the Optus/ADF satellite constellation launched in 2003. 

The King Cobra and Cobra systems were selected as Navy’s primary and alternate SATCOM systems to replace MASTIS after 25 years. 

Developed with support through the Defence Innovation Hub, the King Cobra and Cobra systems provide an enhanced capability and are capable of operating on the Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) constellations. 

The new systems provide greater bandwidth and coverage to satellites in different orbits, leading to more assured communications for the fleet.

The WGS constellation in geostationary orbit provides communications for the United States military and partner forces such as Australia. 

The installation of the King Cobra terminal on six frigates commences with HMAS Ballarat next year. 

The King Cobra can communicate with satellites in low-Earth orbit to geostationary orbit and will be installed on the guided-missile destroyers, landing helicopter docks, auxiliary oiler replenishment ships and landing ship docks, with HMAS Sydney being the first to receive the King Cobra SATCOM system. 

The rollout is expected to be completed by the end of the decade. 

Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group project manager Ruiqi Wang said the new systems provide greater bandwidth and coverage to satellites in different orbits, leading to more assured communications for the fleet. 

In 2023, it was announced Brisbane communications company EM Solutions would provide upgraded SATCOM systems under a contract worth $150 million. 

Mr Wang said domestic manufacture and supply was important for maintaining system components across the existing fleet.

(Aus DoD)

Growlers, Hornets Deploy to Philippines for First Time

04 September 2025

A Royal Australian Air Force EA-18G Growler lands at Clark Air Base, Philippines, during Exercise ALON 2025 (photos: Aus DoD)

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has taken air combat capability to the next level, deploying EA-18G Growlers and F/A-18F Super Hornets to the Philippines for the first time as part of Exercise Alon 2025.

Based at Clark Air Base on Luzon, the combat aircraft and aviators operated alongside Philippine Air Force FA-50PH fighter jets in complex air combat training serials.

Deploying advanced fighter and electronic warfare aircraft into the Philippines required the coordinated effort of more than 120 personnel across the Air Task Group (ATG) in close cooperation with the Philippine Air Force.

The deployment demonstrates Australia’s ability not only to operate its fast jets from home soil, but to project capability at pace into the region.

Commander ATG Wing Commander Sal said the achievement highlighted Australia’s ability to deliver decisive effects abroad.

“Getting the Growlers and the Super Hornets here took a lot of effort from everybody,” Wing Commander Sal said.

“We’ve proven that we can rapidly mobilise, integrate and generate combat air power in an overseas location, and do it well.”

Exercise Alon provided a platform for Australia and the Philippines to strengthen defence ties and build real-world interoperability across multiple domains.

'Australia and the Philippines have long shared a united stance on freedom of manoeuvre and regional security. Working together here reinforces our commitment to that.'

As part of the exercise, RAAF Growlers and Super Hornets flew dissimilar air combat tactics (DACT) and basic flight manoeuvres (BFM) with the Philippine Air Force, while RAAF P-8A Poseidons, KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transports, C-17A Globemasters and C-130J Hercules supported joint maritime, airlift and refuelling missions.

The exercise also enabled the Philippine Air Force to demonstrate its expanding capabilities with A-29B Super Tucanos, T-129 ATAK and AW-109 attack helicopters, Black Hawk utility helicopters and SOKOL multipurpose helicopters.

Commander ATG emphasised the importance of training together to continue to build on these close working relationships.

“Australia and the Philippines have long shared a united stance on freedom of manoeuvre and regional security,” Wing Commander Sal said.

“Working together here reinforces our commitment to that.

“Having Australian and Philippine aircrews working side by side in Philippine skies is more than training, it shows we can operate together, can respond together and we will stand together to protect regional security.”

Exercise Alon ran from August 15 to 29 as a tangible demonstration of Australia’s enduring commitment to the rules-based global order and to the sovereignty and security of its regional partners.

It is the largest overseas military exercise for Australia in 2025 with more than 3600 personnel participating from the ADF and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, as well as elements of the Royal Canadian Navy and the United States Marine Corps, Marine Rotation Force – Darwin.

(Aus DoD)

Australia Lays Keel of NUSHIP Carpentaria as Sixth and Final Arafura-class OPV

01 September 2025

Keel laying of sixth and final Arafura-class OPV (photos: Civmec)

Offshore Patrol Vessel NUSHIP Carpentaria Keel Laying Ceremony

A ceremony was held today to mark the laying of the keel of Arafura class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) 6, NUSHIP Carpentaria at Henderson, Western Australia. This is another significant milestone for Australia’s Naval Shipbuilding Program and the Royal Australian Navy.

Rear Admiral Michael Houghton, Head of Patrol Boats and Specialist Ships represented the ceremony, honouring tradition by positioning a coin under the keel of NUSHIP Carpentaria.

“A keel laying ceremony which marks the beginning of a ship’s construction, is an important naval tradition which is believed to bring good luck for the vessel’s build and life at sea,” Rear Admiral Michael Houghton said.

“The OPV program is a major contributor to continuous naval shipbuilding in Australia, which creates and sustains local jobs and harnesses our national defence industry’s local talent and technology.

“Defence investment in a sovereign Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment Enterprise is expected to support around 8,500 jobs in shipbuilding and sustainment by 2030.

“OPVs help patrol and secure Australia’s maritime border alongside the Evolved Cape Class patrol boats. They also play an important role in Navy’s commitment to supporting the long-term objectives of the National Defence Strategy.”

The first two vessels were constructed at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia with the remaining four are currently under construction at the Henderson Maritime Precinct. The first ship, HMAS Arafura, was commissioned into service on 28 June 2025 with the second OPV, NUSHIP Eyre, expected to be delivered later this year. 

The OPVs are a more versatile platform compared with previous classes of patrol vessels. They are able to operate over longer distances and can be reconfigured to perform a number of tasks and roles originally carried out by several different classes of vessels.

(Aus DoD)

Australia Delivered New Landing Craft to Tonga

29 Desember 2025

VOEA Late, a new landing craft vessel for Tonga (photos: Australia in Tonga)

Australia has successfully delivered a new landing craft vessel to Tonga today, with an official handover ceremony taking place at the Masefield Naval Base. 

The ceremony was attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupouto‘a ‘Ulukalala, Tonga's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for His Majesty's Armed Forces, who received the vessel on behalf of Tonga.

The VOEA Late, provided under the Pacific Maritime Security Program (PMSP), will enhance Tonga’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities, as well as their ability to deter, detect and disrupt illegal maritime activities in the region.

Australia will provide a comprehensive package of through-life maintenance and sustainment for the vessel, alongside training for Tonga Royal Navy crew members. 

Defence’s First Assistant Secretary Pacific Division, Susan Bodell, said the delivery highlighted Australia’s commitment to supporting our Pacific partners’ maritime security.

“Australia and Tonga share a trusted and enduring security partnership,” Ms Bodell said.

“The delivery of the new landing craft builds on decades of partnership, and upholds our shared commitment to sovereignty, security and prosperity in the Pacific.”

The delivery follows the completion of comprehensive training undertaken by Tonga Royal Navy personnel at the Australian Maritime College in Tasmania. The training equipped the crew with the necessary skills to safely operate the vessel.

The PMSP is Australia’s 30 year commitment to increase national and regional maritime security throughout the Pacific, and builds on the three decades of success in the original Pacific Patrol Boat Program.

(Aus DoD)

Dogfight F-16 TNI AU dan F-35 RAAF Warnai Latihan Elang Ausindo 2025

28 Agustus 2025

Latihan F-16C/D TNI AU dan F-35A RAAF (photos: TNI AU)

TNI Angkatan Udara (TNI AU) dan Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) melaksanakan latihan tempur udara (dogfight) antara F-16 Fighting Falcon dan F-35 Lightning II dalam rangkaian Latihan Bersama Elang Ausindo 2025 di Lanud Roesmin Nurjadin, Pekanbaru, Senin (25/8/2025). Latihan ini menjadi ajang penguatan interoperabilitas sekaligus uji kemampuan dua angkatan udara dalam skenario pertempuran modern.

Perbedaan karakteristik kedua pesawat membuat jalannya latihan semakin menantang. F-16 TNI AU yang dikenal lincah di udara berhadapan dengan F-35 RAAF, pesawat generasi kelima yang memiliki keunggulan avionik dan sistem sensor canggih.

Direktur Latma Elang Ausindo dari TNI AU, Kolonel Pnb Adhi Safarul Akbar, menegaskan bahwa kegiatan ini menjadi kesempatan berharga bagi penerbang TNI AU untuk meningkatkan kemampuan tempur sekaligus mempelajari karakteristik pesawat generasi terbaru. “Melalui latihan ini, para penerbang kami dapat mengevaluasi kekuatan dan kelemahan lawan secara langsung,” ujarnya.

Latihan ini juga mencerminkan TNI AU yang AMPUH (Adaptif, Modern, Profesional, Unggul, dan Humanis) sebagaimana ditekankan Kasau Marsekal TNI M. Tonny Harjono, S.E., M.M. sekaligus implementasi program prioritas TNI AU, khususnya dalam peningkatan kualitas SDM agar siap menghadapi tantangan operasi udara masa depan.

(TNI AU)

Australia, UK Partner on Guided Weapons R&D

25 Agustus 2025

Defence Science and Technology Group’s Sharktooth technology on display at the Australian International Airshow 2025 (photo: DSTG)

The adoption of novel weapons and tactics in today’s battlespace is happening at an extremely rapid rate.

To build competitive advantage, Australia is pursuing greater defence technology cooperation with international partners to accelerate the delivery of advanced military capabilities for the warfighter.

A new partnership between Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) and the United Kingdom’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) will bring together cutting-edge technologies from both countries to develop affordable, next-generation guided weapons systems.

Signed in February 2025, the Copperhead Project Arrangement (PA) aims to accelerate weapons development with innovative ‘plug and launch’ modular technology to deliver advanced, yet low-cost, guided weapons subsystems. 

Copperhead leverages Australia’s existing Sharktooth technology and combines it with the United Kingdom’s Modular Weapons Testbed – capitalising on both nations’ shared expertise to bring concept to capability faster.  

Led by DSTG, Sharktooth is a small guided missile project that enables rapid integration of components like sensors, warheads, guidance systems and propulsion units.

DSTG Research Leader Dr Michael Sharp said ‘plug and play’ modular technology offered the Australian Defence Force an effective and agile response to evolving threats and countermeasure on the battlefield. 

“The pinnacle of which could be ‘plug and launch’ enabling the soldier in the field to adapt to the mission at hand by combining weapon components or a mix of weapons,” Dr Sharp said.

“The disruption that this offers over more conventional weapons approaches has the potential to confer asymmetric advantage, contributing to a strategy of deterrence.”

The PA will also grow sovereign manufacturing capability through research and development (R&D), central to the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Plan to deliver the Government’s Future Made in Australia agenda.

'In an increasingly challenging and contested global security environment, Australia must strengthen its industrial and technology cooperation with international partners to pool resources and give Australia a genuine competitive edge.'

Under the GWEO research and development program, the Australian Government has invested nearly $60 million for domestic industry to partner with DSTG on GWEO sub-systems technologies.

Copperhead will boost this effort by driving new Australian defence industry bases in sub-systems where there is currently limited or no capability in Australia.

For example, it will support the creation of future capabilities including rocket motors and propulsion modules, modular warheads and fuzes, advanced seekers and innovative guidance, navigation and control technologies.

“The agreement expands our ability to leverage new technologies from a more diverse range of industry partners and will speed development by integrating technology for test and evaluation in weapons realistic test beds,” Dr Sharp said. 

Chief Defence Scientist Professor Tanya Monro said Copperhead combined the strengths of DSTG and Dstl to deliver asymmetric advantage in a deteriorating strategic environment.

“In an increasingly challenging and contested global security environment, Australia must strengthen its industrial and technology cooperation with international partners to pool resources and give Australia a genuine competitive edge,” Professor Monro said.

“Our ability to deliver advanced defence capabilities is underpinned by international partnerships like this one, enabling game-changing ideas and cutting-edge science to be developed with speed into capabilities that provide the ADF an advantage.”

The groundbreaking partnership illustrates how Defence is prioritising innovation, science and technology (IS&T) to deliver a focused, integrated and more lethal ADF under the 2024 National Defence Strategy and Defence IS&T Strategy: Accelerating Asymmetric Advantage – Delivering More, Together.

(Aus DoD)

Australia Receives Two Triton Aircraft

23 Agustus 2025

Delivery of second and third MQ-4C Triton at RAAF Base Tindal, Northern Territory (photos: Aus DoD)

The Royal Australian Air Force recently received their second and third MQ-4C Triton uncrewed maritime surveillance aircraft.

 

With the delivery of these aircraft, Australia continues to field the most advanced high-altitude, long-endurance capability to safeguard its maritime interests.

Northrop Grumman delivered two MQ-4C Tritons to the Royal Australian Air Force, bringing Australia’s fleet to three aircraft.

Australia’s Triton program is on track with a fourth aircraft currently in production.

(Northrop Grumman)

Pesawat F-35 Lightning II Australia Ikuti Elang Ausindo 2025 di Pekanbaru

21 Agustus 2025

Satu flight F-35 Lightning II dan pesawat tanker KC-30A RAAF tiba di lanud RSN (photos: Lanud RSN)

Flight pesawat tempur generasi kelima F-35 Lightning II milik Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) mendarat di Pangkalan TNI AU Roesmin Nurjadin, Pekanbaru, Rabu (20/8/2025). Kedatangan ini menjadi tanda kesiapan pelaksanaan Latihan Bersama Elang Ausindo 2025 yang dijadwalkan resmi dimulai besok pagi.

Armada tempur dari Skadron 77 RAAF disambut langsung oleh Komandan Lanud Roesmin Nurjadin Marsma TNI Abdul Haris, M.M.Pol., M.M.O.A.S. Dalam sambutannya, Danlanud menyampaikan pesan hangat kepada para penerbang Australia. “Selamat datang di Pangkalan TNI AU Roesmin Nurjadin, selamat datang di Indonesia, dan selamat berlatih kembali di Pulau Sumatera,” ujarnya.

Penyambutan berlangsung hangat dan penuh keakraban. Sebagai bentuk penghormatan sekaligus sambutan khas Bumi Lancang Kuning, para penerbang TNI AU memakaikan tanjak Melayu kepada para penerbang F-35. Tradisi ini menjadi simbol persahabatan dan penghormatan budaya kepada tamu internasional.

Kedatangan flight F-35 RAAF turut dikawal oleh pesawat tanker KC-30A yang membawa kru, logistik, serta peralatan pendukung ferry flight. Kehadiran unsur pendukung tersebut menunjukkan kesiapan penuh RAAF dalam mengikuti latihan bersama dengan TNI AU.

Latihan Elang Ausindo 2025 akan berlangsung pada 21–29 Agustus 2025, melibatkan berbagai skenario latihan udara strategis. Latihan ini diharapkan semakin memperkuat interoperabilitas, kerja sama militer, dan hubungan bilateral antara Indonesia Australia, khususnya di bidang pertahanan udara.

(Lanud RSN)

US Approves 161 Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Unit Sale to Australia

20 Agustus 2025

Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Unit (photo: RTX)

WASHINGTON - The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia of Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Unit and related equipment for an estimated cost of $97.3 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress.

The Government of Australia has requested to buy one hundred sixty-one (161) Lightweight Command Launch Units (LwCLU) that will be added to a previously implemented case whose value was under the congressional notification threshold. The original Foreign Military Sales (FMS) case, valued at $6.3 million ($0 in Major Defense Equipment (MDE)), included Javelin Life Cycle Support (LCS) and U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance. This notification is for one hundred sixty-one (161) Lightweight Command Launch Units (LwCLU). The following non-MDE items will also be included: Javelin LwCLU Basic Skills Trainer; missile simulation rounds and battery coolant unit; electronic technical manual and operator manuals; life cycle support; physical security inspection; spare parts; System Integration and Check Out; U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance, engineering, logistics, and personnel services; tool kits; training; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is $97.3 million.

Javelin anti-tank weapon system (photo: RTX)

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States. Australia is one of our most important allies in the Western Pacific. The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the Western Pacific. It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.

The proposed sale will enhance Australia’s capability to meet current and future threats by improving its advanced surface-fired munitions capabilities and increasing its capability to deter adversaries. This enhanced capability will protect Australia and local allied land forces and will significantly improve Australia’s contribution to coalition anti-armor capability. Australia will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractors will be the Javelin Joint Venture between RTX Corporation, located in Arlington, VA; and Lockheed Martin, located in Orlando, FL. At this time, the U.S. Government is not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with this potential sale. Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.

(DSCA)

Kongsberg Australia Secured NSM Component Contract for Export to Poland, Spain and Denmark

16 Agustus 2025

Kongsberg Australia secured missile launchers and command and control consoles contract to Poland, Spain and Denmark (photos: Kongsberg Australia)

Defence export success for South Australian missile manufacturer

Two major export deals worth a combined $80 million have been secured by Kongsberg Defence Australia, seeing missile launchers and command and control consoles made in South Australia soon to be exported to Europe.

Last year, the Albanese Government added Kongsberg Defence Australia to its Global Supply Chain Program, which has since opened the door to Australian defence industries. These export deals are made possible through Australia’s Naval Strike Missile procurement contract, which included an agreement for components to be manufactured in Australia.

As a result, South Australian companies are now contributing to exporting sophisticated defence hardware to Poland, Spain and Denmark. 

Through its parent company, Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace in Norway, the company will deliver Naval Strike Missile Coastal Defence System Command and Control Consoles to Poland. 

The $30 million contract is Kongsberg Defence Australia’s first export as part of the Commonwealth’s Global Supply Chain Program. The company also secured another $50 million order for Australian-made Naval Strike Missile Launcher Systems to be exported to Spain and Denmark.

The export deals mark a significant milestone for Australia’s sovereign guided weapons manufacturing program. 

Both the launcher systems and command and control consoles will be assembled by Kongsberg Defence Australia, and tested in their production and maintenance facility in Mawson Lakes, South Australia. The consoles and launchers will be manufactured using 100 per cent Australian made components and subsystems from companies based in Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney. 

The two projects are set to create 60 highly-skilled jobs at Kongsberg Defence Australia and across its local supply chain. 

The Naval Strike Missile is a modern anti-ship cruise missile designed to defeat highly capable enemy warships as well as land-based targets. The Naval Strike Missile is being installed on Navy’s Hobart class destroyers and Anzac class frigates with a successful first of class firing in July 2024 and Initial Operational Capability declaration in 2024.

These exports are part of the Australian Government’s investment in the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance enterprise, underpinned by a commitment in Defence’s Integrated Investment Program of $16 to $21 billion over the next decade.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:

“The Albanese Government’s efforts to support Australia’s sovereign defence manufacturing industry have reaped further benefits with these significant export deals. This is an exciting milestone for Australia’s sovereign defence manufacturing industry and a proud moment for Australian businesses to enter the global supply chain for missile manufacturing. 

“It will be the first time Naval Strike Missile launchers are manufactured outside of Europe and the United States, positioning Australia as a trusted source of supply to the Naval Strike Missile capability. 

“These deals underscore the Government’s commitment to working alongside our industry partners to strengthen Australia’s role in the global defence industry.”

Quotes attributable to South Australian Minister for Defence & Space Industries, the Hon Stephen Mullighan MP: 

“This is a fantastic result for South Australia’s defence sector, demonstrating our capabilities in delivering state-of-the-art technology to a global market.

“These significant contracts will not only boost the workforce at Kongsberg’s Mawson Lakes facility, but along the supply chain. 

“It’s successes like this that help cement South Australia’s reputation as the Defence State.”

Quotes attributable to Managing Director of Kongsberg Defence Australia, John Fry:

“These major export contracts are a huge milestone for Kongsberg Defence Australia. 

“Together with our Australian suppliers, we have demonstrated our determination and competitiveness to be able deliver to our parent company, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace for international customers, highlighting the capability, quality and reliability of our Australian team and supply chain.

“The export contracts under the Commonwealth’s Global Supply Chain Program are creating opportunities in the international market for our local suppliers, which is a fantastic outcome for Australian Defence industry.”

(Aus DoD)