Fourth and Final RAAAF MC-55A Peregrine Delivered

02 Oktober 2026

MC-55A Peregrine N542GD (photos: Rod B)

Seen arriving at Edinburgh this afternoon (Sept, 29) is MC-55A Peregrine N542GD. 

This is the fourth and final delivery of the type to the RAAF and it will eventually wear serial A51-002. 

The Peregrine passed through Honolulu before spending last weekend in Nadi, Fiji 

(DU Aviation News)

MQ-4C Triton and MC-55A Peregrine Achieved Initial Operational Capability

25 September 2026

A Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon aircraft representing No. 11, No. 12, and No. 292 Squadrons (centre), an MQ-4C Triton from No. 9 Squadron (left), and an MC-55A Peregrine from No. 10 Squadron representing the Air "ISR Family" of jets in No. 92 Wing at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia (photo: Aus DoD)

Major milestones for Australia's air intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities

The Albanese Government is delivering a major uplift to Australia’s air intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, with three key Royal Australian Air Force platforms reaching significant milestones within six months.

Together, these milestones represent a significant strengthening of the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) ability to monitor and understand activity across Australia’s region and respond to emerging threats.

Consistent with the 2026 National Defence Strategy, these investments are delivering a complementary mix of crewed and uncrewed aircraft able to provide persistent surveillance, intelligence collection, maritime patrol and electronic warfare effects across Australia’s primary area of military interest.

A Royal Australian Air Force MQ-4C Triton taxies at RAAF Base Tindal (photo: Aus DoD)

MQ-4C Triton: Initial Operational Capability

The MQ-4C Triton has achieved Initial Operational Capability (IOC), following extensive operational testing and evaluation.

Operating from RAAF Bases Tindal and Edinburgh and supported by Northrop Grumman Australia, the MQ-4C Triton fleet is now providing a powerful new contribution to Australia’s long-range surveillance capability.

With the MQ-4C Triton now at IOC, Air Force has significantly strengthened its ability to deliver persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance effects across Australia’s primary area of military interest. 

The MQ-4C Triton is based at RAAF Base Tindal and operated by Air Force’s Number 9 Squadron, located at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia.

A Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon Aircraft (A47-008) at Clark Air Base, Philippines during a Maritime Domain Awareness Activity (photo: Aus DoD)

P-8A Poseidon: Completion of the fleet, arrival of the first enhanced aircraft and commencement of the first domestic modification of the aircraft

The 14th and final P-8A Poseidon aircraft arrived in Australia in May, completing delivery of the P-8A Poseidon fleet and strengthening the ADF’s maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface warfare capabilities. 

The first of two P-8A Poseidon aircraft upgraded with Increment 3 Block 2 enhancements has also arrived in Australia, providing enhanced operational capability while maintaining interoperability with the United States Navy.

The remaining 12 P-8A Poseidon fleet will undergo these upgrades in Australia, supported by Boeing Defence Australia and local industry partners at the recently opened $200 million Deep Maintenance and Modification Facility at RAAF Base Edinburgh.

This work will build sovereign capacity to maintain and upgrade this critical capability in Australia while creating further opportunities for Australian defence industry.

Australia operates 14 P-8A Poseidon aircraft, based at RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia, and operated by Numbers 11, 12 and 292 Squadrons.

The third Royal Australian Air Force MC-55A Peregrine lands for the first time at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia (photo: Aus DoD)

MC-55A Peregrine: Initial Operational Capability and upcoming arrival of the fourth and final aircraft 

The MC-55A Peregrine has achieved IOC, following extensive operational testing and evaluation.

The first three MC-55A Peregrine aircraft have now been delivered, with the fourth and final aircraft due to arrive later this year.

This will further expand Air Force’s ability to deliver integrated intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and electronic warfare effects in support of Defence operations.

The MC-55A Peregrine is based at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia and operated by Air Force’s Number 10 Squadron.

These milestones also reinforce South Australia’s growing importance to Australia’s national defence.

RAAF Base Edinburgh is at the centre of Australia’s air intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance enterprise, supporting advanced Defence capabilities, highly skilled jobs and an increasingly sophisticated sovereign defence industry.

South Australia’s defence industry generated a record $2 billion in economic activity last financial year.

Quotes attributable to the Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, the Hon Richard Marles MP:

“These significant air intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance milestones demonstrate the Albanese Government’s commitment to our air intelligence, surveillance end reconnaissance.

“South Australia is central to this effort. RAAF Base Edinburgh is becoming one of the most important hubs for advanced Defence capability in the country, supporting our national security and highly skilled Australian jobs.

“The Albanese Government is investing approximately $5.5 billion over the decade to continue to enhance the ADF’s air intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and maritime patrol and response capabilities that will create additional opportunities for Australian industry well into the future.”

Quotes attributable to the Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell DSC, CSC, OAM:

“Our people have been at the heart of delivering the air intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capability for Australia, demonstrating exceptional skill, professionalism and dedication in bringing these complex systems into service.

“I congratulate our whole Air Domain team, from across industry, the public service and Air Force for their exceptional work to deliver these cutting edge capabilities for Australia. 

“The achievements announced today mark a significant step forward in Air Force capability, delivering persistent, long-range maritime surveillance that strengthens our ability to protect Australia’s interests and deliver highly effective air power as part of the integrated, focused force.”

(Aus DoD)

Australia Memulai Operasi Pesawat MC-55A Peregrine

01 Juli 2026

Operasi pesawat MC-55a Peregrine ke utara (photos: Aus DoD)

Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) telah melakukan operasi pertamanya dari Australia utara dengan MC-55A Peregrine L3Harris Technologies yang baru diperoleh.

Departemen Pertahanan Australia (DoD) mengatakan pada 26 Juni bahwa sebuah MC-55A yang ditugaskan ke Skuadron No. 10 dikerahkan ke Pangkalan RAAF Darwin pada awal Juni untuk melakukan penerbangan uji dan evaluasi operasional (OT&E).

“Penerbangan OT&E memberikan pengujian awal angkatan udara terhadap pesawat dan sistem pendukung, dan berkontribusi pada gambaran real-time Angkatan Pertahanan Australia tentang wilayah tersebut, termasuk pendekatan maritim Australia,” kata DoD.

Penerbangan tersebut "mirip dengan penerbangan pengawasan maritim yang dilakukan oleh [Boeing] P-8A Poseidon" dalam layanan RAAF, tambah Departemen Pertahanan.

Peregrine didasarkan pada jet bisnis Gulfstream G550 yang dimodifikasi. Platform dasar memiliki jangkauan sekitar 6.750 mil laut, dan ketinggian terbang maksimum 51.000 kaki.

Direktur Jenderal Operasi Komando Udara, Komodor Udara Peter Robinson, mengatakan MC-55A melengkapi kemampuan RAAF yang ada, termasuk P-8A Poseidon dan sistem pesawat tanpa awak (RPAS) Northrop MQ-4C Triton dengan daya tahan lama di ketinggian tinggi (HALE).

Hal ini memungkinkan Departemen Pertahanan "untuk mempertahankan kesadaran situasional yang berkelanjutan di area kepentingan militer utama kami," kata ACM Robinson.

Australia menerima Peregrine pertama dari empat yang dipesan pada Januari 2026 dan yang kedua pada Maret. Pada 12 Juni, RAAF mengumumkan kedatangan pesawat ketiga di Pangkalan RAAF Edinburgh, pangkalan utama armada tersebut. Foto-foto yang dirilis oleh Departemen Pertahanan mengidentifikasi pesawat ketiga sebagai pesawat dengan registrasi sipil AS N540GA.

(Jane's)

Third MC-55A Peregrine ISREW Arrived in AUstralia

15 Juni 2026

Arrival of the third MC-55A Peregrine (photos: Aus DoD)

The third Royal Australian Air Force MC-55A Peregrine lands for the first time at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia.

The MC-55A Peregrine is a first-of-type, airborne intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and electronic warfare (ISREW) aircraft for the Australian Defence Force (ADF). 

The first MC-55A arrived in Australia in January 2026. Modelled on the Gulfstream G550 airframe and extensively modified by L3Harris Technologies, the MC-55A is a long-range, persistent ISREW platform able to deliver multi-intelligence effects. 

The MC-55A Peregrine will be operated by RAAF’s Number 10 Squadron and will be based at RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia. 

Government approved the purchase of four MC-55A aircraft at an allocated cost of $2.399 billion.

(Aus DoD)

GA-ASI Completes First Flight of MQ-9B with AEW Pods

03 Juni 2026

MQ-9B with Airborne Early Warning (AEW) pods (photo: GA-ASI)

SAN DIEGO – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) flew its MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft for the first time with Airborne Early Warning (AEW) pods. The much-anticipated AEW capability is being provided through a partnership with Saab. Once the AEW sensor, named LoyalEye, is made available to MQ-9B operators and new customers, it will deliver persistent and cost-effective air surveillance capabilities in regions where it is currently unavailable.  

GA-ASI conducted a validation flight of MQ-9B using AEW radar pods on May 19 from GA-ASI’s Desert Horizon flight operations facility in Southern California using a company-owned aircraft. The flight signaled the first step in a development process that is expected to take several months and culminate with a full-capability demonstration later this year.

GA-ASI and Saab announced their partnership last year with the intention of bringing AEW capability to the MQ-9B platform.

Rendering of the AEW-configured MQ-9B (image: GA-ASI)

MQ-9B models include the SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian®, the United Kingdom’s MQ-9B variant known as Protector, and the new MQ-9B STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) configuration currently in development for naval aircraft carriers.

“AEW for MQ-9B will offer critical aloft sensing to defend against tactical air munitions, guided missiles, drones, fighter and bomber aircraft, and other threats. Operational availability for a medium-altitude, long-endurance UAS is the highest of any military aircraft, and as an unmanned platform, its aircrews are not put into harm’s way,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander.

A rendering of the AEW&C version of the MQ-9B (image: Saab)

“This partnership integrates MQ-9B with LoyalEye, equipping operators with vital information for critical decision-making. LoyalEye extends the capabilities of manned systems, and it offers persistent surveillance and greater operational flexibility. This enhances situational awareness and boosts mission success,” said Carl-Johan Bergholm, Senior Vice President and Head of Business Area Surveillance at Saab.

GA-ASI and Saab’s AEW offering will span a wide range of applications, including early detection and warning, long-range detection and tracking, and simultaneous target tracking and flexible system integration — all over line-of-sight and SATCOM connectivity.

(GA ASI)

The 14th P-8A Poseidon Arrived in Australia

28 Mei 2026

The 14th P-8A Poseidon is last Poseidon aircraft for RAAF (photos: Aus DoD)

The 14th Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon from No. 11 Squadron arrives at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia.

The 14th Air Force P-8A Poseidon gets a water arch salute from the aviation firefighters on arrival at RAAF Base Edinburgh, marking the fleet complete.

Australia has received delivery of its 14th aircraft in the P‑8A Poseidon fleet, based at RAAF Base Edinburgh and operated by No. 11, 12 and 292 Squadrons. 

The aircraft have demonstrated strong performance across operations and exercises since first entering service. 

Under AIR7000, approved upgrades will further enhance the fleet’s anti‑submarine warfare, maritime strike and intelligence capabilities, while supporting Australian industry through significant local involvement and more than $1 billion in investment.

(Aus DoD)

Statement by the Defense Ministers of Japan and the Philippines on the Further Promotion of Defense Equipment and Technology Cooperation

07 Mei 2026

JMSDF Beechcraft TC-90 King Air (photo: Aria H Kanzaki)

Minister of Defense of Japan Koizumi Shinjiro explained Japan’s recent revision of the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology as well as its Implementation Guidelines (hereinafter referred to as “the Three Principles”), and emphasized Japan’s clear intention to further expand and deepen substantive cooperation and partnership with the Philippines in order to realize its objective. In this regard, he highlighted that Japan has consistently contributed to peace and stability in the region and the international community, and that the revised defense equipment transfer framework constitutes one such continued effort, aimed at strengthening regional peace and stability through enhancing the deterrence and response capabilities of partner countries.

Secretary of National Defense of the Republic of the Philippines Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. reaffirmed his support for Japan’s long-standing contributions to peace and stability in the region and the international community, and welcomed Japan’s recent revision of the Three Principles as a step that will further strengthen such contributions. He also expressed his expectation that, building on this revision, defense cooperation and partnership between the two countries would be further enhanced.

Taking into account the revised Three Principles, the two Ministers expressed their commitment to implementing necessary cooperation to ensure the security of both countries and the peace and stability of the region. They shared their determination to further expand and deepen bilateral defense partnership in an integrated and comprehensive manner, including through pursuing an institutional framework for information sharing.

Abukuma-class destroyer escort (photo: JMSDF)

TC-90 aircraft and Abukuma-class destroyers

As part of the efforts referred to in paragraph 3 above, taking into account the request from the Philippines, the two Ministers decided to discuss the transfer of defense equipment, including TC‑90 aircraft and Abukuma‑class destroyers, along the following lines:

1.To identify defense equipment that contributes to the deepening of bilateral defense partnership, and, under the revised Three Principles, to conduct discussions aimed at realizing comprehensive equipment cooperation as part of Japan–Philippines defense cooperation. Such discussions will encompass not only the transfer of the equipment itself, but also education and training related to the equipment for the Philippine Navy, support in the field of maintenance and sustainment to ensure continued operation, operational coordination between the respective services, information sharing, and arrangements for the appropriate management of transferred equipment.

2.To this end, under the leadership of the two Ministers, to establish a working group comprising the policy, operational, and equipment divisions of the defense authorities of both countries.

The two Ministers reaffirmed their intention for Japan and the Philippines, as strategic partners, to strengthen cooperation between their defense authorities, work closely with the United States and other partners, and contribute to the realization of peace and stability in the Indo‑Pacific region.

(Japan MoD)

SCYTALYS Collaboration with PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) for the Completion of an Advanced Tactical Mission System on N219 and CN235 Aircraft

10 April 2026

Signing of MoU between SCYTALYS and PTDI (photo: PTDI)

Athens -- A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between SCYTALYS (a member of EFA GROUP) and PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI), marking an important strategic step to strengthen the presence of the two companies in the Maritime Operations Aircraft market. The collaboration concerns the integration of SCYTALYS systems into the maritime surveillance version of PTDI 's N 219 and CN 235 aircraft .

The agreement includes the integration of the Greek Mission Integration and Management System Airborne (MIMS Airborne) on PTDI ’s N 219 and CN 235 aircraft , enhancing the maritime surveillance and patrol capabilities of the two aircraft and opening up new prospects in the Asia-Pacific market. The MoU was signed by Mr. Moh Arif Faisal , PTDI ’s Director of Commercial, Technology & Development , and Mr. Dimitris Karantzavelos , President of SCYTALYS , at the Singapore Airshow 2026.

MIMS Airborne is an advanced modular C2 system, based on an open interface architecture. It integrates and manages in real time critical sensors and subsystems, such as radar, EO/IR, ESM/ELINT, air navigation and tactical/strategic communications, producing a comprehensive Common Operational Picture (COP). MIMS Airborne transforms N219 and CN235 into fully network-centric C4ISR nodes, significantly enhancing their operational effectiveness.

As Moh Arif Faisal, PTDI ’s Director of Commercial, Technology & Development, said : “This collaboration will enhance the operational capabilities of the N219 and CN235 aircraft and open up new opportunities for PTDI’s leading products, through competitive special mission solutions that meet the operational requirements of users.”

As stated by  Dimitris Karantzavelos, President of SCYTALYS : “The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with PTDI is an important step to further strengthen SCYTALYS’ international presence and promote innovative mission solutions. The integration of the MIMS Airborne system on the N219 and CN235 aircraft confirms our technological superiority and our ability to provide reliable, interoperable and customized special mission solutions. The collaboration with PTDI opens new prospects for SCYTALYS’ expansion in the Asia-Pacific market and we look forward to continuing this dynamic and promising collaboration.”

(Scytalys)

Pesawat Patroli Maritim Jarak Jauh ATR 72-600 MPA Kedua Tiba di Filipina

01 April 2026

Pesawat bernomor MSN 1713 merupakan pesawat patroli maritim ATR 72-600MPA kedua AU Filipina yang telah mendarat di Clark AIr Base, Manila (photo: Turin Spotter)

Pesawat patroli maritim ATR 72-600MPA kedua untuk Angkatan Udara Filipina telah tiba 25 Maret 2026 lalu di Manila. Pengiriman dilakukan oleh perusahaan logistik global Chapman Freeborn berhasil menyelesaikan operasi pengiriman multi-perhentian yang kompleks.

Pesawat tersebut yang diproduksi oleh Leonardo S.p.A. di Italia, merupakan bagian dari program modernisasi militer negara yang sedang berlangsung yang bertujuan untuk memperkuat kemampuan pengawasan udara.

Interior pesawat ATR-72 600 MPA (photo: Turdef)

Transfer tersebut melibatkan pemberhentian internasional terkoordinasi di Mesir, Oman, Sri Lanka, dan Thailand, mengatasi tantangan logistik seperti penundaan cuaca dan persyaratan izin sebelum mencapai Filipina.

Dilengkapi dengan sistem intelijen, pengawasan, dan pengintaian canggih, ATR 72-600MPA meningkatkan kesadaran domain maritim jarak jauh negara dan mendukung inisiatif kerja sama pertahanan yang lebih luas.

(MAP)

Penampakan Pertama P-8A Poseidon Skuadron 12 Australia

24 Maret 2026

Pesawat P-8A Poseidon A47-012 Skuadron 12 (photos: Nathan Rundle)

Pada Oktober 2025 Angkatan Udara Australia mengaktifkan kembali Skuadron 12 (12 Squadron) yang mengoperasikan pesawat P-8A Poseidon. Beroperasi bersama Skuadron 11, Skuadron 12 akan berkontribusi pada kemampuan perang anti-kapal selam, serangan maritim, dan intelijen maritim, serta pengawasan, pengintaian, dan kemampuan responsif.

Pesawat pertama yang dioperasikan oleh Skuadron 12 adalah P-8A Poseidon ke-13 dikirim oleh Boeing pada bulan Oktober 2025, dengan pesawat ke-14 atau pesawat terakhir pesanan Australia akan dikirim sebelum tahun 2026 berakhir. Kedua skuadron P-8A Poseidon juga akan bekerja sama dengan MQ-4C Triton untuk menyediakan Australia dengan salah satu kemampuan patroli dan pengawasan maritim tercanggih di dunia.

Pada 19 Maret 2026 lalu, Nathan Rundle seorang fotografer penerbangan telah mengambil gambar pertama pesawat P-8A Poseidon Skuadron 12 RAAF dengan nomor A47-012 berhasil diambil fotonya saat terbang rendah memutar di sore hari lengkap dengan gambar logo skuadron dan nomor seri pesawat.  Foto-foto tersebut termuat dalam laman ADF Serials Military Aircraft Group.

Second MC-55A Peregrine Arrived in Australia

17 Februari 2026

Second MC-55A Peregrine ISREW aircraft arrived at RAAF Base Edinburgh (photos: Rod B)

The second MC-55A Peregrine for the RAAF, N567G, arrived at Edinburgh on March 12, 2026. 

The Peregrine was delivered via the same routing as the first (via Hickam & Andersen AFB) and utilising the same callsign (Same55). 

On arrival the aircraft performed an initial over the base before landing following the ensuing circuit.

(Down under Aviation)

Government Seeks Parliamentary Approval to Transfer Garibaldi Ship to Indonesia, New Orders for the National Industry on the Horizon

01 Maret 2026

ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi aircraft carrier (photo: Reuters) 

The aircraft carrier Garibaldi will be transferred free of charge to the Navy of the Republic of Indonesia within the year. The government has presented the proposal developed by the Defense General Staff for the transfer of what was the Navy's flagship for two decades, before the arrival of the Cavour, which has been out of service since 2024 and is currently in Taranto awaiting a future that now seems clear. 

It will continue to sail under the flag of the Southeast Asian nation, whose navy has already completed the purchase of two multipurpose offshore patrol vessels Pattugliatore Polivalente d'Altura (PPA) in recent years, the last of which left La Spezia a few weeks ago. This proposal is the subject of an interministerial decree between the Defense and Foreign Affairs Committees that will soon be submitted for approval to the Defense Committees of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate.

PPA class Multi Purpose Combat Ship (MPCS) (photo: Dante Flore)

The free transfer

The ship, now obsolete by national standards, is currently valued at €54 million—would allow the Navy to save on maintenance costs, estimated at €5 million in 2025, including electricity, surveillance, security, and integrity maintenance.

The armed forces also want to avoid the need to dispose of a 180-meter-long, 14,000-ton vessel. This operation "is estimated to last no less than 24 months, with total costs estimated at approximately €18.7 million," according to the dossier from the logistics and infrastructure department of the General Staff.

M346 training and light combat aircraft (photo: Alamy)

"These charges could also be added to the administration's costs if the demolition were to be carried out for a fee, if—as has already been observed in previous experiences—no economic operator submitted valid offers for the acquisition of the hull slated for demolition," the document continues. This is an aspect that has already been addressed in the attempt to dispose of the wrecks in the San Vito and Varicella area of ​​the La Spezia naval base to free up space for the Basi Blu project.

New orders are also on the horizon

Indonesia is expected to purchase: 

-six DGK-class submarines manufactured by Drass for €480 million over the next few years, 

-24 Leonardo M346 trainer aircraft for approximately €600 million, and 

-three ATR72 patrol aircraft for €450 million.

DGK-class midget submarine (image: Drass)

Furthermore, the Garibaldi is expected to undergo a series of renovations before being transferred to Asia, involving Fincantieri and its Italian shipyards, although no further details are currently available. The vessel would be "made available without offensive operational capabilities as its weapons systems are not operational."

"The Indonesian government has not yet allocated a budget for the ship's retrofitting," General Rico Ricardo Sirait, head of the Indonesian Ministry of Defense's information office , stated recently.

ATR-72 MPA long range maritime patrol (photo: DepositPhotos)

The work is expected to involve the propulsion system, avionics, safety certification, and integration of sensors and weapons systems "so that it can be used in accordance with the Indonesian Navy's needs." Upon completion of the operation, the Garibaldi is expected to be reborn as a helicopter and drone carrier. 

The Italian government plans to finalize the transfer by December 2026, while Indonesia hopes to have it in Jakarta by October 5, the anniversary of the founding of the armed forces, which will be celebrated with a parade.

(Citta Della Spezia)

Singapore to Acquire Three Gulfstream G550-Maritime Surveillance Aircraft

28 Februari 2026

Gulfstream G550-Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (image: Sing Mindef)

The SAF will acquire three Gulfstream G550-Maritime Surveillance Aircraft; and reposition its Cyber Defence Test and Evaluation Centre as an Experimentation Centre.

This is part of a 4-prong approach highlighted by Minister for Defence Mr Chan Chun Sing – Capabilities for the SAF to be a credible armed force, Commitment to Singapore’s defence, Contributions from the wider community and diversified portfolio of Connections – for MINDEF and the SAF to continue to defend Singapore amid wide-ranging challenges.

On the first, he said that robust conventional capabilities remain core to a strong and credible deterrence. “We must continue to modernise and upgrade them to keep pace with the threats around us,” said Mr Chan.

The Republic of Singapore Air Force will acquire three Gulfstream G550-Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (MSA) to provide better early warning of maritime threats.

Together with the Boeing P-8A Maritime Patrol Aircraft, the G550-MSA will support the SAF’s mission in safeguarding Singapore’s Sea Lines of Communication as part of Singapore’s maritime security surveillance network.

Victory class Multi-Role Combat Vessel (MRCV) (photo: Sing Mindef)

The Republic of Singapore Navy’s 2nd Multi-Role Combat Vessel (MRCV) is on track to be launched in the 3rd quarter of 2026.

Equipped with the combat capability of a modern frigate, it will also serve as a “mothership” for unmanned systems.

Autonomous drone swarms were one of the experimental technologies tested at Exercise Forging Sabre 2023 (photo: Sing Mindef)

The SAF will also develop a “high-low” mix of capabilities, complementing high-end conventional systems with cheap, dual-use systems in the commercial market.

One example is the use of low-cost drones for maritime security. “This builds agility in our processes so that we can rapidly adapt to the changing battlefield and technological landscape,” said Mr Chan during his budget speech.

DIS personnel from CyTEC providing remote support for the Critical Infrastructure Defence Exercise (CIDeX) last November (photo: Sing Mindef)

The Digital and Intelligence Service will reposition its Cyber Defence Test and Evaluation Centre as an Experimentation Centre (CyTEC), allowing it to experiment and innovate in cyber training practices.

The upgraded CyTEC will be equipped with cutting edge technologies to facilitate innovation and strengthen our cybersecurity.

(Sing Mindef)

New Zealand Eksplorasi P-8A Poseidon Sebagai Platform Serang Maritim

08 Februari 2026

New Zealand akan uji tembak rudal Harpoon dari armada P-8A Poseidon miliknya pada pertengahan 2026 (photo: Florida Times Union)

SINGAPURA - New Zealand Defense Force (NZDF) telah membentuk Proyek "Serangan yang ditingkatkan" serta Proyek "Intelijen, pengawasan, dan pengintaian (ISR) berkelanjutan untuk meneliti senjata udara-ke-permukaan masa depan, kemampuan penargetan, dan opsi penginderaan".

Langkah ini menyusul rilis Rencana Kemampuan Pertahanan/Defense Capability Plan (DCP) New Zealand pada Agustus lalu. DCP mengidentifikasi persyaratan awal untuk kemampuan serangan, tanpa awak, dan terkait ruang angkasa karena Wellington berupaya membangun kembali elemen kekuatan tempur yang hilang lebih dari dua dekade lalu.

Peluncuran rudal Harpoon dari P-8A Poseidon

Kepala Angkatan Udara Kerajaan Selandia Baru (RNZAF), Marsekal Madya Darryn Webb, mengatakan kepada Aviation Week pada 4 Februari di Singapore Airshow bahwa Boeing P-8A Poseidon akan berfungsi sebagai platform integrasi logis untuk kemampuan serangan dan ISR. Angkatan udara bekerja sama dengan rekan-rekan Australia dan AS untuk menjadikan pesawat tersebut mampu membawa senjata.

RNZAF P-8A Poseidon (photo: RNZAF)

Webb mengungkapkan bahwa RNZAF bertujuan untuk melakukan peluncuran rudal anti-kapal Harpoon pertama dari Poseidon pada pertengahan tahun 2026. Selandia Baru sebagian besar melepaskan peran serangan sayap tetapnya setelah pensiunnya pesawat tempur A-4K Skyhawk pada awal tahun 2000-an.

“Itu adalah langkah baik pertama, dan kemudian kami akan mengeksplorasi peluang untuk apa yang mungkin sesuai dengan kebutuhan kami,” kata Webb.

Platform ISR maritim tak berawak 

Secara paralel, proyek ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) yang berkelanjutan sedang menilai campuran sistem pesawat tanpa awak dan solusi berbasis ruang angkasa potensial untuk memantau wilayah maritim Selandia Baru yang luas, yang mencakup area yang setara dengan sekitar seperduabelas permukaan laut Bumi.

Webb menambahkan bahwa RNZAF sedang membangun keahlian terkait ruang angkasa, dimulai dengan kesadaran domain ruang angkasa dan berpotensi berkembang ke stasiun bumi uplink satelit untuk mendukung kebutuhan nasional dan mitra.

Upaya ini akan dipandu oleh DCP (Distance Competence Project), yang akan diperbarui dalam siklus dua tahun.

Webb mengatakan bahwa RNZAF saat ini tidak mengantisipasi investasi dalam kemampuan tempur udara berawak konvensional, tetapi mengisyaratkan opsi tanpa awak di masa depan.

“Itu tidak ada dalam agenda Rencana Kemampuan Pertahanan saat ini, tetapi setiap tahun kita melihat peningkatan dalam teknologi sistem tanpa awak dan kemampuan untuk mengangkat kemampuan tersebut, termasuk pengembangan oleh Australia dan negara lain,” katanya, menambahkan bahwa sistem tersebut secara hipotetis dapat diintegrasikan dengan armada Poseidon RNZAF.

(Aviation Week)

PT DI Tanda-tangani 2 Kesepakatan untuk Spesial Mission Aircraft

04 Februari 2026

Penanda-tanganan MoU PT DI dengan RSG Aerodesign untuk special mission pada pesawat CN-235, N-219, dan Bell 412 EPX (photo: PT DI)

PTDI Perluas Kolaborasi Special Mission Aircraft Melalui MoU Dengan RSG Aerodesign

Singapura  - PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) menandatangani Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) dengan RSG Aerodesign, Perusahaan asal Amerika Serikat, sebagai upaya perluasan kolaborasi dalam penyediaan pesawat terbang dan helikopter special mission. MoU tersebut ditandatangani oleh Direktur Niaga, Teknologi & Pengembangan PTDI, Moh Arif Faisal dan Director of Business Development, Tom King, disaksikan oleh Direktur Utama PTDI, Gita Amperiawan, serta Dewan Komisaris PTDI, Bonar Halomoan Hutagaol dan Yusron Ihza, pada gelaran Singapore Airshow 2026 hari pertama di booth PTDI A-L31. 

RSG Aerodesign merupakan mitra strategis PTDI yang telah memiliki rekam jejak kerja sama panjang, khususnya dalam pengembangan dan integrasi sistem misi helikopter untuk kebutuhan pertahanan. Melalui MoU ini, kedua Perusahaan sepakat untuk menjajaki dan mengembangkan peluang penyediaan pesawat terbang dan helikopter special mission bagi Angkatan Bersenjata dan instansi Pemerintah di Indonesia, serta sejumlah potensi pasar di kawasan ASEAN, yang dilengkapi dengan sistem misi terintegrasi, special mission kits, serta layanan teknis dan instalasi untuk berbagai peran khusus, termasuk namun tidak terbatas pada Search and Rescue (SAR), Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC), VVIP, Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW), Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), dan sebagainya. 

Direktur Niaga, Teknologi & Pengembangan PTDI, Moh Arif Faisal, menyampaikan bahwa kerja sama ini mencerminkan komitmen PTDI dalam memperkuat kapabilitas pengembangan dan modifikasi pesawat dan helikopter special mission, sekaligus meningkatkan daya saing produk dan membuka peluang akses ke potensi pasar baru. (PT DI)

Penanda-tanganan MoU PT DI dengan Scytays untuk pengembangan special mission pada pesawat CN-235 dan N-219 (photo: PT DI)

PTDI Perkuat Kapabilitas Special Mission N219 dan CN235 Dengan Scytalys

Singapura (03/02) — PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) menandatangani Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) dengan Scytalys-Perusahaan asal Yunani, sebagai langkah strategis dalam memperkuat penetrasi pasar bersama dan integrasi mission system pada pesawat N219 dan CN235. MoU ini ditandatangani oleh Direktur Niaga, Teknologi & Pengembangan PTDI, Moh Arif Faisal dan Director Scytalys, Dimitris Karantzavelos, disaksikan oleh Direktur Utama PTDI, Gita Amperiawan, serta Dewan Komisaris PTDI, Bonar Halomoan Hutagaol dan Yusron Ihza, pada gelaran Singapore Airshow 2026 hari pertama di booth PTDI A-L31. 

Kesepakatan ini merupakan perluasan kemitraan strategis PTDI dan Scytalys dalam pengembangan solusi pesawat special mission, termasuk integrasi Mission Integration and Management System (MIMS) dan sistem Command and Control (C2) pada pesawat produksi PTDI untuk mendukung misi pengawasan dan patroli maritim, dengan target pasar Asia Pasifik.

“Kolaborasi ini akan memperkuat kapabilitas operasional pesawat N219 dan CN235, yang tentunya juga akan membuka peluang pasar baru bagi pesawat unggulan PTDI melalui solusi special mission yang kompetitif dan sesuai kebutuhan operasional pengguna,” kata Moh Arif Faisal. (PT DI)

First Four of MC-55A Peregrine ISREW Strengthening Australia's Defence

25 Januari 2026

A Royal Australian Air Force MC-55A Peregrine from No. 10 Squadron arrives at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia (photo: Aus DoD)

MC-55A Peregrine: a first-of-type capability strengthening Australia's Defence

The first of four MC-55A Peregrine – Australia’s inaugural airborne Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Electronic Warfare (ISREW) aircraft – has arrived, marking a major milestone in strengthening the nation’s sovereign defence capability.

The Albanese Government is pleased to announce the first MC-55A arrived at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia, late last week. Modelled on the Gulfstream G550 airframe and extensively enhanced by L3Harris Technologies, the MC-55A is a long-range, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft designed to deliver multiple sources of intelligence in support of Defence operations.

This advanced capability reinforces Australia’s national defence posture and contributes to deterrence. Integrated within a focused and agile force, the MC-55A ensures the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) is ready to detect, disrupt, deter, and if necessary defeat threats – underpinning the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) commitment to readiness and resilience.

The MC-55A will be a key component of Australia’s broader ISR enterprise, complementing platforms such as the P-8A Poseidon and MQ-4C Triton, and forming a critical link in the nation’s sovereign network of surveillance and electronic warfare assets.

Operated by Number 10 Squadron, the MC-55A Peregrine will be based at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia.

Quotes attributable to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, the Hon. Richard Marles MP:

“The introduction of the MC-55A Peregrine represents a significant step forward in strengthening Australia’s ability to monitor and protect its strategic interests, including key maritime approaches.

“This capability will integrate seamlessly with allied and partner systems, enabling the Air Force and ADF to share intelligence with security partners like the United Kingdom and United States – reinforcing our collective security and enhancing regional stability.”

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

“This investment strengthens Australia’s sovereign intelligence, surveillance, and electronic warfare capability and ensures our Defence Force is prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.”

Quotes attributable the Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell DSC, CSC, OAM: 

“The introduction of the MC-55A to Air Force’s fleet will ensure we have a critical enabler for advanced ADF capabilities and, as identified in the 2024 Integrated Investment Program, provide important intelligence information to support ADF missions.  

“The MC-55A Peregrine is more than an aircraft—it is a strategic capability that reinforces our ability to protect national interests in an increasingly complex security environment.”

(Aus DoD)