The Australian Government has confirmed the arrival of a second MC-55A Peregrine aircraft that will be integrated into the Australian Defense Forces.
The Minister of Defense Industry, Pat Conroy, confirmed today in a public statement the arrival of the intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and electronic warfare aircraft. A previous plane arrived in Australia in January this year.
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“Our second Peregrine has landed,” he said.
“From intelligence and surveillance to reconnaissance and electronic warfare… (This) sharpens the capabilities of our Royal Australian Air Force and strengthens our national security.
“It means that not only will we see more, but we will also know more.”
The MC-55A Peregrines will be based at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia, and will be operated by No. 10 Squadron.
Modeled 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 Defense operations.
“The introduction of the MC-55A Peregrine represents an important step forward in strengthening Australia’s ability to monitor and protect its strategic interests, including key maritime approaches,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles.
“This capability will seamlessly integrate with allied and partner systems, allowing the Air Force and ADF to share intelligence with security partners such as the United Kingdom and the United States; strengthening our collective security and enhancing regional stability.”
The total fleet of four MC-55As is considered 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 country’s sovereign network of electronic warfare and surveillance assets.
L3Harris has established a field service team in Australia to work alongside local industry partners to provide in-country support.
“The MC-55A Peregrine will be a force multiplier by delivering critical data for long-range targeting, regional deployments and effective mission planning,” said Jason Lambert, president of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance at L3Harris.
“The specialized aircraft will provide information superiority to the RAAF and serve as a strategic asset for future Australian Defense Force operations.”
Continuous software and hardware upgrades will help ensure the Peregrine remains ready to meet changing threats and future mission needs.
