Australia invests extra A$1.4 billion in MQ-28A Ghost Bat after successful missile fire test
The MQ-28A Ghost Bat missile firing tests took place at the Woomera Range Complex. (Photo: Boeing Defence Australia)
Australia has said it will invest A$1.4 billion (US$930 million) with Boeing Defence Australia to transition the MQ-28A Ghost Bat into a “fully operational war-fighting asset” for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
The investment includes contracts for six Block 2 MQ-28A Ghost Bat aircraft, as well as funding for the development of a Block 3 prototype.
The contract decision follows Boeing successfully completing its first missile fire test using an AIM-120 AMRAAM missile from the MQ-28A against a drone target.
According to Boeing, the mission involved teaming between the MQ-28A, E-7A and the F/A-18F Super Hornet, with the E-7A
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop
The biannual Farnborough International Airshow 2026 was the backdrop in July for scores of deals, partnerships and announcements, including developments in the multinational next-generation Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s $486 million trainer aircraft requirement.
-
FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne
Bell Flight’s modular open-systems approach for the US Army’s MV-75 Cheyenne could open doors for international allies and suppliers once locked out by closed rotorcraft architectures.
-
Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)
BAE Systems’ all-digital EW delivers 360-degree threat awareness in contested environments, boosts survivability, and cuts lifecycle costs.
-
US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist
The USAF is looking for commercial avionics solutions to improve the T-38 Talon’s reliability, readiness and flight safety as continued T-7A Red Hawk delays increase the likelihood that the legacy trainer will remain in service longer than planned.