Australia announces $1.4bn for MQ-28A Ghost Bat program after air-to-air missile test

Operating as a loyal wingman to a Royal Australian Air Force E-7A Wedgetail and an F/A-18F Super Hornet, the MQ-28A Ghost Bat destroyed the airborne target during trials at the Woomera Test Range in South Australia.

“Australia is at the forefront of efforts to develop and field autonomous Collaborative Combat Aircraft to provide asymmetric advantage and enhanced fighting depth for existing crewed platforms,” Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said.

“This landmark demonstration proves the MQ-28A Ghost Bat is a world-leading Collaborative Combat Aircraft made and designed in Australia.

“The successful weapons demonstration underlines its growing potential to deliver an operational capability for the Royal Australian Air Force.”

This announcement of additional funding, coupled with the successful live-fire test, reinforces Australia’s position at the forefront of CCA technology globally. The latest investment includes new contracts with Boeing Defence Australia for six operational Block 2 MQ-28A aircraft and the development of an enhanced Block 3 prototype.

The delivery of these additional Ghost Bats will lay the foundation for an operational Air Combat Platform capability within the Royal Australian Air Force. The Albanese government is investing more than $10 billion in drones over the next decade, including at least $4.3 billion in uncrewed aerial systems.

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Investment in uncrewed and autonomous systems is a key priority of the 2024 National Defence Strategy. Collaborative Combat Aircraft, like the MQ-28A Ghost Bat, deliver asymmetric surveillance and air combat capabilities, increasing the lethality and survivability of existing crewed platforms.

The Ghost Bat program supports more than 440 high-skilled jobs nationwide, including roles at Boeing Defence Australia and across more than 200 Australian suppliers – 70 per cent of program expenditure is directed to Australian industry.

“With Ghost Bat, the future of Collaborative Air Combat is right here, right now. Today’s announcement highlights that Australia is leading the world in the development of Collaborative Combat Aircraft,” Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said.

“The Ghost Bat transforms a single fighter jet into a formidable team – capable not only of surveillance but also of engaging adversaries. This delivers a vital layer of protection for our aviators, who remain our most valuable asset.

“The MQ-28A program is also building a stronger sovereign defence industry and increasing Australia’s resilience with over 70 per cent of this investment remaining on our shores, providing high-tech, high-paying jobs for Australians.”