Staff reporter

The E-7A, which had flown out from joint exercises in California, was displayed at Joint Base Andrews earlier this month between a US Air Force C-17 Globemaster III and C-5M Super Galaxy. Air crew were on hand to explain the aircraft and how it serves Australia’s defence mission.

Several aerospace professionals and companies are in the running for the awards, including three finalists in the AI Innovator – Aerospace Sector category.

Under the agreement, Babcock will deliver two new Airbus H145 D3 helicopters, equipped with advanced sensors, mission management systems, and long-range fuel tanks, enhancing surveillance and response capability in the strategically critical Torres Strait.

Assistant Minister for Defence Peter Khalil will oversee the new body alongside NSW Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe, with an initial focus on affected sites in NSW.

With more than 500 participants across both air forces, the exercise – now in its 15th year – will run until 19 September, building upon the defence partnership established between Australia and Thailand in 1992.

Chaired by Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy, the meeting reviewed progress on a remediation plan developed to address long-running delays and performance issues with the multibillion-dollar project. The summit follows the previous gathering in November 2024.