The Hercules fleet is expected to remain in service into the 2030s, before being succeeded by a new generation of C-130 aircraft under Project AIR 7404.
Australia’s first MQ-4C Triton Remotely Piloted Aircraft System – “AUS 1” – to be operated by the Royal Australian Air Force was reportedly deployed for an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mission during the exercise earlier this year.
The subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, which sustains and maintains the Australian Defence Force’s MH-60R Seahawk helicopter fleet, is expected to provide another 100 positions of growth by 2028, including 60 roles in maintenance.
Senior strategy and logistics representatives from Australia, the US, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand attended the Five Eyes (FVEYS) A4 Collaboration Forum in the Northern Territory last month.
Australia’s P-8A fleet will receive upgraded antennas, sensors, and software designed to enhance processing power and communications, which will significantly boost the aircraft’s ability to detect, track, and engage advanced submarines.
The exercise, involving both air and ground crews, will be conducted across the greater Sydney, Wollongong and Goulburn regions. Soldiers and aviators will face complex, high-end simulated threat scenarios designed to test their readiness and co-ordination in realistic conditions.