Upgradable and adaptable F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter aircraft are expected to ‘remain relevant for a very long time’, according to recent comments from retired US F/A-18 instructor pilot Trevor ‘Gonky’ Hartsock.
Royal Australian Air Force and Royal Australian Navy personnel, supported by United States Air Force 53rd Wing and United States Navy NAWCWD specialists, conducted the advanced target trials from 7 June to 2 July this year.
The Airshow will take place over the weekend of 27 and 28 September 2025 with gates open at 9am and flying displays to be conducted from 11am to 4.30pm. Tickets officially went on sale on August 13.
The American defence company produces the V-BAT vertical-takeoff and landing, AI-based uncrewed aerial system for military, border protection, law enforcement, search and rescue, climate surveillance and disaster management operations.
The remotely piloted aircraft system, which can carry a 25-kilogram underslung payload with a maximum 40-minute flight time and a maximum 15-kilometre operating range, was tested as a possible delivery system for the Royal Australian Navy to receive crucial stores without having to launch a helicopter or off-task personnel.
Defence has confirmed initial tests were recently completed on the first remotely piloted aircraft system, based at RAAF Base Tindal, and that the second and third aircraft arrived at the facility in May this year.