The American made, catapult-launched and skyhook-recovered expeditionary drones have already been used in skies over Shoalwater Bay in Queensland.
The NH90 medium helicopter, manufactured by NHIndustries, has received negative feedback internationally with Australia and Norway having withdrawn the aircraft. The Australian decision took place after a fatal crash during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023.
This year’s exercise will feature a range of new Australian Defence Force capabilities, including UH-60M Black Hawks and the Precision Strike Missile.
Out of the 10 successful graduates completing the Introductory Fighter Course (IFC), five will now go on to complete a conversion course to the F-35A, two to the Super Hornet, and another two to the Growler.
The event, overseen by Australian Aviation’s sister brand Defence Connect, was held at the National Convention Centre in Canberra on Thursday and run with support from principal partner, Commonwealth Bank.
Three of the combat utility helicopters have been transferred to the Army Aviation Training Centre in Oakey, establishing the Army’s second UH-60M Black Hawk operating node.