The aircraft and crew will operate out of Kadena Air Base in Japan, from 1 April, as it contributes to regional security and supports international United Nations Security Council sanctions enforcement against North Korea.
In this iteration of Operation Solania, the ADF deployed a Royal Australian Air Force C-27J Spartan from No. 35 Squadron and supporting personnel to Kwajalein to support the maritime surveillance of the Marshall Islands' exclusive economic zone.
Baltimore FW282, which had been operated by the RAAF’s 454 Squadron and crewed by officers from Australia, New Zealand and the UK, was found last year in 61 metres of water by Greek technical diving group AegeanTec. The RAAF has now publicly confirmed the plane’s identity.
The deliveries of both aircraft are scheduled for 2026. According to Bombardier, when configured for business jet use, the aircraft has an endurance of up to 11 hours, a dispatch reliability exceeding 99.9 per cent, and a range of 4,000 nautical miles (approximately 7,408 kilometres).
Defence says the project is envisioned to fund up to $160 million into the local economy and create and sustain 80 highly skilled jobs across Adelaide.
Located just outside the Army’s Holsworthy Base, the 4,500-square-metre facility forms part of Lockheed Martin Australia’s integrated support contract with the Army. The warehouse stores replenishment spares, support and test equipment, and essential provisions.