The Royal Australian Air Force has completed Exercise Carlsbad at Base Tindal in the Northern Territory, marking its first deployment and operation of the MQ-28A Ghost Bat outside the Woomera Training Area in South Australia.
The exercise tested the platform’s ability to operate in a new environment and focused on deployment logistics, system checks, and mission readiness.
The MQ-28A was transported from the Australian International Air Show to Tindal via a C-17 Globemaster aircraft.
Exercise Carlsbad is one of several trials scheduled throughout this year to assess and refine the Ghost Bat’s operational capabilities.
The MQ-28A is an uncrewed aircraft designed to operate alongside crewed platforms, performing tasks similar to fighter jets.
It supports and extends airborne missions by enhancing situational awareness and survivability.
“Capabilities such as the MQ-28A are important as they will save Australian lives and provide us with the combat mass to defend Australia and its national interests,” stated Exercise Carlsbad Commander Wing Commander Phillip Parsons.
“This is a huge achievement of the collaborative work between the Royal Australian Air Force and Boeing Defence Australia.”
Australia’s MQ-28A Program
The MQ-28A Ghost Bat, developed by Boeing Defence Australia, is the first military aircraft designed and built in Australia in over five decades.
The program includes eight initial aircraft for testing and evaluation, along with work on mission payloads and autonomous system integration.
Three additional Block 2 variants, with design upgrades, enhanced capabilities, and a ground control station, are scheduled for delivery under a 400-million Australian dollar ($260 million) contract.
Earlier this month, the Royal Australian Air Force and Boeing conducted tests involving two MQ-28A drones controlled by an E-7A Wedgetail.
Last year, Boeing announced plans to build a new facility in Australia to support MQ-28 production.
