The Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton, known for its high-altitude and long-endurance capabilities, will enhance maritime ISR&T functions.
Northrop Grumman Corporation and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) have announced the first MQ-4C Triton uncrewed aircraft into service after six weeks of arrival in the country. Australia’s Triton program remains on track with three additional aircraft currently in production.
The MQ-4C Triton, renowned for its high-altitude and extended endurance capabilities, will now provide advanced maritime intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting (ISR&T) functions. The ceremony at RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory marks a significant enhancement in Australia’s maritime operational capabilities.
Christine Zeitz, chief executive and general manager, Australia & New Zealand, Northrop Grumman, “As one of the most advanced intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting systems in the world, and a product of a cooperative development program between Australia and the United States, Triton is a proven multi-mission, multi-domain national security asset vital to the Australian Defence Force during this critical time.
In November 2023, Northrop Grumman achieved a milestone with the successful inaugural flight of Australia’s MQ-4C Triton uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) at its Palmdale facility. The production of the remaining three MQ-4C Triton units, which are under contract, is proceeding according to the established timeline. Upon completion of the fielding process, the MQ-4C Tritons will be operated by Number 9 Squadron.
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These aircraft will be stationed at two RAAF bases—RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia and RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory—to conduct comprehensive surveillance operations across the Indo-Pacific region.
