Australia receives the first MQ-4C patrol drone from Northrop Grumman

The Royal Australian Air Force has adopted the Northrop Grumman MQ-4C patrol drone.

Here's What We Know

The MQ-4C (A57-001), which Australia received from the United States, landed at Tyndall Air Force Base, which will become its permanent home base. The drone became part of the 9th Squadron of the Royal Australian Air Force. The drone will primarily be used as a maritime patrol drone. It is planned to support the anti-submarine activities of P-8A Poseidon aircraft.

The main highlight of the MQ-4C is that it has stronger fuselage parts, as it will operate at low altitudes above the water, where the likelihood of collision with birds is much higher than at other altitudes.

Australia plans to acquire seven of these drones, and in general, the country is currently strengthening its anti-submarine and reconnaissance capabilities in the air force. In addition, Australia has recently purchased an additional batch of P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft, which form the backbone of the country's anti-submarine forces.

Source: Janes