The Australian government said the MQ-28A Ghost Bat military drone, designed and manufactured in collaboration with an Australian subsidiary of US aircraft manufacturer Boeing, can perform a variety of functions, including combat roles, according to Reuters.
“This is the first military aircraft to be designed, engineered and manufactured in Australia in more than 50 years and demonstrates the depth of innovation and expertise in our defence industry,” Australian Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said in a statement.
The Australian government has spent 600 million AUD to buy 10 MQ-28A Ghost Bats.
First images of the MQ-28A Ghost Bat drone
The Drive Screenshot
Australia is trying to boost domestic defence production, arguing that big-ticket defence projects such as the AUKUS cooperation deal with the US and UK have created jobs.
The Australian Government confirms the new investment in the MQ-28A Ghost Bat will secure more than 350 jobs across Australia and will ensure ongoing work for more than 200 associated service providers.
Previously, in November 2022, the US Department of Defense announced the approval of a package to sell 24 C-130J-30 transport aircraft and other equipment for $6.35 billion to Australia, according to AFP.
“This proposed sale will improve Australia’s ability to address current and future threats by providing the Royal Australian Air Force with replacements for its aging cargo fleet, ensuring reliable airlift capability,” the US Department of Defense said in a statement.
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