Australia Signs $660M Contract for First 6 MQ-28 Ghost Bat Drones

Australia has reportedly signed a AU$1 billion contract with Boeing for six MQ-28 Ghost Bat uncrewed aircraft, marking a significant transition from flight testing to operational procurement by the Royal Australian Air Force. Developed under the Airpower Teaming System program, the Ghost Bat would become the first Australian-designed military aircraft in service since the 1970s. The aircraft is designed to operate as a ’loyal wingman’ alongside crewed fighters, performing intelligence, sensing, and weapons employment missions. Flight trials concluded ahead of schedule in 2025, demonstrating advanced autonomous capabilities and networked operations integration.