Royal Australian Air Force [RAAF] News, Discussions and Updates

[hauritz]

Japan has awarded a contract to Boeing to test drones for their manned-unmanned teaming research and development program. The obvious contender for these tests in the MQ-28. This could be a shot in the arm for Australia after this aircraft lost out on selection for the US collaborative combat aircraft program.

Of course there are other implications down the track as this project may well form part of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP).

Boeing to Test Drones for Japanese ‘Loyal Wingman’ Experiment

Japan has awarded Boeing a contract to test aerial drones for the manned-unmanned teaming research and development.

thedefensepost.com

 

[Vivendi]

Has there been any discussions in Australia about joining GCAP? The longer legs of the Tempest compared to the F-35 could perhaps be of interest to Australia, together with the CCA?

 

[Mark_Evans]

Has there been any discussions in Australia about joining GCAP? The longer legs of the Tempest compared to the F-35 could perhaps be of interest to Australia, together with the CCA?

We are unlikely to get NGAD so it is definitely a conversation worth having. Better relationship with Japan and expansion of ties with UK.

 

[hauritz]

Has there been any discussions in Australia about joining GCAP? The longer legs of the Tempest compared to the F-35 could perhaps be of interest to Australia, together with the CCA?

Australia has been approached. Whether as a partner or a customer isn't certain but from what little I have read about GCAP it does seem to address a lot of Australia's needs. It would contribibute to our long range strike capability and cheaper than alternatives such as the B-21. Then as a sweetener there is the possibility of the MQ-28 being selected as a CCA.

Australia urged to seriously consider next-gen British, Italian, Japanese Global Combat Air Programme

As adversarial airpower continues to evolve at breakneck speed, keeping ahead of the competitor is of paramount importance. But our options are, in many ways, limited, with a growing chorus calling for Australia to partner early with the UK, Japan, and Italy on the next-gen Global Combat Air...

www.defenceconnect.com.au