(21 Mar 2022, 08:59 +07)
The Australian Government and Royal Australian
Air Force (RAAF) has chosen ‘MQ-28A Ghost Bat’ as the military
designator and name for the first Australian-produced military
combat aircraft in over 50 years.
“The introduction of the new popular name is a
rare and special moment in aviation history for our RAAF partners
and industry team of over 35 Australian suppliers,” said Glen
Ferguson, director Airpower Teaming System Australia and
International. “Selecting the Ghost Bat, an Australian native
mammal known for teaming together in a pack to detect and hunt,
reflects the unique characteristics of the aircraft’s sensors and
Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance abilities, and is a
fitting name for this pioneering capability.”
MQ-28A Ghost Bat
While the RAAF Loyal Wingman development program
name will phase out, Boeing’s product name for global customers
will remain the Airpower Teaming System.
“Our enduring partnership with Commonwealth of
Australia and Australian Defence Force (ADF) is fundamental to the
successful development of MQ-28A’s complex technologies and
capabilities, and has global export potential for Australia,” said
Dr Brendan Nelson AO, president Boeing Australia, New Zealand and
South Pacific.
With a rapid development timetable of just three
years from ideation to first flight, the development program
leverages advancements in digital engineering, advanced
manufacturing and Australian supply chain technologies.
During 2022, the program will continue to
accelerate the development and testing of the MQ-28A Ghost Bat,
with a focus on sensor and mission capabilities to deliver on RAAF
commitments. These requirements will continue to expand as Boeing
moves towards the aim of delivering an operational capability for
the ADF.
MQ-28A Ghost Bat
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