TThe Royal Australian Air Force has officially welcomed the first MC-55A Peregrine to Australia – a first-of-type airborne intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and electronic warfare (ISREW) platform. The Peregrine marks a major milestone in strengthening the nation’s sovereign defence capability.
Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Stephen Chappell announced that the introduction of the MC-55A to Air Force’s fleet will ensure Defence has a critical enabler for advanced capabilities. As identified in the 2024 Integrated Investment Program, the aircraft will also provide important intelligence information to support ADF missions.
“The MC-55A Peregrine is more than an aircraft – it is a strategic capability that reinforces our ability to protect national interests in an increasingly complex security environment,” Air Marshal Chappell said.
The aircraft will be operated by 10 Squadron and based at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia.
“The arrival of the MC-55A Peregrine is a major milestone for our squadron,” said Squadron Leader Damian Ross, temporary Commanding Officer 10 Squadron.
“Its advanced systems will deliver real-time threat warning and actionable intelligence to support decision-making.”
The MC-55A will be a key component of Australia’s broader Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) enterprise. Modelled on the Gulfstream G550 airframe, the aircraft has been extensively enhanced by L3Harris Technologies.
It will complement platforms such as the P-8A Poseidon and MQ-4C Triton, forming a critical link in the nation’s surveillance and electronic warfare assets.
The aircraft integrates seamlessly with allied and partner systems, allowing the ADF to share intelligence with key partners such as the United Kingdom and the United States. This strengthens collective security and Australia’s ability to respond quickly to evolving regional threats.
Officer Commanding 92 Wing Group Captain James Collison said the MC-55A Peregrine enhanced ADF capability by delivering intelligence in support of operations and strengthening Australia’s ability to monitor its strategic area of interest.
“It ensures Australia maintains a strategic edge while working closely with our allies,” Group Captain James Collison said.
With the MC-55A Peregrine now in service, the Royal Australian Air Force is at the forefront of airborne intelligence and electronic warfare. The platform ensures the ADF is equipped to meet emerging challenges and continue protecting Australia’s national and regional security interests.
Public release Flying Officer Abi Lahon
Defence image Royal Australian Air Force and United States Air Force aircrew of the MC-55A Peregrine gather for a group photo upon its arrival at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia.
