RAAF Base Tindal Upgrade and Triton Drones
The Albanese government is directing more Defence funding into Australia's north, completing a $355 million upgrade at RAAF Base Tindal. This initiative aims to enhance strategic capabilities amid growing tension in the Indo-Pacific region.
Triton Drones and Enhanced Capabilities
Assistant Defence Minister Peter Khalil announced the completion of the upgrade, which enables RAAF Base Tindal to support MQ-4C Triton remotely piloted aircraft. These drones are utilized for maritime surveillance and expand defensive coverage across Australia's northern approaches.
The Triton fleet will operate from RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory. Remote piloting will be conducted by the newly reformed Number 9 Squadron at RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia. Four Tritons are scheduled to be acquired: the first arrived in 2024, and two more are expected in mid-2025.
Mr. Khalil stated that the aircraft are not armed but play a critical role in maritime surveillance and monitoring shipping routes.
The Tritons offer a 24-hour flight time and a top speed of approximately 600 kilometers per hour, providing significant range and endurance not achievable by crewed platforms.
Strategic Alignment and Defence Estate Future
The upgrade aligns with priorities outlined in the 2023 Defence Strategic Review, which emphasized strengthening northern bases. The works at RAAF Base Tindal include the construction of purpose-built hangars, working accommodation, and upgraded airfield pavements.
The government is also preparing to announce changes to the Defence estate following an audit of the Australian Defence Force's property portfolio.
Mr. Khalil indicated a focus on ensuring Defence properties are fit for purpose for modern strategic challenges, suggesting potential sales of non-essential assets.
Port of Darwin and Regional Alliances
Questions persist regarding the Port of Darwin, which has been under a 99-year lease to the Chinese-linked Landbridge Group since 2015.
Mr. Khalil stated that the process to address this issue is "underway," with assessments being conducted by the National Security Committee.
Regarding international relations, Mr. Khalil stressed Australia's focus on building its own military capability and alliances with regional partners, including the United States and other Indo-Pacific allies. This strategy aims to secure peace, stability, and economic interests in the region.
Significant Northern Investment
The Tindal upgrade is part of over $2.8 billion invested by the government since 2022 to strengthen the ADF's presence across northern Australia.
This level of peacetime investment is described as the largest since World War II, with further investments anticipated.