Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil, will today officially open the new MQ-4C Triton facilities at RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory, marking a major milestone for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and delivering a significant boost to Australia's air and maritime surveillance capabilities.
Delivered under the $355.7 million Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Facilities Project, RAAF Base Tindal will serve as the home of the Royal Australian Air Force's MQ-4C Triton aircraft.
The aircraft will be launched at Tindal and flown by Air Force pilots from a ground station at RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia. The remotely piloted aircraft system allows the Triton to operate at higher altitudes and remain airborne for longer periods than a traditional piloted aircraft, providing persistent surveillance across Australia's maritime approaches.
Designed by BVN and constructed by Sitzler Pty Ltd, the project commenced in May 2023 and includes a purpose-built hangar, working accommodation, upgraded airfield pavements and supporting infrastructure to enable sustained Triton operations.
The new facilities strengthen Defence's Cooperative Program with the United States Navy and support the 2024 National Defence Strategy, which prioritises enhancing northern bases and investing in uncrewed systems to expand Australia's intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities across the air and space domains.
Since 2022, the Albanese Government has invested over $2.8 billion in strengthening the ADF's presence across Northern Australia, with 43 projects either completed or underway. Over $166 million in contracts for the Triton facilities project were awarded to Northern Territory businesses, including $7.5 million to Indigenous subcontractors, delivering a significant economic contribution to the region.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil:
"The completion of these facilities at Tindal is a critical step in strengthening our northern defence capability and is yet another example of our commitment to deliver the priorities outlined in the 2024 National Defence Strategy."
"This suite of new infrastructure will enable the ADF to operate advanced uncrewed aircraft from Australia's north, enhancing persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance along our maritime boarders and across the broader region."
"The project also deepens Australia's Cooperative Program with the US Navy, by ensuring our forces can operate seamlessly together in support of regional stability."
"Investing in critical infrastructure and advanced capabilities across our northern bases is critical to ensuring Australia is ready to face whatever challenges arise in the future."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour:
"This project has delivered real benefits for the Territory, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and building skills that will continue to benefit the region well into the future.
"Working closely with local industry and Indigenous contractors has been central to this project, ensuring the investment strengthens not only Defence capability but also the local economy.
"RAAF Base Tindal is a valued part of the local community, and these new facilities will support the men and women who live and work here as they carry out their vital role."
Quotes attributable to Special Envoy for Defence, Veterans' Affairs & Northern Australia, Luke Gosling:
"The completion of the MQ-4C Triton facilities at RAAF Base Tindal reflects the Northern Territory's central role in Australia's national security. It recognises the work of our Defence personnel, the importance of our northern bases, and the strength of our local Defence industry in keeping Australians safe.
"This investment gives the ADF a powerful new capability to see further, stay airborne longer and maintain constant situational awareness. It will significantly strengthen our maritime surveillance and ensure Australia is better prepared to respond to emerging security challenges across the Indo-Pacific."
