L3Harris Technologies has delivered the first MC-55A Peregrine aircraft to the U.S. Air Force following the completion of integration and mission systems testing. This delivery represents a significant milestone in the process of establishing Australia’s new Peregrine fleet.
Electronic Warfare and Intelligence Capability
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) will use these customized business jets, procured under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, for multi-domain “airborne electronic warfare and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance” (ISR) operations. The platforms are designed to support both Australia’s national defense and allied operations.
Jason Lambert, President of L3Harris ISR, Space and Mission Systems, made the following remarks regarding the aircraft’s operational importance: “The MC-55A Peregrine will be a force multiplier by delivering critical data for long-range targeting, regional deployments, and effective mission planning. This specialized aircraft will provide the RAAF with information superiority and serve as a strategic asset for future Australian Defence Force operations.”
Operational Process and Local Support
The first delivered aircraft was accepted by the U.S. Air Force on behalf of the RAAF. It was reported that the remaining aircraft in the fleet will continue operating within the U.S. Air Force for a period in order to meet training and pre-delivery technical requirements.
L3Harris also announced that it has established a field service team in Australia, working in cooperation with local industry partners, to ensure systems remain up to date. This team will keep the aircraft ready against future threats through software and hardware upgrades.
Source: C4Defence / L3Harris Technologies
