The Australian Department of Defence (DOD) announced that they are planning to acquire four modified Gulfstream G550 business jets as an airborne electronic warfare platform.

According to Australian Defence Minister Christopher Pyne, the new aircraft will be integrated to the Australian Defence Force’s joint warfighting network, and will be a crucial link between platforms like the F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter, the E-7A Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft, the EA-18G electronic attack aircraft, and the navy’s surface combatants, amphibious assault ships and ground assets.

It was estimated that the project will cost around US$1.7 billion.

The new aircraft will be designated as the MC-55A Peregrine, and will be operated by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).