Australia and Japan Finalize Agreement for MQ-28A Ghost Bat Drone Testing
Australia has formalized an agreement with Japan for the participation of Japanese personnel in MQ-28A Ghost Bat testing. This collaboration, effective from April 2026 to March 2027, enhances defense cooperation and operational capabilities between the two nations.

On April 18, 2026, Australia and Japan finalized an Implementing Arrangement (IA) for the MQ-28A Ghost Bat drone, allowing Japan Air Self-Defense Force personnel to engage in flight testing in Australia. This IA, stemming from a prior agreement made on September 5, 2025, sets a framework for cooperation during Japan's fiscal year 2026, without establishing a joint command structure.
The MQ-28A program, having conducted over 100 test flights since its first flight on February 27, 2021, is in a transition phase toward operational capability, with a service entry anticipated around 2028 and total investment exceeding A$600 million. Further, Boeing Aerostructures Australia leads manufacturing in Melbourne, supported by over 200 local suppliers, with a significant portion of expenditures retained in the national economy.




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