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.
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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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