RAAF Receives First Peregrine Surveillance Aircraft in Major ISR Boost

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has received its first Peregrine surveillance aircraft, marking a significant milestone in Australia’s efforts to enhance intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.

The Peregrine aircraft is designed to provide advanced airborne surveillance, supporting a wide range of missions including maritime patrol, border security, disaster response and national defence operations. Its arrival strengthens the RAAF’s ability to monitor vast areas across Australia’s air and maritime domains.

Equipped with modern sensor systems, the Peregrine can collect, process and relay critical intelligence in real time. This capability allows defence forces to respond more rapidly to potential threats, illegal activities and humanitarian emergencies, particularly across Australia’s extensive coastline and remote regions.

The new aircraft forms part of a broader modernisation programme aimed at upgrading the RAAF’s surveillance and situational awareness platforms. As regional security dynamics evolve, Australia has placed increased emphasis on enhancing ISR assets to support both domestic security and allied operations.

Defence officials note that the Peregrine will operate alongside other surveillance platforms, improving coordination across air, sea and land domains. The aircraft’s flexibility makes it suitable for both military and civil support missions, including search and rescue and disaster monitoring.

The delivery of the first Peregrine also highlights the growing role of advanced aviation technology in modern defence strategy. By investing in specialised aircraft and integrated sensor systems, the RAAF aims to maintain operational readiness while adapting to emerging security challenges.

Further deliveries of the Peregrine fleet are expected in the coming months, gradually expanding Australia’s airborne surveillance capacity. Once fully operational, the aircraft will play a key role in safeguarding national interests and supporting regional stability.

The induction of the Peregrine represents another step in the RAAF’s long‑term transformation, reinforcing Australia’s commitment to maintaining a technologically advanced and resilient air force.