Australia’s Department of Defence has confirmed initial operational capability for the Royal Australian Air Force’s MQ-4C Triton and MC-55A Peregrine on 22 September 2026. The Triton unmanned surveillance aircraft is operating from RAAF Base Tindal and supported from RAAF Base Edinburgh, while the MC-55A electronic warfare and intelligence platform has reached IOC after three aircraft were delivered, with a fourth due later this year.
The Triton is flown by No. 9 Squadron and provides persistent long-range intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance across Australia’s primary area of military interest. The MC-55A Peregrine, operated by No. 10 Squadron at Edinburgh, expands integrated ISR and electronic warfare support for Defence operations. Both programmes reached IOC after extensive operational testing and evaluation.
Northrop Grumman Australia is involved in the Triton programme, which is now in operational service. The Peregrine fleet remains in build-up, with capability growth continuing alongside broader RAAF surveillance modernisation efforts. The milestone gives the air force two new platforms for maritime and electronic mission support across the Indo-Pacific.