A New Era of Aerial Surveillance The first of four business jets, radically transformed by L3Harris into airborne surveillance and electronic warfare platforms, has arrived at a military base in southern Australia. The aircraft, designated MC-55A Peregrine, is an advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Electronic Warfare (ISREW) system, built upon the Gulfstream G550 business jet, and landed at RAAF Base Edinburgh late last week. Its arrival marks a key moment in the modernization of the country’s defense capabilities.
A Crucial Instrument for National Security Australian officials emphasize that this advanced capability fortifies Australia’s national defense posture and significantly contributes to deterrence. Integrated within an agile and well-coordinated force, the MC-55A ensures that the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) is ready to detect, disrupt, deter, and if necessary defeat threats. This acquisition is a testament to the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) commitment to readiness and resilience.
Strategic Partnerships and Information Sharing Defence Minister Richard Marles highlighted that the MC-55A represents a major step forward in strengthening Australia’s ability to monitor and protect strategic interests, including critical maritime approaches. He added that this capability will seamlessly integrate with allied and partner systems, allowing the Air Force and ADF to share intelligence with security partners such as the United Kingdom and the United States, thereby reinforcing collective security and enhancing regional stability. The MC-55A aircraft will be operated by RAAF’s 10 Squadron at Edinburgh Base, which already hosts Australia’s fleet of Northrop-Grumman MQ-4C Triton unmanned maritime surveillance aircraft and Boeing P-8A Poseidon multi-mission anti-submarine aircraft.
From Business Jet to Force Multiplier An L3Harris representative described the aircraft as a crucial „force multiplier” in delivering critical data for long-range targeting, regional deployments, and efficient mission planning. The acquisition of the four MC-55A aircraft was approved in 2017, under Project AIR 555, through a Foreign Military Sale with the US Air Force, which included significant external modifications to the baseline G550 aircraft. The most visible modifications include a long, canoe-shaped housing for ISREW equipment under the forward fuselage, as well as numerous antennas throughout the fuselage and wings. Modifications also included additional power supply, changes to the Rolls Royce engines, improved cooling capabilities, and an increase in the aircraft’s empty weight.
Continuous Support and Local Commitment L3Harris stated that subsequent aircraft will remain in the possession of the US Air Force, while supporting Australian training and pre-delivery requirements. The company has established a field service team based in Australia to collaborate with local industry partners, thereby ensuring in-country support.
