Boeing’s MQ-28A Ghost Bat Australian supplier base has increased by 60 percent – to 55 suppliers – four years after initial concept unveiling.
Making its public debut at Avalon 2023, the MQ-28 is the first Australian-designed, developed and manufactured military combat aircraft in half-a-century.
“The support of agile local suppliers has been vital to the rapid manufacture of this revolutionary uncrewed aircraft and its payloads, which will support a range of missions,” said Glen Ferguson, director MQ-28 Global Program, Boeing Australia.
“The Boeing MQ-28 program proves Australian industry can create a seamless link between airpower capability needs, local innovation and job opportunities.”
Boeing said aircraft development is progressing, with a 'robust' flight test schedule underway and validation of MQ-28’s operational capabilities in an all-digital environment to refine mission sets is ongoing.
“Programs like Boeing’s MQ-28A Ghost Bat help to sustain and grow the important relationship Defence has with Australian industry,” said Air Vice-Marshal Wendy Blyth, Head of Air Force Capability, Royal Australian Air Force.
Lovitt Technologies Australia and Marand Precision Engineering are two suppliers applying solutions to develop the fighter-like aircraft with Boeing.
“Providing tooling experience and machined parts for this game-changing air vehicle has been an excellent fit for our capabilities and the technical expertise of our workforce,” said Rohan Stocker, Marand CEO and long-term Boeing supplier.
Program capability partner, BAE Systems Australia has also signed an extension of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) as a shared commitment to the development of a 'sustainable, sovereign MQ-28 program'.
“The MOU supports the development and implementation of cutting-edge design and technologies, along with the resources and skills to support autonomy development as the program evolves,” said Ben Hudson, chief executive officer BAE Systems Australia.