The MQ-4C Triton facility has been opened at RAAF Base Tindal.
Opened by Assistant Minister for Defence Peter Khalil, the AIR 7000 Phase 1B Project has seen the delivery of maintenance hangars, airfield pavements and accommodation support infrastructure.
“What you see here is a whole‑of‑country effort,” Assistant Minister Khalil said.
“Industry, Defence, contractors and our men and women in uniform working together towards a common goal – protecting our national interests.”
Construction of the facility commenced in May 2023 and has seen the federal government invest over $166 million into contracts with local Northern Territory businesses.
The Triton aircraft are a valuable asset in the RAAF’s fleet, with the long-endurance, unmanned aerial vehicles being a critical milestone in the advancement of Australia’s defensive position, as outlined in the National Defence Strategy.
“The defence of Australia’s national interests depends on our ability to protect and monitor the northern maritime approaches,” Assistant Minister Khalil said.
“The work the Tritons will do contributes directly to the security and stability of our region, and that underpins the prosperity of our nation as a trading country.”
Commanding Officer No. 9 Squadron Wing Commander Neale Thompson said the new maintenance facility will enable the Triton to be a helpful addition in a range of missions and operations.
“It’s incredibly satisfying to see this facility finished,” WGCDR Thompson said.
“It provides us with our permanent home at RAAF Base Tindal – a facility that has been designed, conceived and built with our people in mind, and will serve the squadron for many years to come.”
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