RAAF confirms arrival of third MC-55A Peregrine aircraft to RAAF Base Edinburgh

Australia had previously announced the acquisition of four MC‑55A aircraft to deliver critical intelligence in real time, strengthening Australia’s monitoring of strategic maritime approaches and integrating with allied and partner systems, including the US and the UK, reinforcing collective security.

“The third Royal Australian Air Force MC-55A Peregrine has arrived at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia,” according to a Defence statement.

“The MC-55A Peregrine is a first-of-type, airborne intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and electronic warfare (ISREW) capability.

“The aircraft will be operated by 10SQN and based at RAAF Base Edinburgh, SA.”

Earlier this year, the Royal Australian Air Force also confirmed the first fully crewed mission had been conducted by an MC-55A Peregrine aircraft as part of No. 10 Squadron.

“The Royal Australian Air Force is currently conducting flying activities as part of ongoing training, test and evaluation for the MC-55A Peregrine,” a Defence spokesperson said.

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“Once this process is complete, the aircraft will integrate with the Royal Australian Air Force family of airborne intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, including the P-8A Poseidon and the MQ-4C Triton.”

Each aircraft is modelled on the Gulfstream G550 airframe as a long-range, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft designed to deliver multiple sources of intelligence in support of Defence operations.

“The introduction of the MC-55A Peregrine represents a significant step forward in strengthening Australia’s ability to monitor and protect its strategic interests, including key maritime approaches,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles said.

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.