RAAF Set to Receive New Multi-Mission Aircraft

Photo: The MC-55A taking flight. (L3Harris photo)

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) is set to receive a new multi-mission intelligence aircraft, the MC-55A Peregrine, this year. Prime contractor L3Harris is finalising developmental work after delays in the program.

The MC-55A is a modified version of the Gulfstream G550, part of a global trend of equipping business jets with advanced military systems. Australia procured four aircraft through the US Air Force’s foreign military sales process in 2019. However, the project has faced setbacks, with initial deliveries anticipated as early as 2023.

L3Harris has stated that the project remains within contractual cost and schedule frameworks, despite the delays. Challenges arose from adjustments to flight parameters and modifications to the aircraft’s structure to accommodate military equipment.

Following certification from the US Federal Aviation Administration in December, the aircraft is now on track for delivery. The Australian Department of Defence has not confirmed an exact timeline but expects the aircraft within the next 12 months.

The MC-55A is designed for strategic intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Its capabilities include electronic warfare and command and control functions. The RAAF will be the first operator of this specific configuration, which features an extensive suite of sensors and mission systems integrated into a business jet platform.

L3Harris is also pursuing further international sales of the MC-55A. Another foreign military sales customer has reportedly purchased a G550 with similar mission systems, though details remain undisclosed.