Arrival of Growler attack aircraft marks new era for Australia's defence force, Marise Payne says
Updated
Australia's latest multi-billion-dollar defence spend has been put on display for the first time, with the arrival of the EA-18G Growler attack aircraft marking the country's first entry into electronic warfare.
Together with the controversial and costly F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, the Growler — which is packed with radar and radio jamming systems — will be at the centre of the Australian Defence Force's airstrike capability.
Air Force Chief Air Marshal Leo Davies welcomed the Growler to the first trade day of the Australian International Airshow at Avalon Airport.
"This is a beast, it was built to be a war aircraft and that's exactly what we plan to use it for," he said.
Defence Minister Marise Payne said the Growler's arrival marked the beginning of a new era for the Defence Force.
"It adds a dedicated electronic attack option for the first time," she said.
Through its jamming pods, the Growler can disrupt military electronic systems to help protect ADF personnel on the ground as well as provide a tactical advantage.
No sooner had the aircraft touched down on the Avalon runway, Ms Payne announced a further $250 million joint project with the United States Navy to develop new technology to futureproof the Growler.
"Electronic warfare is a rapidly evolving area and we want to ensure that these aircraft remain at the technological forefront throughout their service life," she said.
Twelve Growler aircraft have been ordered by the RAAF and will be based in Ipswich by the middle of the year.
It was the major drawcard on day one of the Australian International Airshow, with trade representatives flooding the airfield to see the latest developments in the aerospace industry.
Thousands of international delegates kicked the tyres of luxury aircraft and got up close with exhibitors spruiking their wares.
The Airshow opens to the public on Friday with the F-35 landing at Avalon to go on display.
Topics: defence-forces, defence-and-national-security, defence-industry, geelong-3220
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