The next decade of investment: What’s in it for Air Force

The 2026 National Defence Strategy will help Air Force transition into a ready-now force.

Further investments in capability priorities will be made including in expeditionary air operations to project force into Australia’s primary area of military interest. This includes continued capability and sustainment enhancements to the current fleet

Twenty additional C-130J Hercules will be acquired to replace the existing fleet and expand tactical airlift capacity.

At the same time, the C-27J Spartan fleet will be replaced, including options to maintain the ADF’s ability to support the sovereign airlift and surveillance needs of Pacific partners through the Defence Pacific Air Program.

Scaling the MQ-28A Ghost Bat program to multiply the lethality and survivability of the crewed fleet.

Aircraft strike capability will be enhanced through the integration of long range weapons with the P-8A Poseidon, F/A-18F Super Hornet and F-35A Lightning II for striking land and maritime targets from a greater distance.

There will also be investment in hypersonic technology, including the continued development of hypersonic air-launched weapons for use with combat aircraft.

The integration of extended range radiation-seeking missiles with the EA-18G Growler and F-35A will enhance their ability to target radar systems.

To maintain a world-leading airborne battle management capability, Air Force’s E-7A Wedgetail will continue to be sustained while plans for its scheduled replacement are underway.

Investment in infrastructure at northern air bases, including RAAF bases Tindal, Darwin, Townsville and Learmonth, will support dispersed and sustained air operations. These investments are fundamental to hold potential adversary forces at risk, project force and sustain protracted combat operations.