In a strategic move to bolster security in the Middle East, Australia is dispatching an E-7A Wedgetail aircraft to the region. This deployment, announced on March 10, aligns with the nation’s commitment to enhancing airspace protection and supporting allied operations in the Gulf.
The Royal Australian Air Force’s No. 2 Squadron will operate the E-7A Wedgetail, which will deliver essential long-range reconnaissance capabilities over a four-week mission. Although the exact location for the aircraft’s base has not been disclosed, Al Minad Air Base near Dubai, where Australia has maintained a presence since 2003, is a probable option.
The backdrop to this deployment includes recent tensions, with twelve Gulf nations being the focus of Iranian actions following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Tehran that occurred on February 28.
Australia’s E-7A Wedgetail is no stranger to deployment. It previously supported efforts in Ukraine and U.S. operations against the Islamic State in Syria from 2014 to 2020. The aircraft is anticipated to significantly enhance the region’s defenses, particularly against Iranian drone and missile threats. According to Malcolm Davis from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, the Wedgetail’s presence will be a “huge boost” for regional defense.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has faced over 1,500 Iranian rocket and drone attacks, will also see its defense capabilities strengthened. Australia will supply the UAE with AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) to replenish its stocks. These missiles are expected to be older variants, as a sale of newer models to Australia is not scheduled until 2025.
While Australia supports international efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, it has clarified its stance on not engaging in offensive operations. “The Albanese government has been clear that we are not taking offensive action against Iran, and we have been clear that we are not deploying Australian troops on the ground in Iran,” as stated by the Australian government.
Additionally, 85 Australian troops, along with a C-17A transport aircraft and a KC-30A aerial tanker, will be sent to the Gulf region as part of this strategic deployment.
