The unmanned combat aerial vehicle produced by Boeing in Australia will be named the MQ-28A Ghost Bat.
Boeing Australia extends congratulations to the Australian Government and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) on their choice of ‘MQ-28A Ghost Bat’ as the military designator and name for the first domestically-produced military combat aircraft in Australia in over 50 years.
The announcement of the designator and name was made by Australia’s Defence Minister, the Hon Peter Dutton MP, during a special ceremony held at RAAF Base Amberley, Queensland. The development program, with a swift timeline of only three years from concept to first flight, utilizes advancements in digital engineering, advanced manufacturing, and innovative Australian supply chain technologies.
Dr. Brendan Nelson AO, President of Boeing Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific, expressed that the enduring partnership with the Commonwealth of Australia and Australian Defence Force (ADF) plays a crucial role in the successful advancement of the complex technologies and capabilities of the MQ-28A. Additionally, he emphasized that this partnership holds global export potential for Australia.
“The introduction of the new widely embraced name marks a significant and memorable milestone in aviation history for our esteemed partners in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and the collaborative team of over 35 Australian suppliers. Choosing the name ‘Ghost Bat’ pays tribute to the remarkable traits of this Australian indigenous mammal, known for its cooperative nature in detecting and hunting as a pack. It aptly represents the exceptional attributes of the aircraft’s sensors and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance capabilities, making it a fitting name for this groundbreaking innovation,” expressed Glen Ferguson, Director of Airpower Teaming System Australia and International.
As the RAAF Loyal Wingman development program name transitions, Boeing will maintain the global product name as the Airpower Teaming System. Throughout 2022, the program will intensify its efforts to expedite the development and testing of the MQ-28A Ghost Bat, emphasizing enhancements in sensor technology and mission capabilities to fulfill the commitments made to the RAAF.
As Boeing progresses towards the goal of providing an operational capability for the Australian Defence Force (ADF), these requirements will consistently grow. The aircraft is specifically designed as a force multiplier, capable of flying in collaboration with manned aircraft for support and independently executing autonomous missions using artificial intelligence.
