Australia has announced its decision to deploy an E-7A Wedgetail surveillance aircraft to Germany, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s illegal invasion. The move comes as part of Australia’s ongoing efforts to ensure the flow of international military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and to protect vital supply routes.
U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Daniel Snider, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, following discussions with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin, revealed the deployment plans ahead of his attendance at a Nato summit, where the crisis in Ukraine is set to dominate the agenda. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Australia is taking proactive steps to bolster the multinational logistics hubs that facilitate critical support to Ukraine.
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) will dispatch the E-7A Wedgetail aircraft for a period of approximately six months, starting in October. The primary mission of this deployment is to safeguard the uninterrupted flow of military and humanitarian aid into Ukraine. By providing early warning capabilities, the surveillance aircraft will play a crucial role in detecting and alerting against potential threats to the supply routes.
The E-7A Wedgetail, based on the Boeing 737-700 platform, boasts an advanced long-range surveillance radar system, enabling it to simultaneously track both airborne and maritime targets. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, this aircraft is well-suited to monitor and safeguard critical supply lines vital to Ukraine’s well-being.
It is important to note that the surveillance aircraft will operate within European airspace and will not enter Ukrainian, Russian, or Belarusian territory. This decision ensures the safety and effectiveness of the deployment, allowing the E-7A to fulfill its mission while maintaining a strategic distance from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The deployment of the E-7A Wedgetail involves a dedicated team of up to 100 crew and support personnel. Australia expresses its gratitude to the German Government for hosting the aircraft and providing support throughout the deployment period. This collaborative effort highlights the strength of the partnership between Australia and Germany in upholding the international rules-based order.
Australia’s decision to deploy the E-7A Wedgetail to Germany underscores its resolute support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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