Australia deploys spy plane and missiles to Middle East
- 2 hours ago
- 1 min read
Australia will deploy a high-tech surveillance aircraft and advanced missiles to the Middle East as regional tensions continue to rise.
Anthony Albanese confirmed that an Boeing E‑7A Wedgetail aircraft will be sent to the region along with medium-range air-to-air missiles. The move is aimed at helping protect civilian infrastructure and Australians living in the area.
About 85 Australian Defence Force personnel will accompany the aircraft, which will initially be deployed for four weeks, according to Richard Marles.
The Wedgetail is one of the world’s most advanced airborne command and surveillance platforms. It can track threats, coordinate communications and provide early warning of missile or drone attacks.
Officials say the deployment is defensive only, stressing that Australia will not send troops into Iran or take part in offensive military operations.
The decision comes as Iranian missile and drone attacks have targeted several Gulf nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
Albanese said the deployment also helps safeguard the roughly 115,000 Australians currently across the Middle East.
Meanwhile, more Australians are returning home. Over 2,600 people have already left the region on commercial flights, according to Penny Wong.
Authorities are also assisting travellers still stranded in some areas. Bus transport has been arranged for Australians in Kuwait, where the airport is closed, while similar arrangements are being organised for those in Bahrain.
Source : www.indailysa.com.au
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