In contrast with earlier reports, Australia is still considering equipping its MQ-28 Ghost Bat drones with lethal payloads to support combat missions.
This follows local media reports that said the government had ruled out making its MQ-28 a “killer drone.”
Defense industry minister Pat Conroy told Breaking Defense that the plan is still underway, though they are focusing on installing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) payloads for now.
“We are initially concentrating on ISR capability, but we have not ruled out it having combat capability,” he said. “We are investigating the payload implications.”
Meanwhile, a spokesperson from Ghost Bat manufacturer Boeing has given the go-ahead for the proposed move, saying it is up to their customers what payloads the drone will carry and what missions it will fly.
The spokesperson also claimed that the MQ-28 is a flexible platform, making it highly adaptable to future systems.
Earlier Reports
Citing a government source, The Australian reported earlier this week that plans to arm the Ghost Bat with lethal payloads had been shelved after Boeing was eliminated from America’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft program.
It said the drone is instead being shifted to ISR roles.
That would mean the defense ministry would have fewer hurdles, as ISR payloads would not require “rules of engagement” while in operation.
About the Ghost Bat
The MQ-28 Ghost Bat is designed to complement and extend airborne military missions.
A “loyal wingman,” the drone will safeguard and support Australia’s most valuable combat aircraft, such as Joint Strike Fighters and Super Hornets.
It can fly at subsonic speeds and reach distances of more than 2,000 nautical miles (2,301 miles/3,704 kilometers).
