Australia releases Defence Science and Technology plan for implementing its Air Force Strategy to transform to fifth-generation Air Force

Australian Airforce is making investments into range of state-of-the-art surveillance, command-and-control and combat platforms. This includes introduction of advanced capabilities such as the F-35A Lightning II, EA-18G Growler, P-8A Poseidon, the MQ-4C Triton, and space systems including a space situational radar and space telescope. Moreover, Navy and Army are currently introducing transformational aerospace capabilities that include new helicopters, unmanned aerial systems, Landing Helicopter Dock ships and Air Warfare Destroyers, with all three services aiming to integrate these new systems and embrace carefully selected emerging technologies.

Despite the advantages offered by individual capabilities, the full benefit of these platforms will only be realised when they are integrated with the joint force and other enabling capabilities through disciplined design