Canberra: Australia will deploy a long-range military reconnaissance aircraft to the Gulf to help safeguard civilians and strengthen regional airspace security, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced Tuesday.
Speaking at a news conference, Albanese said the government would send an E-7A Wedgetail aircraft along with supporting defence personnel for an initial four-week mission. The advanced radar surveillance plane will assist partners in monitoring and securing the airspace across the Gulf.
The deployment follows growing regional tensions and concerns about civilian safety. According to Albanese, the decision came after discussions with United Arab Emirates President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
“The first priority of my government is, and always will be, to keep Australians safe,” Albanese said.
He added that supporting regional partners also helps protect Australian nationals living across the Middle East. Officials estimate around 115,000 Australians currently reside in the region, including approximately 24,000 in the United Arab Emirates.
Meanwhile, Australia confirmed that it will supply advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles to the UAE after a formal request from Abu Dhabi.
Evacuation efforts continue as government clarifies military role
The Australian government also emphasized that its military support will remain defensive and will not involve offensive operations against Iran.
Albanese reiterated that Australia would not deploy ground troops to Iran and would limit its role to surveillance, defensive assistance, and evacuation support.
Authorities said about 2,600 Australians have already returned home from the Middle East. However, officials acknowledged that significant logistical challenges remain for citizens still seeking to leave the region.
Previously, Canberra deployed a heavy transport aircraft and a fuel tanker plane to assist evacuation efforts.
Last week, Albanese also revealed that Australian personnel were aboard a US submarine involved in the sinking of an Iranian naval vessel near Sri Lanka. He clarified that the personnel were participating in training under the AUKUS defence partnership and did not take part in the attack.
