Australia's third MQ-4C Triton, also known as 'AUS3', on its first test flight at Northrop Grumman’s Palmdale, California, facility on 29 October 2024. Photo supplied by Northrop Grumman.

Third Aussie Triton readies for delivery

07/02/2025 Posted by Brian Hartigan 975 Views 0 Comments MQ-4C Triton

Northrop Grumman has successfully completed testing of Australia’s third MQ-4C Triton at its Palmdale, California, facility.

FILE PHOTO: Australia’s third MQ-4C Triton, also known as ‘AUS3’, on its first test flight at Northrop Grumman’s Palmdale, California, facility on 29 October 2024. Photo supplied by Northrop Grumman.

The company is now preparing to ferry the aircraft to Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland, where it will join Australia’s second Triton for calibration testing before delivery of both aircraft to the Royal Australian Air Force.

Robust flight testing and validation of these uncrewed high-altitude, long endurance aircraft are key milestones ahead of delivery to Australia later this year.

Australia’s air force (sic) is collaborating with Northrop Grumman and the US Navy to field the most advanced maritime intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting capability available today.