Exercise Carlsbad has wrapped up at Base Tindal in Australia’s Northern Territory, marking a milestone for the Royal Australian Air Force with the first-ever deployment of the MQ-28A Ghost Bat outside its traditional base at the Woomera Training Area.
The exercise tested how the drone system performs in unfamiliar environments, covering logistical movement, technical system checks, and operational readiness. The MQ-28A was transported from the Australian International Air Show to Tindal aboard a C-17 Globemaster aircraft.
As part of an ongoing series of tests planned for this year, the trial is designed to enhance and validate the capabilities of the Ghost Bat. Built in collaboration with Boeing Defence Australia, the MQ-28A is an advanced uncrewed aircraft intended to support manned platforms in combat roles by improving mission flexibility, threat detection, and overall survivability.
This advancement strengthens Australia’s air defense capabilities while contributing to the country’s broader strategic goals.
