2 publishers · first seen Thu, 29 Oct 2026 08:19 UTC · updated Thu, 29 Oct 2026 12:38 UTC
Australia is considering acquiring missile interceptors developed for Israel’s Iron Dome as part of plans to establish a ground-based air defence system by the early 2030s, officials told a parliamentary committee on Thursday. The options under review include the US Patriot missile defence system and interceptors made by Israeli company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, jointly manufactured with US firm Raytheon.
Discussions follow lessons from warfare in Ukraine and the Middle East, with a competitive selection process expected to conclude next year after the Talisman Sabre war game in 2027. Truck-mounted medium-range interceptors were tested by the US Marines in Guam in June during a regional exercise in which Australia also took part. A rise in drone incursions at defence bases, from 19 incidents in 2022 to 204 last year, has raised security concerns. Government minister Murray Watt said the government seeks the most suitable military technology, while Air Marshal Robert Chipman said recommendations will be made next year.
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