Opinion: How the F-35 can become an elevated sensor

The fifth-generation fighter’s lesser-known sensor suite will enhance the RAAF’s ISR capabilities

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) expects to achieve full operational capability (FOC) with its fleet of Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II combat aircraft in late 2023. The FOC milestone will see three operational squadrons and one training squadron fully established and equipped as well as all base, training and sustainment facilities completed.

While the RAAF is building up its air combat force with the F-35A, it’s also fielding an increasingly capable fleet of stand-off intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems. These systems will be vital in helping the Australian Defence Force (ADF) secure its vast borders by providing stand-off ISR support for ground, maritime, and air combat elements. The E-7A Wedgetail and P-8A Poseidon are already in service and proving to be world-class capabilities. These will be joined from 2024 by the MC-55A Peregrine SIGNT/ELINT aircraft, and the uncrewed MQ-4C Triton maritime ISR system.