Australia Extends Wedgetail Surveillance Plane Deployment in Middle East

Anthony Albanese confirmed the extension but did not say how long the mission would continue for.

A Royal Australian Air Force E-7A Wedgetail aircraft from No 2 Squadron, departs RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW in Australia on March 10, 2026. Courtesy of the Australian Department of Defence

Despite the ongoing ceasefire, Australia will extend the deployment of its E-7A Wedgetail surveillance aircraft and up to 85 Australian Defence Force personnel in the Middle East beyond its initial four-week commitment.

“The Wedgetail will be staying in the region for a period of time,” Prime Minister Albanese said at a press conference in Brisbane on April 9.