The US State Department has approved a potential Baseline 2 upgrade for Australia’s MC-55A Peregrine intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare (ISREW) aircraft. The upgrade package includes equipment and services to support ongoing maintenance, covering both major and minor modifications.
Australia’s request also encompasses spare parts, technical support, logistics assistance, and other related elements to ensure the operational readiness of the MC-55A fleet. The proposed Foreign Military Sale is valued at an estimated $404 million and awaits approval from the US Congress before proceeding.
According to the Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the upgrade will enhance Australia’s ability to sustain and operate its MC-55A aircraft effectively, boosting its capacity for air operations while also supporting US missions in the Indo-Pacific region.
Texas-based L3Harris has been identified as the principal contractor for the program. The agency further noted that no offset agreements are planned as part of this sale.
