Australia selects MQ-9 Reaper
The General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-ASI) MQ-9 Reaper has been selected for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) under Project Air 7003 Phase 1, Minister for Defence Christopher Pyne and Minister for Defence Industry Steven Ciobo announced on 16 November.
Australia opted for an acquisition via the foreign military sales avenue rather than a competitive tender. Between 12 and 16 aircraft are expected to be procured.
Israel Aerospace Industries had attempted to lure Australia away from the Reaper with its Heron TP, but this was always going to be a difficult task. In the end, it appears there was
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