Australia's fleet of E-7 Wedgetail surveillance aircraft is set for replacement, according to Defence planning documents. The Wedgetail, based on the Boeing 737-700, is considered one of the world's most advanced airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft.
Funding for the replacement will be allocated under Defence's new 10-year Integrated Investment Program, expected to be released in 2026. Analysts suggest options could include upgraded E-7 variants or drone-based surveillance systems.
The Royal Australian Air Force currently operates six E-7 Wedgetails, which entered service between 2009 and 2012. The aircraft provide critical surveillance, battle management, and command and control capabilities.
Defence officials have not specified a timeline for the replacement, but the Wedgetail fleet is expected to reach the end of its service life in the late 2030s. The decision reflects ongoing efforts to modernise Australia's defence capabilities amid evolving regional security challenges.
