Wedgetail airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft
The Royal Australian Air Force Wedgetail airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft will begin entering service in 2009. Six Boeing 737 NGs are currently
being modified to accommodate sophisticated mission systems and radars
that will increase Australia's surveillance and air combat capability, provide air defence support for our naval fleet, and assist in civil operations such as border protection and search and rescue.
The Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft will be operated by No 2 Squadron from RAAF Base Williamtown, near Newcastle.
The first two Wedgetails are being modified in the United States of America, with the remaining four being modified at RAAF Base Amberley, near Brisbane.
Related links
- Defence Material Organisation Wedgetail project (Project Air 5077)
- Defence Material Organisation What is Airborne Early Warning and Control?
- Boeing 737 NG Wedgetail AEW&C
- RAAF Museum Wedgetail history
| Manufacturer | Boeing |
|---|---|
| Role | Airborne early warning and control |
| Crew | Pilot, co-pilot and airborne electronics analysts and mission specialists (10 mission consoles) |
| Engine | Two CFM International CFM56-7 turbofans (118.4kN (27,300 lb) thrust each) |
| Airframe | Length 33.6 m, height 12.6 m |
| Wingspan | 34.3 m |
| Weight | Maximum take-off weight 77,565 kg, maximum landing weight 60,782 kg |
| Speed | Maximum 870 km/h, cruise 760 km/h |
| Endurance | 10 hours (without air-to-air refuelling) |
| Ceiling | 12,500 m (41,000 feet) |
| Equipment |
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