Australia’s Department of Home Affairs has awarded a multi-year contract to US-based aerospace company Metrea to provide the next generation of aerial surveillance for the Australian Border Force (ABF). The announcement, made on 2 June 2026, will see Metrea supply eight Beechcraft King Air turboprops and three long-range Bombardier Global 6500 jets equipped with state-of-the-art radar, optical sensors and secure communications suites. The new fleet will replace the Dash 8 aircraft currently operated by Leidos Australia and will deliver both short- and long-range patrol capability over Australia’s vast northern maritime approaches. Although the aircraft will not enter service until 1 January 2028, transition planning is already under way to avoid surveillance gaps during the hand-over period. For companies that rely on predictable supply chains—including resources, agribusiness and international freight forwarders—the upgrade promises quicker detection of people-smuggling ventures and illegal fishing, reducing the likelihood of sudden border closures or import-control spikes. It also underscores Canberra’s willingness to invest in high-end technology to enforce immigration law and protect critical offshore energy infrastructure. Border-security analysts note that awarding the contract to a foreign prime signals the government’s appetite for international partnerships where specialist capabilities are unavailable domestically. Defence-industry suppliers have been invited to tender for sensor integration and through-life support, creating downstream opportunities for Australian SMEs in Adelaide, Cairns and Darwin where the aircraft will be based.
![Australian Border Force signs new aerial-surveillance deal to bolster maritime border security]()
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Businesses sending personnel to remote northern projects should monitor ABF advice on restricted zones during the aircraft test-and-evaluation phase, expected to begin in late 2027.
Whether you’re an aviation contractor flying in technicians or a resources company moving crews to offshore rigs, having the correct travel documents in hand is vital. VisaHQ can streamline the process with fast, online visa and eTA services for Australia, ensuring your personnel clear immigration without delays that could disrupt project timelines. Find out how at https://www.visahq.com/australia/
Businesses sending personnel to remote northern projects should monitor ABF advice on restricted zones during the aircraft test-and-evaluation phase, expected to begin in late 2027.
