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Australia deploys surveillance aircraft, missiles to Gulf amid escalating Iran tensions

Australia deploys surveillance aircraft, missiles to Gulf amid escalating Iran tensions

 

By The South Asia Times

 

CANBERRA - Australia announced it will deploy a Boeing E-7A Wedgetail long-range surveillance aircraft and supply advanced air-to-air missiles to the United Arab Emirates as Iran’s reprisal attacks continue to escalate across the Middle East, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters, Albanese described the unfolding conflict as unprecedented in scale and intensity, affecting twelve countries from Cyprus to the Gulf. He highlighted that the UAE alone has been forced to intercept over 1,500 rockets and drones launched by Iran in retaliation for U.S.-Israeli strikes.

 

“Our first priority is to keep Australians safe,” Albanese said, noting more than 20,000 Australians reside in the UAE and roughly 115,000 in the broader Middle East. “Helping Australians also means assisting the UAE and other Gulf nations to defend themselves against unprovoked attacks.”

 

The Wedgetail aircraft, along with supporting Australian Defence Force personnel, will be deployed for an initial four weeks to provide long-range reconnaissance and enhance regional airspace security. In addition, Australia will supply medium-range missiles to the UAE in response to requests from Gulf partners.

 

Albanese emphasized that Australia is not taking offensive action against Iran and will not deploy troops on Iranian soil. Australian consular teams have already helped over 2,600 citizens return home, while ongoing efforts continue to assist those still in the region.

 

“Those offered the opportunity to return to Australia should take it,” he urged, highlighting the government’s priority to protect its citizens amid the escalating conflict.

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