Australian Defence officials report drone incursions at Williamtown RAAF Base

Internal Department of Defence documents released under freedom of information laws reveal that multiple confirmed drone incursions occurred over the RAAF Williamtown F-35 fighter base between July 11 and 13.

Despite the activation of a Base Wide Alert System (BWAS), commanders did not shoot down or disable the drones because they reportedly did not feel they possessed the lawful authority to do so. During a Senate estimates hearing, officials confirmed that the unauthorized unmanned aerial system (UAS) activity prompted high-importance warnings to unit commanders.

Reports indicate that personnel were instructed to follow emergency procedures, including closing blinds, while the drones were overhead. Air Marshal Stephen Chappell noted that the department requires a more robust method of protecting personnel than current lockdown procedures provide.