Drone incursions surge at Australian military bases

The Australian government is facing scrutiny following a surge in unauthorized drone incursions at military installations. Recent reports indicate that multiple unmanned aircraft systems breached restricted airspace above RAAF Base Williamtown near Newcastle between July 11 and 13. The base is a critical facility housing Australia’s F-35 fighter jets and E-7A Wedgetail aircraft.

Data from the Department of Defence shows a significant increase in such incidents, with 147 incursions recorded in the 2024-25 financial year, up from 21 in 2022/23. While Industry and Innovation Minister Tim Ayres described the activity as “unacceptable,” “unsafe,” and “illegal,” he did not confirm whether the operators were amateur enthusiasts or foreign actors.

Opposition leaders have criticized the government's response. Shadow Minister Phillip Thompson called for an urgent investigation, noting that the scale of the activity—including reports of drone swarms—suggests a coordinated threat rather than accidental straying. He emphasized that the incursions pose a risk to both sensitive military equipment and the security of personnel.