On 19 August 2025, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and the United States Air Force (USAF) conducted live missile firings and advanced target trials during Exercise Archer 2025, held off the coast of New South Wales. The drills brought together naval, air, and command assets from both nations, showcasing their ability to conduct complex integrated defence operations.
From Williamtown and Amberley air bases, the RAAF deployed F-35A Lightning II, F/A-18F Super Hornet, and EA-18G Growler aircraft, which carried out live-fire strikes against drones launched by the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). The trials were supported by QinetiQ Air Affairs and coordinated using an integrated system linking a RAAF E-7A Wedgetail with a RAN destroyer and MH-60R Seahawk helicopter. A KC-30A tanker provided air-to-air refuelling for participating fighter jets.
The United States played a central role through specialist weapons load teams from the USAF 53rd Wing, safety officers, and technical experts from the F-35 United Operational Test Team, who assisted with weapons employment and outcome analysis. The US Navy’s Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division also contributed by supporting the launch of BQM-74E subsonic aerial targets, marking a step toward future integration of the BQM-177i.
Air Commodore Peter Robinson, Commander of Air Combat Group, highlighted that the drills tested operational integration, weapons employment, and interoperability between the RAAF, RAN, US forces, and industry partners in a controlled environment.
The exercise validated the performance of key aircraft: the F-35A’s stealth and sensor fusion, the Super Hornet’s multirole versatility, and the Growler’s electronic warfare capabilities. Supporting assets like the Wedgetail and KC-30A extended endurance and command capabilities, offering a layered defence approach that combines stealth, firepower, and electronic attack.
By training against drones and subsonic aerial targets, both nations prepared for modern conflict scenarios involving cruise missiles, swarming drones, and multi-domain threats. The successful execution of Exercise Archer 2025 reinforced Australia’s readiness, US–Australian interoperability, and regional deterrence posture in the face of emerging security challenges.
