- The live-fire test, called Taipan Strike 26, took place at Australia’s Woomera Test Range and involved the U.S. Navy
- A CEA-built radar tracked the target while virtualized Aegis handled command and control from a small expeditionary setup
- The prototype draws on the Aegis baseline built for Hunter-class frigates and Hobart-class destroyers
Lockheed Martin has supported a live-fire test of a prototype medium-range ground-based air defense system, or MRGBAD, in Australia. The demonstration, called Taipan Strike 26, was held at the Woomera Test Range and included the U.S. Navy, the company said Wednesday.
The system remains in the developmental stage. Lockheed Martin framed the event as groundwork for further integration.
What Happened During Taipan Strike 26?
A radar built by CEA and operated by the Australian Defence Force detected and tracked a representative threat. Virtualized Aegis Weapons System capabilities handled command and control and were deployed in what the company described as a small-scale expeditionary form factor. Aegis then initialized a mobile ground-based launcher to engage the target.
How Does the Prototype Draw on Australia’s Naval Programs?
The demonstration used the Aegis baseline developed for the Hunter-class frigate program and the Hobart-class destroyer modernization effort. Jeremy King, chief executive of Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand, said the prototype relies on existing weapons, launchers, and command-and-control systems and can fire any weapon currently fielded on the Hobart class or planned for the Hunter class.
“A medium range ground-based air defence platform will propel the ADF from point defence to a network integrated, medium range deterrent that will fundamentally enhance our operational flexibility, deterrence posture and coalition interoperability,” he added.
What Comes Next for MRGBAD?
Lockheed Martin Australia serves as the strategic partner for the ADF’s AIR6500 Joint Air Battle Management System. The company said it is positioned to fold future MRGBAD capabilities into Australia’s integrated air and missile defense architecture.
“This prototype demonstration lays the groundwork for air defence modernisation, providing decision-makers with more time to respond and increasing the effectiveness of coordinated air and missile defence systems,” said Joe DePietro, vice president and general manager of mission integration command and control at Lockheed Martin.
