Australian E-7A Aircraft Arrives in Poland to Boost NATO Air Ops, Aid Ukraine
Australia has deployed one of its most advanced airborne surveillance platforms, the E-7A Wedgetail, to Poland, bolstering NATO’s eastern air defense posture and enhancing intelligence sharing with Ukraine amid continued Russian missile and drone attacks.
The Gaze reports this, referring to an announcement made by Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) aircraft arrived at the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask, where it will operate as part of NATO’s integrated air and missile defense system.
According to Poland’s Ministry of Defense, the Wedgetail will play a key role in coordinating air operations along the Alliance’s eastern flank.
Beyond NATO operations, the aircraft will also provide real-time situational awareness and reconnaissance support to Ukraine.
Defense officials say its role includes detecting, tracking, and relaying data on Russian aerial threats – capabilities critical for improving Ukraine’s responsiveness during large-scale attacks involving missiles and Shahed drones.
The E-7A platform, developed under Australia’s Wedgetail program, is equipped with a powerful active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar that allows for rapid, high-precision target identification.
Unlike traditional airborne early warning systems that rely on rotating radar domes, the Wedgetail’s fixed phased array offers a 360-degree view with minimal latency.
Designed to serve as an airborne command-and-control center, the Wedgetail combines long-range radar, advanced communications, and battle management tools. These allow allied forces to monitor contested airspace, direct fighter aircraft, and coordinate complex intercept operations.
Read more on The Gaze: What Specific Military Assistance Does Ukraine Need From Partners?