Reformed No.9 Squadron to Fly Triton Drones

Newsroom

19/06/2023

The RAAF’s recently reformed No. 9 Squadron is preparing to fly MQ-4C Triton drones when they arrive next year.

Australia will receive up to seven of the Northrop Grumman surveillance aircraft, which can uniquely travel for up to 24 hours at a time.

No. 9 Squadron was originally formed in 1939 as a fleet cooperation unit working with seaplanes and served during World War II in the Mediterranean Sea, Indian and Pacific Oceans, receiving 12 battle honours before being disbanded in 1944.

It was reformed in 1962 with personnel deployed as helicopter squadron in active service during the Vietnam War, before being disbanded again in 1989.

Its third incarnation will see the squadron fly the Triton from RAAF Base Edinburgh and be known as No. 92 Wing Surveillance and Response Group.

Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Rob Chipman said the re-establishment of No. 9 Squadron on 11 June this year marked the beginning of a new era in the squadron’s distinguished history.

“9 Squadron has played an incredibly important role in the Royal Australian Air Force, serving during critical times for Australia’s security,” AIRMSHL Chipman said.

“I’m proud to see the squadron return to service in 2023.”