Australian Border Force to Boost Maritime Surveillance Capability with New Global 6500 Aircraft

The Australian Border Force (ABF) is set to significantly enhance its maritime surveillance capabilities through the introduction of three Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft, which will be operated by defence services provider Metrea as part of the agency’s aerial surveillance programme.

The new aircraft will strengthen the ABF’s ability to monitor Australia's vast maritime approaches, support border security operations and protect the nation's extensive coastline. With one of the world's largest maritime jurisdictions, Australia relies heavily on advanced airborne surveillance assets to detect illegal fishing, people smuggling, narcotics trafficking and other activities that threaten national security.

The Global 6500 brings a substantial leap in capability, offering exceptional range, endurance and speed. These attributes will allow the aircraft to conduct extended patrols over remote oceanic areas while maintaining rapid response capability when required.

Operated by Metrea, the aircraft will be equipped for specialised maritime surveillance missions, providing enhanced situational awareness across Australia's northern approaches and surrounding waters. The programme represents a significant investment in modern surveillance technology and reflects the growing importance of persistent airborne monitoring in safeguarding Australia's borders.

The acquisition also marks the introduction of Bombardier's Global platform into the Australian government service in a dedicated special mission configuration. The type has already established a strong reputation internationally, supporting intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), maritime patrol and airborne early warning missions around the world.

Australia's challenging geography makes long-range surveillance platforms particularly valuable. The Global 6500's ability to cover vast distances without refuelling will enable the ABF to maintain a more effective presence across remote regions where maritime activity can be difficult to monitor.

The programme further strengthens Australia's broader maritime security network, complementing existing surveillance assets and supporting cooperation between the Australian Border Force, Defence Force and other government agencies responsible for national security and border protection.

As regional maritime challenges continue to evolve, the introduction of the Global 6500 fleet will provide the Australian Border Force with a modern and highly capable tool to ensure the security of Australia's borders and maritime interests well into the future.