Australia has announced a $966 million investment to enhance its maritime surveillance capabilities in the northern regions, which includes the acquisition of additional long-range drone aircraft and upgrades to the Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, as stated by Australia's Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy.

Specifically, the fleet of 14 Boeing Poseidon Maritime Patrol aircraft will undergo upgrades to improve their anti-submarine warfare, maritime strike, and intelligence collection capabilities. These aircraft have previously conducted patrols in the South China Sea and have also been deployed from a Japanese airbase to enforce United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions on North Korea, according to Reuters.

Furthermore, the MQ-4C Triton drone aircraft, developed in collaboration with the United States Navy, will be stationed in Australia's Northern Territory, which is strategically located close to Asia. These drones will be operated by a newly established squadron in the South Australia state. Minister Conroy emphasized that this additional Triton acquisition aligns with the priorities outlined in the Defence Strategic Review.

However, it's worth noting that a reliable report highlights that the latest budget from the US Department of Defense indicates that the Triton program is set to be terminated, with production coming to an end next year. This decision would leave the US Navy with only 22 Triton aircraft, falling significantly short of its earlier target of 70.

Former defence official Marcus Hellyer expressed concerns about the Australian government's decision to proceed with the Triton program, describing it as peculiar. Hellyer anticipates that the program is likely to exceed its initial cost estimates in both acquisition and long-term maintenance.