Multiple unidentified drones breached restricted airspace around RAAF Base Williamtown in New South Wales between 11 and 13 July, according to Australian media reports and the Australian Department of Defence.
The drones were reported over Williamtown and neighbouring Newcastle Airport, which share the same airfield. Williamtown is home to Australia’s F-35A fighter fleet and also operates E-7A Wedgetail airborne early warning and control aircraft and Hawk 127 and PC-21 trainer aircraft.
The Daily Telegraph, which first reported the incidents, said multiple uncrewed aircraft systems were confirmed in restricted airspace during the three-day period. The incidents were referred to the New South Wales Police Counter-UAS Unit.
Defence Minister Pat Conroy said on 10 August that the police investigation had been completed, but did not disclose its findings. He also declined to say whether the drone activity disrupted military or civilian flight operations or what counter-UAS measures were used.
“We have robust layered security measures to protect our personnel, our bases and our capabilities,” Conroy told ABC Newcastle.
Australia changed its Defence Regulations in 2025 to give defence personnel greater authority to seize, disable or destroy drones operating around defence facilities. Conroy said the government is also investing in technology to detect and defeat unmanned aircraft.
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Image: A C-27J Spartan from No 35 Squadron operates from RAAF Base Amberley – Australian Department of Defence
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