Australia announced defensive military assistance to Gulf states on March 9, 2026, deploying an E-7A Wedgetail surveillance aircraft and supplying advanced air-to-air missiles to the UAE amid escalating Iranian attacks.
Protecting 115,000 Australians in High-Risk Zone
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese cited threats to 115,000 Australians in the Middle East—including 24,000 in UAE—as the primary driver, with 85 ADF personnel deploying for four weeks to secure airspace after UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed’s request. No ground troops or offensive operations against Iran authorized.
Response to Iran’s Unprecedented Barrage
UAE intercepted 1,500+ rockets/drones since US-Israel strikes began; Wedgetail provides long-range reconnaissance echoing Ukraine support, paired with AMRAAM missiles enhancing collective self-defense across 12 targeted nations.
Political Backlash from Greens
Opposition Greens decried entanglement in “Trump’s war,” citing Iraq/Afghanistan precedents and questioning mission limits despite Labor’s defensive framing.
