RAAF Operation Kudu
Article by Beau Ellis
Images by Australian Defence Force
The Royal Australian Air Force’s No. 2 Squadron has successfully completed its deployment to Europe under Operation Kudu, providing airborne early warning and control support as part of Australia’s contribution to the international effort assisting Ukraine. Operating from Ramstein Air Base in Germany, the deployment marked one of the RAAF’s most significant overseas missions in recent years, showcasing the capability and versatility of the E-7A Wedgetail and the professionalism of its aircrew and support personnel.
The E-7A Wedgetail detachment formed the airborne surveillance element of Operation Kudu. For the RAAF, the Wedgetail’s deployment represented a tangible commitment to the collective security of Europe, reinforcing Australia’s role as a reliable and capable partner nation. The mission saw around 100 personnel from No. 2 Squadron and supporting units deployed to Germany for six months, operating the E-7A in close coordination with NATO allies.
During the deployment, the Wedgetail conducted regular surveillance and early warning sorties across Eastern Europe. Flying within NATO controlled airspace, the aircraft’s advanced MESA (Multi-role Electronically Scanned Array) radar provided wide area air picture coverage, identifying and tracking aircraft movements, and relaying critical information to allied command centers in real time. These missions supported the safe transit of humanitarian and military aid into Ukraine and contributed to the broader situational awareness of NATO forces operating in the region.
Each mission typically lasted around five hours, with the Wedgetail operating in coordination with NATO Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft and other surveillance assets. The deployment tested the RAAF’s interoperability in a multinational environment, with No. 2 Squadron crews integrating seamlessly into NATO communication networks and data sharing systems. Despite operating far from home, the Australian detachment maintained high sortie rates and reliability throughout the rotation, earning praise from partner forces for their professionalism and efficiency.
For No. 2 Squadron, the deployment also provided valuable operational experience. Working from Ramstein Air Base, the heart of NATO’s European air operations gave Australian aircrew exposure to complex, high tempo airspace management and joint coordination with multiple allied platforms. The mission further strengthened relationships with partner air forces and demonstrated the flexibility of the E-7A Wedgetail in supporting coalition operations.
Operation Kudu stands as a clear example of Australia’s contribution to global security, combining advanced technology, skilled personnel, and international collaboration. For No. 2 Squadron, it was another milestone in a proud operational history proving once again that the RAAF’s eyes in the sky remain among the most capable in the world.
