Multiple drones were detected flying over a restricted military airspace in Australia, with defence bosses having no idea who is responsible. 

The ‘Unmanned Aircraft Systems’ were seen hovering over tactical fighter jet defence hub, Williamtown RAAF base, between July 11 to 13. 

Commanders were instructed to close window blinds to prevent sensitive information from being observed. 

The Australian Defence Force are still trying to identify who was operating them and the reason behind the breach. 

The NSW Police Counter-UAS Unit is believed to be investigating why anti-drone weaponry wasn’t used to take down the aircraft. 

The incident is particularly concerning given that Williamtown RAAF base is home to some of the nation’s most sophisticated military aircraft, including F-35A Joint Strike Fighters and the E-7A Wedgetail.

A Defence spokesman told The Daily Telegraph it was aware of the ‘uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) operating in the vicinity of Newcastle Airport and RAAF Base Williamtown’. 

‘Defence employs robust, layered security measures to protect its personnel, establishments and capability,’ he said. 

Multiple drones have been detected flying over a restricted military airspace in Australia, with defence bosses having no idea who ordered or operated them

‘For operational security reasons, Defence does not comment on specific arrangements or measures in place at its establishments.’

Australian Strategic Policy Institute national security director Dr John Coyne said the incident highlighted the need for a ‘significant investigation’. 

‘We’re playing catch up in terms of matching our security posture to the geopolitical environment we now face,’ he said. 

‘The fact that (drones) are able to be flown over and into our major bases is a significant problem and security shortfall.’ 

Dr Coyne said anti-drone technology should be positioned at military facilities most in need of protection. 

‘In the interim, what we can do is (be) looking at what is the vulnerability that allowed to occur, was it a capability shortfall in terms of detection and intervention?’ he said.

‘Was it legal shortfall in terms of the deployment of capabilities, or was it simply that the anti-drone capabilities weren’t at a location where they could be used?’ 

Shadow Defence Personnel spokesman Phillip Thompson questioned whether Australia was capable of protecting its critical military assets from emerging threats. 

The ‘Unmanned Aircraft Systems’ were seen hovering over tactical fighter jet defence hub, Williamtown RAAF base, between July 11 to 13

‘Confirmation that unauthorised drones were able to operate over Australia’s premier fighter base is deeply concerning and demands an immediate explanation from the Albanese Government,’ he said. 

‘The fact that drones were reportedly able to operate over the base on multiple nights raises serious concerns about the protection of these nationally significant assets.

‘If hostile actors can operate drones over one of Australia’s most important air bases without being intercepted, Australians have every right to ask whether Defence has the counter-drone capabilities necessary to protect our most valuable assets.’

Mr Thompson also said breaches like these could help enemies identify weaknesses in the country’s defences.

‘Potential adversaries are watching and learning – every successful incursion provides an opportunity to understand our vulnerabilities.’