The Explorer 500T and 750T are developments of the AEAR Explorer 350 which was designed and built in Western Australia by Aeronautical Engineers Australia Research Pty Ltd and which when first completed and registered became VH-OKA (c/n 350-001) on 15 December 1997.

The Explorer was an Australian entry into the light utility transport market, the prototype Explorer 350R being designed by Australian Aeronautical Engineers (AEA) Pty Ltd at Jandakot, WA.