Australian Defence said its new $600 million contract extension with Boeing Defence Australia will create more than 350 local jobs in Queensland.
The five-year contract extension will oversee the sustainment and upgrade of the F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler Fleets for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
Under the agreement, Boeing will support the Super Hornet and Growler programs until 2030, ensuring the long-term retention of a highly skilled expert workforce at RAAF Base Amberley.
The project will hire workers from the Defence industry to oversee the engineering, maintenance, and management for the sustainment and upgrade of the fleets.
Over 90 per cent of the contract value is set to be spent in Australia, primarily in southeast Queensland.
The Air Combat and Electronic Attack Sustainment Contract with Boeing was first signed on 1 July 2016 for an initial period of five years.
This is the second extension for the contract, bringing the overall value to $1.2 billion.
“The Albanese Government knows the most valuable Defence asset we have are our people. That’s why we’re investing in over 350 highly skilled local jobs and delivering on our commitment to ensure Australia has a robust Defence industry,” said Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy.
“In a time of escalating global tensions, maintaining top-tier aircraft and a highly skilled local workforce is paramount. This contract extension fortifies our preparedness for any potential challenges.”
“A strong Defence industry is also crucial to protecting Australians and their interests, as well as contributing to regional stability.”
The extension comes as the EA-18G Growler Airborne Electronic capability reaches final operational capability, according to Australian Defence.
Operated by No. 6 Squadron at RAAF Base Amberley, the Airborne Electronic Attack capability is comprised of 12 EA-18G Growler aircraft, the ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System and the AGM-88 series of anti-radiation missiles.
