A$ 150M to Keep Supporting RAAF Hawk Aircraft, 2011-2013
Jul 10, 2011 16:26 UTC
In July 2011, the Australian government announced a 2-year, A$150 million (about $161 million) extension of the existing contract with BAE Systems Australia, to provide support for the RAAF’s Hawk 127 Lead-In-Fighter Trainers, plus accompanying full simulators (2) and computer training systems. The 33 Hawk Mk.127s are based at RAAF Williamtown near Newcastle in the SE, and RAAF Pearce near Perth in Western Australia. They provide the last stage of training before pilots graduate to Australia’s F/A-18A/B Hornet and F/A-18F Super Hornet fighters.
As part of their Strategic Reform savings program, Australia’s DoD and BAE have arranged for more than 10% in savings over the extension’s life, via a revised maintenance strategy and overhaul program changes. BAE Systems Australia employs 180 people to support the aircraft, and has been providing that support since 2000. Australia DoD.
