The US Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) has chosen AECOM to construct an aircraft parking apron and supporting facilities at RAAF Base Darwin under the US Force Posture Initiative (FPI). The firm-fixed priced contract is worth up to US$24 million and is expected to be completed in 2019.
The contract is the first of many to be delivered in Australia under the FPI. The US will be investing more than US$1.5 billion into existing defence infrastructure and facilities in the NT to support the rotational US Marine Corp contingent.
This is part of an overall investment package estimated around US$6.12 billion over the next 10 years providing opportunities for sectors including construction, professional services, maintenance and logistics to support the eventually 2,500 strong Marine force in the north.
RAAF Tindal will be receiving a series of upgrades in support of the US FPI. Image credit - Defence
AECOM has partnered with Fulton Hogan to deliver this project. It will be the first project built on Australian shores by the US since World War II.
The scope of work includes four additional airfield-rated concrete, paved parking spots with asphalt shoulders; installation of four additional Type III fuel hydrant pits connected to existing fuel lines; and relocation of existing fuel isolation valve pits.
Additional work includes the installation of airfield ground lighting, stormwater collection and treatment system, jet blast deflectors and construction of an asphalt access drive.