• An F/A-18 Hornet from the United States Marine Corps taxis toward the airstrip to participate in a mission during Exercise Pitch Black 2018. Defence
    An F/A-18 Hornet from the United States Marine Corps taxis toward the airstrip to participate in a mission during Exercise Pitch Black 2018. Defence
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NT-owned and operated construction business Sunbuild has been awarded a US$1.6 million contract by the US Government to deliver an aircraft maintenance support facility at RAAF Base Darwin as part of the Force Posture Initiatives.

In a statement, Minister for Defence Marise Payne said the contract is testament to Australian industry and Australia's relationship with the US.

"This announcement highlights the competitiveness of Australian industry and demonstrates its ability to deliver projects to the world's most technically advanced armed forces," Minister for Defence Marise Payne said.

“The Force Posture Initiatives are an important part of the Australia-US defence relationship. They provide important combined training opportunities which improve our ability to work together to increase stability in the region and respond to crises."

Minister Payne also highlighted the potential opportunities available to Australian companies through American investments in overseas force structures.

"Construction projects for US Force Posture Initiatives will be conducted over the next 10 years, providing opportunities for many sectors including construction, professional services, maintenance and logistics," Minister Payne said. "There will be opportunities in sub-contracting, maintenance and supply arrangements that will benefit local suppliers."

Senator for the NT Nigel Scullion said that to support the growing initiatives, Australia and the US  would invest around US$2 billion into existing Defence infrastructure and facilities in the Territory.

Infrastructure and facility development will be concentrated at Robertson Barracks and RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal, as well as NT training areas and ranges.

“This is great news for local suppliers and businesses in the Territory,” Senator Scullion said.

“This announcement shows that local suppliers will be successful if they meet requirements and can demonstrate value for money.”

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