BAE Systems Australia has started providing operational maintenance to the Royal Australian Air Force’s Hawk 127 Lead-In Fighter fleet.
The Company is directly supporting the training of Australia’s next combat aircrew, delivering all Hawk maintenance support on the flight line at RAAF Bases Williamtown and Pearce. This work has created 68 jobs at Williamtown, NSW, and 48 at Pearce, WA.
“For over 15 years, our Company has demonstrated its deeper maintenance know-how for the nation’s fast jet training capability," BAE Systems Australia Aerospace Director Steve Drury said. "Now, BAE Systems is the total sustainment provider for the Hawk fleet, managing both deeper and operational maintenance.”
Drury said the company had expanded skills and expertise to deliver this combined sustainment role – hiring new aircraft technicians, team leaders and maintenance support staff.
"We look forward to growing our enduring partnership with the RAAF to ensure Australia’s combat pilots continue to receive the best training possible,” he said.
Under the new arrangement, BAE Systems is responsible for aircraft launch and recovery, rectifications, life support, stores and mission equipment, on-site management support and deployed operations.
Operational maintenance was previously provided by the RAAF’s 76 and 79 Squadrons. Transition to the new arrangement started in October 2015 to ensure a seamless change.