BAE Systems Australia welcomed an announcement by the Federal Government for the approval of a Facility Services Deed that underpins the expansion of the Company’s F-35 sustainment operations at Williamtown in the Hunter Valley.
The Deed, valued at more than $100 million, will enable BAE Systems to meet projected service and maintenance demand for the Royal Australian Air Force’s F-35 Lightning II fleet.
The construction of the additional bays in BAE Systems’ existing South Hangar facility at Williamtown will provide opportunities for local jobs, local suppliers and subcontractors.
“We welcome the Commonwealth’s announcement and look forward to working alongside the Royal Australian Air Force and our industry partners to deliver this vital capability. Our established team has deep knowledge of the F-35 and will deliver a proven and collaborative approach that focuses on dependable delivery today and innovative ways of sustaining the F-35 fleet into the future. This is another example of how BAE Systems is helping to deliver the next generation of air capability and building local industry to help keep Australia secure.”
BAE Systems Australia Managing Director Defence Delivery, Andrew Gresham
All 72 F-35 jets will be sustained and upgraded at Williamtown over the next three decades, supporting 750 jobs directly and indirectly across Australia by 2025. Fifty six F-35A Lightning II jets have been accepted by Australia to date with the full fleet on track to be delivered by the end of 2023.
