The Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP, recently announced two significant defence industry contracts worth approximately $300 million which will secure hundreds of local jobs in the region.
Minister Pyne said both BAE Systems Australia and Raytheon Australia had signed contract extensions with Defence securing the jobs of hundreds of workers which would drive growth in the local economy.
“These are exciting times for Defence industry and deliver on the Turnbull Government’s commitment to growing Australian industry as outlined in the Defence White Paper,” Mr Pyne said.
“Valued at approximately $200m, I am pleased to announce that BAE Systems Australia has won a two year extension to support the Hawk Lead-In Fighter ensuring ongoing work for approximately 300 people at RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW and RAAF Base Pearce, WA.
Minister Pyne said he was also pleased to announce an extension to the Air Combat Training Services Support Contract for the ongoing sustainment and operation of the Air Combat Group’s Hornet, Super Hornet and Growler Aircrew Training Simulators Systems.
“This extension awarded to Raytheon Australia and its subcontractor Milskil, is valued at approximately $100m and brings together separate contracts for the management and execution of training and support services for Classic Hornet and Super Hornet platforms currently being undertaken by Raytheon Australia and Milskil,” Mr Pyne said.
According to RDA Hunter CEO, Todd Williams, these contracts will underpin the growth of the Hunter’s defence industry and provide opportunities for the high skill, high value jobs that the region needs to compete globally.
“We warmly welcome the Minister’s announcement of major contracts for Hunter based defence primes.”
“Our ME Program is contributing to a Hunter workforce that is STEM skilled and employable. Our ongoing partnerships with defence contractors like BAE Systems means that our high school graduates are job-ready – they have the specific STEM and non-technical skills that these companies require.”
“More defence contracts in our region is not only good for defence industry but cements the Hunter as a leader in advanced manufacturing and technology.” continued Mr Williams.