BAE Systems wins $208 million Royal Australian Navy support contract

BAE Systems has confirmed it will establish a new world-class aviation maintenance facility in Nowra, NSW, after securing the prime contract to support the Royal Australian Navy’s S-70B-2 Seahawk helicopter fleet.

The seven-year performance based contract, with extension options is worth approximately A$208 million. It will sustain 130 highly skilled aviation technical and engineering jobs in Nowra.

The scope of contract work includes deeper maintenance on up to 16 Seahawk helicopters, engineering services, logistic support services, technical training for Royal Australian Navy personnel and specialised equipment and workshop support activities for Navy Aviation.

Under the agreement, BAE Systems will move its existing operations from HMAS Albatross to the adjacent Albatross Aviation Technology Park and begin work on a purpose-built maintenance and support facility to be known as the Nowra Helicopter Support Centre. 

The new facility is due for completion early 2011and will enable BAE Systems Australia to expand its commitment to Navy Aviation and the Shoalhaven region of NSW.

BAE Systems Australia formed an industry alliance known as the Seahawk Support Team to bid for the new contract which is due to commence in April 2010.

The team includes Raytheon Australia, Rosebank Engineering, Asia Pacific Aerospace, Air Affairs, AgustaWestland and Scientific Management Associates.

Mike Shaw, General Manager of Aviation Maintenance and Support Services, said BAE Systems has been providing deeper maintenance support for Navy helicopters out of Nowra since 1993.

“This contract award reflects the commitment BAE Systems has shown over the past 16 years in providing and maintaining the highest level of quality service to Navy Aviation,” Mr Shaw said.

“However, we are not resting on our laurels. We are working with Navy and the Defence Materiel Organisation as part of the Strategic Reform Program to realise ongoing savings and efficiencies across the Seahawk and other military helicopter fleets that we help to sustain.”

“On a personal level, I am delighted that this long term contract provides security and ongoing opportunities for our Nowra workforce and will stimulate the growth of skilled aviation jobs in the region.”