A NEW ERA FOR NAVY AVIATION IS ON THE WAY

The Minister for Defence, the Hon. Joel Fitzgibbon MP, today reinforced the strategic importance of the Navy’s Fleet Air Arm at HMAS Albatross, and foreshadowed a substantial increase in infrastructure investment on the base following the release of the 2009 Defence White Paper.

Mr Fitzgibbon toured the base and met with aircrew and maintainers from 817 Squadron, who are planning for the impending retirement of the ageing fleet of six SK-50 Sea King helicopters, which will be replaced by six advanced new MRH-90 multi-role helicopters in 2011.

During his visit, Mr Fitzgibbon observed that construction had commenced on the building of dedicated new hangers and maintenance facilities ahead of the arrival of the first of the new MRH-90s.

“This $38 million investment will ensure that HMAS Albatross has first-class facilities to operate and maintain these advanced new MRH-90s, and the construction phase will also create new job opportunities in the Nowra and Shoalhaven region,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.

In recognition of the ongoing strategic importance of the Naval Air Station to Defence’s future capability needs, the Government will invest $130 million into upgrading base infrastructure under the Albatross Stage 3 Redevelopment Project, which will commence in 2010.

While at HMAS Albatross, the Minister also toured 816 Squadron and spoke with the aircrew and maintainers of the current fleet of 16 S-70B Seahawk helicopters about the Government’s plans to acquire a fleet of at least 24 new naval combat helicopters, as outlined in the 2009 Defence White Paper.

“The White Paper outlines the Government’s commitment to rectify the shortfalls in Navy’s current naval combat aviation as a matter of urgency.  These 24 new aircraft will boost Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities while also possessing potent air-launched torpedoes and anti-ship missiles,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.

“Albatross remains central to the Government’s plans to rebuild and revitalize Navy’s aviation capabilities after the difficult times that have fallen upon them in recent years.  Today is as much about recognising and thanking the men and women of the Navy’s Fleet Air Arm for their service, while reassuring them that they have a crucial role in our plans to build a stronger and more capable Defence Force for the 21^st century,” Mr Fitzgibbon concluded.

Media note:  Imagery is available at www.defence.gov.au/media/download.

Media contacts:

Dan Fankhauser (Joel Fitzgibbon):                     02 6277 7800 or 0439 442 617

Defence Media Liaison:                                       02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664