$76M UPGRADE TO ORIONS’

electronic SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM

Defence and BAE Systems Australia have signed a contract worth A$76.1 million for an upgrade to the Electronic Surveillance System (ESM) installed on the AP-3C Orion Aircraft.

The contract requires BAE Systems to replace existing subsystems and associated ground support systems.

The upgraded system will enter service in 2011, and will build on developments for the ‘Wedgetail’ Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft. The new system will remain operational until the current planned withdrawal date of the AP-3C.

AP-3C Orion aircraft, which are operated from RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia, play a vital role in Australia’s national and international maritime patrol, reconnaissance and strike capability.

The contract will also contribute to Australia’s skills base by creating at its peak in 2008, 45 additional civilian jobs, including technicians and engineers.

The new contract is part of a series of up to $600m of AP-3C upgrades that are anticipated over the next seven years.

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