$569 million contract locks in another decade of jobs in the Hunter

The Albanese Government has ensured the future of the Royal Australian Air Force’s E-7A Wedgetail surveillance aircraft with a $569 million contract that also secures hundreds of highly skilled jobs across the country.  

This contract with Boeing Defence Australia, announced today, will deliver enhancements to the aircraft and ground systems and ensures this critical capability is upgraded and maintained over the next decade.

This additional funding provides job security for hundreds of people in Brisbane and Adelaide, as well as the NSW Hunter Region where it will alone support 170 jobs. This is in addition to the approximately 360 existing Defence and industry personnel who support the Wedgetail at RAAF Base Williamtown. 

The E-7A Wedgetail is a cornerstone of Australia’s integrated air and missile defence capability, providing crucial situational awareness and airborne command and control. 

The ADF’s six aircraft are operated by No. 2 Squadron based at RAAF Base Williamtown, near Newcastle. 

This is another example of the Albanese Government’s ongoing commitment to a future made in Australia, and commitment to strengthening our sovereign defence industry capability. 

Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles:

“The Albanese Government continues to invest in the capabilities needed for our Defence Force, this is in stark contrast to the Coalition and their decade of neglect. 

“The Wedgetail is one of the most advanced in-air battle management capabilities in the world. This will not only contribute to the security of our region, but helps support Australian defence industry and secure jobs. 

“We’ve seen how important this capability is, most recently through its deployment to Europe helping to provide early warning for potential threats from Russia under Operation Kudu. 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy:

“The hundreds of high-skilled jobs secured by this additional funding are part of the more than 10,000-strong workforce employed in the defence industry in the Hunter. 

“This funding supports a critical capability that keeps Australians safe but is also critical for the financial security of hundreds of people across the country, including in the Hunter. 

“The Albanese Government is building Australia’s future with secure jobs that are critical to our national security and sovereignty.”

MEDIA NOTE:

Media can access imagery/vision at https://images.defence.gov.au/assets/Home/Search?Query=20240716raaf8672247_0156.jpg&Type=Filename 

More information regarding the E-7A Wedgetail capability is available at: E-7A Wedgetail | Air Force