Minister for Defence - Jindalee Operational Radar Network achieves Final Operational Capability

The Jindalee Operational Radar Network, provided by Joint Project 2025 Phase Five, has achieved Final Operational Capability (FOC) Defence Minister David Johnston said today.

Senator Johnston said the successful delivery of JP 2025 Phase Five has improved JORN’s over-the-horizon-radar performance and its integration with the wider Defence command and control and intelligence networks.

“The Jindalee Operational Radar Network contributes to Australia’s security environment by providing wide area surveillance of Australia’s northern approaches, Senator Johnston said.

“Achieving Final Operational Capability means the system’s components are now fully operational and fully developed and they meet the final standards required by Defence to operate effectively.

“FOC takes into account all elements required to sustain and operate a capability with the necessary support, maintenance, training, personnel and operational arrangements in place.”

The enhancements to JORN under JP 2025 Phase Five have provided greater integration and connectivity between the JORN radar sites, its control systems and wider Defence command and surveillance networks.

JORN consists of a network of three radar sites located at Longreach, QLD, Laverton, WA, and Alice Springs, NT, and is operated by 1 Radar Surveillance Unit (1RSU) located at RAAF Edinburgh, SA.

The prime contractors for JP 2025 Phase Five were Lockheed Martin and British Aerospace Systems – Australia.

Media contacts:

Mark Dodd (Senator Johnston’s Office) 0477 389 560

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999