The Hon Stuart Robert MP
17 Sep 15
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The Hon Stuart Robert MP
Assistant Minister for Defence
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15 July 2015
Assistant Minister for Defence, Stuart Robert, today visited RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory where he was briefed on facility upgrades and observed elements of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2015.
Mr Robert praised local personnel during his visit and noted the important role they play in delivering critical Defence capabilities.
“The work carried out by personnel at RAAF Base Tindal is vital to a number of Defence activities, including flying operations in Iraq,” Mr Robert said.
“It was great to see the home base of Number 75 Squadron, which has personnel deployed to the Air Task Group in the Middle East Region along with some of Australia’s F/A-18A Hornets.”
During the tour Minister Robert was briefed on planned upgrades for the arrival of the F-35A Lightning II (Joint Strike Fighter) aircraft and other base upgrade projects.
“Purpose built facilities for the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter will be constructed along with a number of upgrades to existing facilities including to engineering infrastructure; the base warehouse; and counter-measure storage and preparation facilities,” Mr Robert said.
“I was particularly pleased to see refurbishments being carried out to the on-base housing provided to Defence families. Another 50 houses will be constructed on base next year, bringing more housing choice for members and their families along with economic benefits to the Katherine community.”
“RAAF Base Tindal remains an important part of Katherine and I expect support will grow within the community as future developments and upgrades are realised.
Minister Robert also spoke to members from Number 3 Squadron from RAAF Base Williamtown (NSW) who are visiting RAAF Base Tindal, along with their F/A-18A/B Hornets, as part of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2015.
Talisman Sabre will conclude on 21 July 2015.
Media note:
Imagery will be available later today on the following link: http://images.defence.gov.au/S20151972
Media contacts:
Richard Briedis (Minister Robert’s office): 0477 391 174
Defence Media Operations: (02) 6127 1999