Government Signs Historic Agreement to Benefit Australian Industry

Joint Media Release

• Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Steven Ciobo MP

The first Australian Industry Capability (AIC) Deed has been signed today, between the Department of Defence and Northrop Grumman, creating new opportunities for Australia’s defence industry.

The AIC Deed represents a commitment by Northrop Grumman to pursuing the use of Australian industry in their supply chain for any future Government-to-Government procurements. 

Minister Ciobo witnessed the signing at the 2019 Avalon International Airshow.

“The viability, competitiveness and prosperity of Australia’s defence industry is essential to keeping us safe, and building the capability we need to protect our national interests,” he said.

“This is why the Liberal National Government is committed to growing the Australian defence industrial base.

“Traditionally, when we buy Defence capability from our allied governments, locking in opportunities for Australian companies is difficult.  But our commitment to leveraging that investment to grow and strengthen our industrial base is unwavering.”

Minister Pyne said the AIC Deed is an unprecedented approach to securing work for Australian industry.

“This signing with Northrop Grumman highlights their commitment to partnering with the Government to maximise opportunities for Australian industry,” he said.

“The AIC Deed is another way in which the Liberal National Government is realising our commitments to strengthen the AIC Program.  It is a blueprint for the future and we look forward to working with other Primes to enter into similar arrangements.”