Australian Industry workers to support Army's future helicopter fleet

Hundreds of Australian jobs will be created to sustain and support the Australian Army’s future helicopter fleet, as part of a $830 million investment in local industry.

Lockheed Martin Australia has been awarded a $340 million integrated support contract for Australia’s Black Hawk helicopters.

The Black Hawk will be a critical capability for the Australian Defence Force, supporting the deployment of troops and equipment, and providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

The five-year contract will generate hundreds of jobs in Queensland and New South Wales, including through the establishment of a central warehouse in Western Sydney.

Queensland will receive an additional jobs boost through two Boeing Defence Australia contracts now in place for the AH-64E Apache platform and CH-47F Chinook fleet.

More than 230 new jobs across Queensland will be supported by a seven-year initial support contract for the Apache helicopter worth $306 million, delivering maintenance, engineering, training and logistics services.

The Apache helicopter fleet will be based in Townsville from 2025 where it is estimated more than 150 jobs will be created, with a further 50 jobs in Brisbane and 30 jobs in Oakey.

The Chinook integrated support services contract with Boeing Defence Australia has also been extended for an additional 12-months until August 2028, increasing the total contract value from $146 million to $184 million.

The Chinook support contract allows for the direct employment of more than 70 local personnel in Townsville, Oakey and Brisbane.

The Albanese Government is committed to investing in our defence industry workforce and together these contracts will support local jobs across Queensland and New South Wales over the coming years, while equipping our Army with modern, fit-for-purpose capabilities for the future.

Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles:

“Australia’s defence industry is vital to delivering the critical capabilities needed to keep our nation safe.

“These investments in the Black Hawk, Apache and Chinook fleets will support workers and industry.

“The Albanese Government is making the important decisions when it comes to sustainment, and at the heart of that is local Australian jobs.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:

“Through these contracts with Boeing Defence Australia and Lockheed Martin Australia, we are helping deliver certainty for local defence industry.

“These contracts will support hundreds of well-paid jobs, providing financial security for hard working Australians.

“The Albanese Government is delivering on its commitment to support the Australian defence industry and provide ADF personnel with the enhanced capabilities they need to do their job and keep Australians safe.”