The Hon Peter Dutton MP
8 Apr 22
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The Hon Peter Dutton MP
Minister for Defence
Media contacts
Nicole Chant (Minister Dutton’s office): +61 0419 850 222
Defence media: media@defence.gov.au
Release content
21 February 2022
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) is upgrading and extending in-service support for the Hawk 127 Lead-In Fighter Training System based in the Hunter region and Perth.
The Morrison Government’s $1.5 billion investment will directly support local jobs and bolster the RAAF’s aviation capability into the future.
The 10-year contract with BAE Systems Australia will sustain 350 direct jobs, support opportunities for up to 900 direct and indirect jobs for Australian industry members and progressively update the performance of the fast-jet combat training aircraft until 2032.
The Lead-In Fighter Training System efficiently and effectively provides aircrew with the skills and experience to bridge the gap between initial training and the skills required to operate Air Combat fast jet aircraft.
The update will include an engine replacement, to meet the emerging needs of pilots preparing to fly the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter, the F/A-18F Super Hornet and the EA-18G Growler.
Rolls-Royce will deliver the Mk951 Adour Engine. The design work to integrate the upgraded Mk951 engine to the aircraft is progressing to schedule.
The Morrison Government has already made significant investments at RAAF Base Williamtown and RAAF Base Pearce, and this contract reaffirms our ongoing commitment to support regional development and build our national resilience.