Above: Minister for Defence, Christopher Pyne visited the BAE Systems stand at the 2019 Avalon Airshow.
Courtesy BAE Systems

The Company will continue to sustain the Hawk fleet at Williamtown and Pearce until at least 2022, with further potential performance-based extensions.
 
The role includes all deeper and operational-level maintenance, logistics and the management of the Australian supply chain for the programme.

 
Reflecting the RAAF’s strategy to bring innovative asset management to sustainment, this contract sees BAE Systems Australia take on the role of Platform Steward for the Hawk which will see the company playing a critical role in the long-term availability and capability of the aircraft.
 
BAE Systems Australia Aerospace and Integrated Systems Director, Steve Drury, said: “The performance of the team supporting this project has been pivotal to securing this contract extension.
 
“We have increased the work we do to support the aircraft, in parallel with a significant upgrade of the entire Hawk fleet and we have worked hard to reduce program costs.
 
“The Lead in Fighter Capability Assurance Programme upgrade ensures the aircraft is suitable for a fifth generation air force, preparing pilots for fast jets including the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and now the commercial model supporting the capability is appropriately contemporary and aligned to the Commonwealth Government’s Defence Industry strategy.”