Lockheed Martin awarded $765M contract for Aussie air defence system.
Lockheed Martin to Create Enhanced Air and Missile Defence Capability for Australia
The federal Labor government announced on Aug. 29 that Lockheed Martin will oversee the development of a critically enhanced, all-domain integrated air and missile defence capability for Australia. This comes after the Defence Strategic Review identified the need for such a capability to address the evolving strategic environment.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles stated that this program is part of a multi-billion-dollar initiative to ensure that the Australian Defence Force (ADF) remains at the forefront.
“The Albanese government is working diligently to equip the ADF with modernized capabilities that will transform it into an integrated force optimized for national defense, in line with the findings of the Defence Strategic Review,” said Marles.
Marles added, “The new Joint Air Battle Management System and the Medium-Range Ground-Based Air Defence System will provide essential capabilities as part of the integrated ADF. These capabilities are crucial for preserving and protecting our sovereignty and security, while also promoting stability in the region.”
The government has allocated $765 million to the AIR6500 Phase 1 (AIR6500-1) program, also known as the Joint Air Battle Management System program. It is expected to enhance situational awareness of advanced air and missile threats and improve interoperability with international partners.
The project is estimated to create around 230 high-tech jobs, including roles in software development, systems engineering, project management, and logistics. The majority of these jobs will be generated in South Australia and the Hunter region of New South Wales, with additional positions in Brisbane and Canberra.
Lockheed Martin: Transforming Australia’s Air Defence Program
Stephanie Hill, Executive Vice President of Lockheed Martin’s Rotary and Mission Systems, believes that the AIR6500-1 program could set a global benchmark.
“Australia’s AIR6500-1 program is truly transformational. It will serve as a blueprint for future military Joint All-Domain Operations worldwide,” said Hill.
She added, “We are honored to be chosen as the trusted strategic partner to lead and deliver this important sovereign capability, in collaboration with Australian industry, to the Australian Defence Force.”
This groundbreaking system will provide the ADF with enhanced situational awareness and security against advanced air and missile threats, while also improving interoperability with the United States and other partners like the UK.
Benefits to Australia
Warren Macdonald, CEO of Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand, emphasized the company’s collaborative approach to the project, stating that “the majority of the program workshare will be allocated to Australian industry.”
Lockheed Martin has already identified over 130 potential Australian small to medium enterprises as partners and has awarded contracts to 10 Australian firms, including Leidos Australia, Consunet, Consilium, and C4I.
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