Tue, Dec 21, 2004
$1.4 Billion Deal Goes To EADS/Airbus/CASA Consortium
Australia's Defense Department has
signed a $1.4 billion contract with EADS/CASA to provide the Royal
Australian Air Force with five new air-to-air refueling aircraft,
Defence Minister Robert Hill announced Monday.
"The new aircraft, to be known as Multi Role Tanker Transports,
will be capable of refueling F/A-18, F-111, Airborne Early Warning
and Control, and Joint Strike Fighter aircraft as well as having a
significant strategic airlift capability," Senator Hill said.
"This contract signing is a significant step in replacing the
Royal Australian Air Force's ageing Boeing 707 aircraft. The
aircraft will be fitted with electronic warfare self protection
equipment and training simulators will also be provided."
The new refueling aircraft will be based on the Airbus
commercial A330 aircraft that is currently operated by Qantas as
part of its commercial fleet.
The basic A330 aircraft will be produced in Europe with four of
the five being modified and converted into MRTT aircraft by Qantas
in Brisbane. Qantas will also provide the through life support for
the MRTT aircraft.
"Australian industry will also be closely involved in the design
work, project management, and production of aircraft components and
engine parts for export," Senator Hill said.
"Work to be undertaken by Australian industry and the associated
technology to be transferred to Australia is expected to exceed
$500 million over the life of the MRTT aircraft."
The aircraft are scheduled to enter service in 2009. The contract
schedule provides sufficient time for the aircraft to be
extensively tested, facilities to be established and RAAF crews to
be trained in order to ensure the MRTT capability is effectively
introduced.
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