RAAF Has Agreed To Purchase 72 Of The Fifth-Generation Fighters

The U.S. Department of Defense, F-35 Joint Program Office has selected the companies that will provide global maintenance, repair, overhaul and upgrade (MRO&U) assignment for selected aircraft systems fitted to the aircraft. Ahead of a competitive field, Australian companies have been selected to undertake the majority of component repairs for the Pacific region from next decade. Australia will serve as the repair and maintenance hub for the Pacific region.

GE has teamed with BAE Systems and Northrop Grumman in Australia to provide MRO&U services across a broad range of systems, which will support F-35 aircraft operating in the Pacific region. GE has been assigned the role of industry lead for the F-35 electrical power systems.

“This is an exciting opportunity and a great win for Australia when you consider that we are one of only four countries around the world selected to perform the work.” said Geoff Culbert, President and Chief Executive Officer, GE Australia, New Zealand & PNG. “This further strengthens Australia’s aviation sector and is evidence of the expertise across the industry here.”

The RAAF has committed to purchasing 72 F-35A, with the first aircraft arriving in Australia in late 2018. Japan has committed to purchasing 42 aircraft, and South Korea committed to 40 aircraft.

(Source: GE Aviation news release. Image from file)

FMI: www.geaviation.com