BAE Systems UK has been awarded a $25 million contract to upgrade the RAAF’s Hawk Lead-in Fighter program.
Minister for Defence Materiel Jason Clare said upgrading the country’s fast jet training system would ensure its effectiveness into the next decade. The Hawk is used to train ADF pilots before they move on to the F/A-18 classic Hornet or Super Hornet or, in the future, the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.
Both BAE Systems UK and Australia have been working closely with the ADF to define the scope of the upgrade, leveraging off previous Hawk development programs, officials said.
Australian industry is expected play a facilitation role in the early stages of the upgrade, ensuring compatibility with the current Lead-In Fighter training capability. Australian companies will also be responsible for construction of simulator facilities, modification of the Hawk fleet, and in-service support of equipment, Defence said.
