BAE Systems Australia has been awarded a nine-month contract to develop an operational model for integrating the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter into the Australia defence environment.
Under the contract, BAE will work with the ADF and New Air Combat Capability (NACC) program to “develop a model that outlines all requirements for JSF operations and sustainment including maintenance, supply, training needs and fleet asset management,” BAE said in a statement.
BAE said it has appointed Dave Harrison, an employee from its UK JSF team, to lead the project. Mr Harrison has more than 10 years experience with the aircraft and played a “pivotal role” in working with the British Joint Combat Air Project to support the integration of the aircraft into the UK defence force, according to the company.
The project will also include planning for follow-on phases that will support the continued integration of the JSF through to Initial Operating Capability, which is planned for 2019/20.
