Defence has released a tender for deeper maintenance of the RAAF classic F/A-18 Hornet fleet, with the new contract expected to take effect from April 2013.
“This contract will provide all deeper maintenance requirements for the 55 single-seat and 16 dual-seat aircraft and associated systems. This includes operational fight trainers, computer‑based training systems, maintenance training systems and Classic Hornet unique ground support and test equipment,” Minister for Defence Materiel Jason Clare said.
The announcement comes after the Minister for Defence Stephen Smith said the procurement of the next tranche of F-35 would be delayed by two years, forcing the classic Hornet fleet to bridge the possible capability gap.
The RFT closes in July 2012.
In January encumbents BAE Systems and L3 MAS Canada were awarded a 10-month extension to their classic Hornet maintenance and modification contract, from December 2012 to October 2013.
