A number of new air related project phases have been included in the latest update to the Defence Capability Plan (DCP), released by Defence Minister Stephen Smith on December 17, including acquisition of a fourth squadron of F-35 JSFs, a ‘multi-mission’ UAS, and upgrades to the Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft and Tiger ARH helicopter. Update 2
Defence Minister Stephen Smith has announced the consolidation of RAAF F/A-18A/B ‘classic’ Hornet refurbishment projects into a new combined program with a cost capped $250-300 million budget. “This combined program is estimated to result in savings of more than $500 million over the previously planned approach, but deliver the same enhanced capability result,” the Minister
Command of the RAAF’s Air Lift Group (ALG) officially transferred from Air Commodore John Oddie to Air Commodore Gary Martin on December 15. AIRCDRE Oddie had been Commander ALG since December 2008, and in early 2011 will take up the position of Deputy Commander of Joint Task Force 633 in the Middle East Area of
The Swiss air force has ordered two further Pilatus PC-21s for its Jet Pilot Training System. The Swiss air force took delivery of six PC-21s in 2008, and since 2009, pilots have transferred directly to the F/A-18 from the PC-21 after basic training on the PC-7. The 30m Swiss franc (A$31.5m) deal was signed on
Raytheon has announced its teaming with BAE Systems to bid for the ADF’s Air 5428 Pilot Training System program. The Raytheon led bid will centre on the Hawker Beechcraft T-6C turboprop trainer, but will also include simulators, training devices, instructors, facilities and courseware. “I believe that by focusing on flexibility, cost and schedule management as
Lockheed Martin says the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) test fleet has now achieved its goal of 394 flights in 2010, with the 400th flight milestone passed on December 13. “We exceeded our 394 flight goal and expect to meet out overall test point goal this year by reaching ahead and working 2011 test points,”
