NT businesses can benefit from massive upgrades at RAAF Darwin
The US Defence Department is seeking businesses for extensive upgrades to RAAF Base Darwin. Read what’s planned.
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The United States Department of Defence will spend up to $760m upgrading RAAF Base Darwin – and Territory businesses can share in the big-bucks bonanza.
The works are part of the US Force Posture initiative to enhance security in the Asia-Pacific region.
With a total estimated value of between US$250-500m - up to A$760m – works include construction of a parking apron, a maintenance support facility and an aircraft maintenance hangar at RAAF Base Darwin.
According to online publication Defence Connect, the contract also includes an aircraft rinse facility, aircraft wash rack, helicopter landing pads and supporting facilities as well as construction of Marine aviation logistics squadron and Marine wing support squadron facilities to support the Marine Corps Air Combat Element.
As well, a Type 11 aircraft maintenance hangar, telecommunications distribution facility, supporting facilities, utility connections, site improvements and earthworks will be included in the contract.
A statement released earlier this month by the US Embassy said the infrastructure would boost Base capacity.
“As part of the US Force Posture Initiatives, the project will enhance the capacity of the US and Australia to complete joint military operations and training exercises, promote opportunities to engage with regional partners and demonstrate our shared commitment to Indo-Pacific security,” the statement said.
The ADF’s Security and Estate Group said the tender opportunity will allow Australian businesses to support the Force Posture in Northern Australia.
“These projects are part of force co-operation with the United States to enhance interoperability and improve our ability to respond to regional crisis,” an SEG statement said.
Under the Force Posture, Australian businesses and joint ventures have won United States-funded infrastructure contracts to the value of almost US$200m.
This includes the completion of a new fuel facility at RAAF Base Darwin to support enhanced air co-operation between the United States and Australia and construction of a US tank storage facility at East Arm, which is behind schedule but expected to be completed by July.
In addition, tens-of-millions was spent upgrading RAAF Base Tindal in Katherine to support KC-30A multi role tanker transport operations, which Defence said will enhance air mobility, including air-to-air refuelling and air logistics support missions.
Tens-of-millions more have been spent developing the MQ-4C Triton drone, four of which will be deployed at RAAF Base Tindal near Katherine from later this year.
First tests for the MQ-4C Triton system took place in California late last year ahead of its deployment. The high altitude drone will be used for maritime patrol and other surveillance roles and operated by the newly reformed Number 9 Squadron at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia.
The RAAF Base tender is due to close on April 18.
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