The fleet is being maintained under a $1 billion through-life support and capability upgrade program until its planned withdrawal from service in 2019, and replacement by Australia’s new maritime patrol fleets of P8-A Poseidon and MQ-4C Triton, also to be based at RAAF Base Edinburgh.
The through-life support program is run by the AP-3C Accord Alliance, consisting of Airbus Group Australia Pacific, BAE Systems Australia and the Department of Defence. It contributes about $80 million and 1000 jobs to the state economy each year.
Since 2005, over 100 highly skilled engineers employed by Raytheon Australia have been providing avionics through-life support to the AP-3C Orions and aerospace support to the Air Warfare Centre under two contracts worth over $300 million. CAE Australia, located at RAAF Base Edinburgh provide software, system maintenance, upgrade and support to the AP-3C Advanced Flight Simulator as part of a multimillion dollar support contract which commenced in 2013.
The eventual disposal of the AP-3C Orions will provide opportunities for local industry. Whether they are sold overseas or used as static displays, the aircraft will require modification.
More information: RAAF AP-3C Orion
For further information please direct all enquiries to Reg Carruthers, Director, Aerospace at Defence SA. Tel: +61 8 8226 6637 or Reg.Carruthers@defencesa.com