BAE Systems Australia

From a dusty paddock at the Woomera Test Range testing first-generation air defence missile systems in 1953 to being selected in 2018 to deliver the next generation of advanced anti-submarine warships in Adelaide, BAE has come a long way in 65 years of operation in Australia.

BAE’s ASC Shipbuilding has already begun work to deliver nine Hunter class frigates, with prototyping underway and construction of the first frigate due to start in 2022. The Hunter class frigate program will create and sustain more than 5000 jobs across BAE Systems and the wider Australian defence supply chain over the life of the program.

Similarly, the Jindalee Operational Radar Network (JORN) Phase 6 upgrade and sustainment will span 10 years and support an additional 100 jobs within BAE Systems, and 100 jobs in the supply chain.

BAE Systems continues to grow and is now delivering more than 200 programs for the Australian Defence Force.

With more than 2000 employees across six locations in South Australia, BAE are a significant contributor to the defence industry the state, committed to partnering with and supporting local industry and creating jobs in South Australia for generations to come.

As we navigate unchartered waters globally, I’m proud of our ongoing commitment to the Australian Defence Force in continuing to deliver critical capabilities. Despite the current challenges, there are opportunities for the future. In South Australia, home of the Hunter class frigate program and now the centre of naval shipbuilding in Australia, we’re supporting local industry, developing skills and training and creating jobs for generations to come.

Gabrielle Costigan, Chief Executive Officer, BAE Systems Australia