12 April 2024
The AH-64E Apache program has reached an important milestone with the recent establishment of a $306 million Apache initial support contract with Boeing Defence Australia.
The contract will provide maintenance, engineering and logistics support, as well as aircrew and technician training for the Apache fleet.
The first seven Boeing Defence Australia employees have commenced work in locations across Queensland, focused on the development of Apache training materials and establishing a logistics and maintenance site in Townsville.
This paves the way for growth in the logistics and engineering disciplines within the Attack Helicopter systems program office.
Director General of Army Aviation Systems Branch, Brigadier Andrew Thomas, said the workforce would continue to grow, with an initial 71 positions to be filled by January 2025.
Brigadier Thomas said the Apache program was expected to reach full strength by 2030.
“Over its seven-year term, this contract will provide over 230 industry jobs across the Queensland locations of Townsville, Brisbane and Oakey,” Brigadier Thomas said.
Townville is also set to become an industry hub, following the expansion of Army Aviation’s presence in the region.
“As part of this increased presence, the new fleet of Apache helicopters will be introduced alongside Army’s Chinooks,” Brigadier Thomas said.
“Both platforms are supported by Boeing Defence Australia as the prime contractor; generating a regional hub of rotary wing excellence for both the ADF and local industry.
“The support offered to these two platforms will generate employment stability for the current and future workforce of these helicopters.”
