14:44 GMT, May 28, 2009 WILLIAMTOWN, Australia | BAE Systems Australia and L-3 MAS Canada have confirmed their selection to provide long term maintenance and modification support for the F/A-18 Hornet fighter in Australia.

The four year initial contract period (2009 –2012) has extension options until 2018 and has a potential total value of approximately AUD $150 million.

BAE Systems Australia’s Managing Director Jim McDowell said the contract was a key element in sustaining the fast jet support capability that BAE Systems and L-3 MAS have established in support of the critically important air combat capabilities of the Royal Australian Air Force.

“The awarding of this contract is another example of BAE Systems’ ability to provide best value through-life support for the RAAF. It further strengthens our already significant readiness and sustainment capability,” Mr McDowell said.

“Along with our key partner L-3 MAS Canada, we are proud to be making a vital contribution to sustainment of the RAAF’s air combat capability,” he said.

“This is a great partnership specifically tailored to meet the client’s requirements,” said Mr. Sylvain Bédard, President of L-3 MAS Canada.

“BAE Systems Australia and L-3 MAS are very complementary and were able to offer best value to the Commonwealth.”

Mr McDowell said the contract would also see BAE Systems expanding its workforce by another 40 positions at its Williamtown facility. “Our investment in enhancing the skills of our technical workforce and the building of new facilities at Williamtown provides the basis for future support not only of the RAAF Hornet aircraft but also the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) that will eventually replace them.

“BAE Systems plans further investment to ensure that Australia has the capability for in-country indigenous support of the fifth generation JSF that will form the mainstay of the nation’s air combat capability,” Mr McDowell said.