The Government has ensured the future of the Royal Australian Air Force’s E-7A Wedgetail surveillance aircraft with a $569 million contract that also secures hundreds of highly skilled jobs across the country.  

This contract with Boeing Defence Australia, announced on 7 March, will deliver enhancements to the aircraft and ground systems and ensures this critical capability is upgraded and maintained over the next decade.

This additional funding provides job security for hundreds of people in Brisbane and Adelaide, as well as the NSW Hunter Region where it will alone support 170 jobs. This is in addition to the approximately 360 existing Defence and industry personnel who support the Wedgetail at RAAF Base Williamtown. 

The E-7A Wedgetail is a cornerstone of Australia’s integrated air and missile defence capability, providing crucial situational awareness and airborne command and control. 

The ADF’s six aircraft are operated by No. 2 Squadron based at RAAF Base Williamtown, near Newcastle. 

This is another example of the Government’s ongoing commitment to a future made in Australia, and commitment to strengthening our sovereign defence industry capability.