Boeing Awarded Australian Apache Support Contract

• Initial seven-year contract includes engineering, maintenance, training and logistics.
• More than 230 new roles to be created in Townsville, Oakey and Brisbane.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA,  Feb. 7, 2024 - Boeing [NYSE: BA] will assist Defence in sustaining Australia’s future AH-64E Apache attack helicopters under a seven-year contract.

More than 230 new roles will be created in Queensland under the initial support contract, covering maintenance, engineering, aircrew and maintainer training, and logistics for the 29 Apaches.

Last year, Boeing announced five Australian companies will supply parts to the Australian or global Apache fleets.

“We have an unmatched sovereign platform sustainment capability that has enhanced multiple Foreign Military Sale platforms for the Australian Defence Force, and we’ll adopt that proven approach on Australia’s Apache program,” said Scott Carpendale, BDA’s vice president and managing director.

“Together with our local parts suppliers, this contract will bolster Australia’s defence industry and deliver a dependable new frontline capability in Australia, for Australians.”

MAJGEN Jeremy King, Head of Joint Aviation Systems Division, Capability Acquisition & Sustainment Group, said: "Defence is dedicated to enhancing the Australian Defence Force’s battlefield aviation capability and building Defence industry.

"The initial support contract with Boeing Defence Australia meets Defence’s requirements for a skilled workforce in the operating and training units in Townsville and Oakey, as well as the support office in Brisbane.

“Defence looks forward to working collaboratively with Boeing Defence Australia in achieving the AH-64E Apache fleet’s introduction into service," he said.

Boeing is focused on delivering the Australian Apache from 2025 to support the Commonwealth’s target of Initial Operational Capability in late 2026.

Boeing has also been awarded a CH-47 Chinook Integrated Support Services contract extension, further strengthening the company’s in-country rotary-wing capability and securing regional jobs in Townsville.