Boeing Defence Australia has received a contract to upgrade the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) battlefield communications network.
Under the terms of $665m contract, the company will design, develop and deliver an advanced digital communications system to support the deployment of operational headquarters and enable access to the defence’s strategic networks.
The contract is a part of Land 2072 Phase 2B Project, which aims to replace the ADF’s ageing mobile communication systems and computer networks, providing advanced digital wideband voice, data and video services over wireless and wired infrastructure.
Specifically, this project will enable the army and elements of the air force and navy to replace ageing mobile communications and computer networks, to provide commanders with an increased level of situational awareness, command and control, and information sharing capability.
Australian Defence Minister Kevin Andrews said in a statement: "The newly acquired capability will enable deployed forces to operate more effectively by providing digital communications.
"It will give commanders an increased level of situational awareness, command and control, and information sharing capability, improving the capacity, flexibility and responsiveness of the ADF during operations."
Apart from helping in achieving a modern and networked Army, the contract is also anticipated to create approximately 250 new jobs across Australia in the defence industry sector.
Boeing has joined forces with Harris Communications Australia and GH Varley, and will manage the contract from its facility in Brisbane, Australia.
According to Andrews, delivery of the capability will be complemented by an integrated support contract to ensure operational availability across the life of the project.
Initial operational capability is expected in 2017, while the final operational capability is scheduled to be declared in 2020.
