Boeing to upgrade Defence comms

The Australian Department of Defence has signed a contract for an upgrade to the next generation of military communications for the Australian Defence Force.

The contract with Boeing Defence Australia will help develop a modern and networked Army and is expected to create around 250 new jobs across Australia in the defence industry sector.

The contract, valued at $665 million, will see Boeing design, develop and deliver a modern, digital communications system to support the deployment of operational headquarters and enable access to Defence’s strategic networks.

Under Project LAND 2072 Phase 2B, Defence will replace ageing mobile communication systems and computer networks, providing leading-edge digital wideband voice, data and video services over wireless and wired infrastructure.

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.

The contracts will be managed from the Boeing Defence Australia Brisbane facility and include subcontracts with Harris Communications Australia and GH Varley.

Delivery of the capability will be complemented by an integrated support contract to ensure operational availability throughout the life of the project.

Initial operational capability is expected in 2017, with final operational capability in 2020.