Airbus secures contract extension for RAAF C-130J fleet support.

Airbus and Australia’s Department of Defence have signed a two year contract extension to Airbus’ Through Life Support (TLS) sustainment contract in support of the Royal Australian Air Force’s fleet of C-130J Hercules transport aircraft, the aircraft maker said on December 18, 2018.

RAAF C-130J Hercules Formation Flight over Sydn
ey(Commonwealth of Australia/Department of Defence/FSGT Glen McCarthy)

Originally signed in 2009, the contract is structured as a six-year rolling agreement, the continuation of which is linked to demonstrated performance and cost containment. 

Under the terms of today’s agreement valued at A$175m (US$ 123m), the six-year rolling contract will be extended by an additional two years, out to 2024.

Commenting on the latest extension, Rob Elder, Acting Managing Director, Airbus Australia Pacific, acknowledged the contribution of Airbus personnel engaged on C-130J TLS and deep maintenance at RAAF Richmond and other Airbus precincts.

“I wish to thank our employees for their special contribution to enabling this achievement,” he said.

“The C-130J TLS Contract Extension is the best recognition we can receive from our customer, and will ensure long-term employment opportunities for our people in the technical and professional disciplines as we support the C-130J to fly, to succeed and to come home safely, every time.”

The RAAF No. 37 Squadron currently flies 12 C-130J Super Hercules airlifters.