Bombardier to provide RAAF Hornet structural refurbishment

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has designated Bombardier Defence Services as the prime contractor for the first phase of the Australian Hornet Structural Refurbishment Programme (SRP1). The 18-month contract is valued at C$13M and is expected to take effect in August 2002. Bombardier will be responsible for initiating SRP1 Non-Recurring Engineering (NRE) activities. The RAAF intends to transfer the full-scale implementation of the programme to the Australian industry.

Under the SRP1 contract, Bombardier will undertake non-recurring activities that include engineering, tooling and fabrication of prototype kits for all required structural modifications and repairs under this contract. Later on, Bombardier will install the kits on an Australian F/A-18 Hornet prototype aircraft at its Mirabel facilities near Montreal. The SRP1 contract also includes provision for other programme activities that are to be defined and negotiated over the next 12 months.

"Our relationship with the RAAF will continue to evolve as we capitalise on the structural expertise acquired through the joint Canada-Australia F/A-18 full scale fatigue test. Bombardier is committed to supporting the RAAF through innovative and affordable solutions," commented Mr. Jacques Auger, president of Bombardier Defence Services.

The RAAF Hornet Structural Refurbishment Programme is part of the Hornet Upgrade Programme (HUG) and will be conducted in two phases. Phase 1 is designed to include the structural modifications and repairs to bring the aircraft to 72 per cent of its fatigue life while Phase 2, if required, will be designed to bring the aircraft to its full fatigue life.

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