Australian Aerospace today underlined its long-term commitment to the nation’s helicopter industry, in the wake of the Federal Government’s decision not to purchase the company’s NH90 NFH under Air 9000 Phase 8.

Dr Jens Goennemann, Chief Executive Officer Australian Aerospace said the company was disappointed with the decision, but has existing assembly and maintenance contracts and will continue to explore opportunities.

“While the Federal Government’s decision means we won’t be able to create the 750 highly-skilled, long-term jobs we planned, Australian Aerospace will continue to employ staff working on our present programs.”

“The current MRH90 and ARH Tiger assembly and associated Through-Life Support contracts, Fixed-Wing Programs and civilian activities will keep our Brisbane plant and other facilities across Australia operating at a high level.”

Dr Goennemann thanked the Queensland Government for its steadfast support of the NFH bid while also thanking the company’s Australian industry partners for their support in preparing the tender. “Our supporters and industry partners were with us throughout the tender process. It is regrettable that Australian industry has missed out on this significant opportunity,” he concluded.

About Australian Aerospace:
With more than 1000 staff in Australia and New Zealand, Australian Aerospace has access to the financial strength and expertise of Eurocopter and the EADS Group.

At its production facility on Brisbane Airport, Australian Aerospace currently is assembling and delivering 22 Tiger ARH armed reconnaissance helicopters to the Australian Army and 46 MRH90 multi-role helicopters to the Army and Navy.

In addition to its helicopter capabilities, Australian Aerospace supports the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) AP-3C Orion reconnaissance aircraft and C-130J Hercules transports. The company is also involved in supporting the RAAF’s new Airbus A330-based Multi-Role Tanker-Transport (MRTT) aircraft and F/A18 (Classic) Hornet fighters.