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Discovery Air Defence Services Inc. (DA Defence) and Air Affairs Australia Pty Ltd. (Air Affairs Australia) have been awarded a two-year trial contract by the Commonwealth of Australia to provide Red Air and fighter support to the Australian Defence Force.
The “Jet Air Support-Fast Jet Trial” consists of three highly-advanced Alpha Jets based at Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Williamtown. These upgraded jets feature dual touch screens, new radios and GPS receivers for enhanced precision and safety.
DA Defence will provide Red Air and fighter support to the Royal Australian Air Force, Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) training to the Australian Army, and anti-surface training for the Royal Australian Navy. The trial will begin in Q3 of this year.
“We are very proud to be selected by the Australian government and Air Affairs Australia to bring our capabilities and experience to the Australian Defence Force,” said Paul Bouchard, president of Discovery Air Defence. “We are exporting Canadian excellence and expertise to a key ally. We are trusted by the world’s leading air forces to deliver highly-representative threats and training to produce the world’s best fighter pilots.”
“Air Affairs Australia is pleased to be working closely with Discovery Air Defence for the Fast Jet Trial. Discovery Air Defence’s proven track record in contracted air services brings a complementary solution to our current Jet Air Services contract,” said Chris Sievers, managing director of Air Affairs Australia. “Our common commitment to the highest levels of safety and airworthiness will ensure the best training for the Australian Defence Force.”
DA Defence and its U.S. subsidiary, Top Aces, have the world’s largest privately-held operating fleet of fighter aircraft. The training provided supports the operational readiness of both current and future generation fighter aircraft.
