THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science
Thursday 1 October 2009
075/2009
UNITED STATES KEY TO OUR DEFENCE CAPABILITY
Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science today
emphasised the importance of the United States Government and defence
industry to Australian defence capability.
“A good relationship between the Australian and US Government and defence
industries is critical for a number of our current defence procurements, and
many of our future projects,” Mr Combet said.
Mr Combet said the importance of these relationships was highlighted
following a visit to Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems and the US Naval
Surface Warfare Centre.
“For example, Northrop Grumman is developing radar systems for the Joint
Strike Fighter (JSF) and the Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control
(AEW&C) aircraft.
“The Defence Science Technology Organisation (DSTO) has been working
with Northrop Grumman on verification of the JSF radar which is arguably the
world’s most advanced and capable fighter aircraft radar.
“This involvement of DSTO will help provide the Australian Government with
greater confidence in JSF capability and our ability to integrate that aircraft
into the broader ADF.”
During a visit to the US Naval Surface Warfare Centre Mr Combet discussed
with US Government and Naval personnel Australian naval projects including
the Future Submarine, Future Frigate and the Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD).
“The Centre is considered the world leader in Maritime technology with
expertise in materials, hydrodynamics, signatures and propeller/propulsion
design.
“Our close relationship with the United States means that we are in a very
privileged position to be cooperating and sharing knowledge on key defence
projects. I look forward to this close relationship continuing into the future.”
Media contacts:
Rod Hilton (Greg Combet):
02 6277 7620 or 0458 276 619
Defence Media Liaison:
02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664
NEWS 
