Defence invests in pilot safety

The Australian Defence Force will invest $129 million over the next 10 years on its search and rescue capability to protect RAAF pilots, Defence Minister Robert Hill announced recently.

Adelaide-based CHC Helicopters has won the contract to provide vital search and rescue (SAR) helicopter support services for fighter and training aircraft. The contract was signed at a ceremony at RAAF Glenbrook today. Defence Minister Robert Hill said the contract was a significant investment in the safety of Defence pilots who may need urgent attention in the case of an emergency in-flight evacuation.

"The Australian Defence Force invests heavily in training and fighter aircraft that are fitted with ejection seats for use in the event of an emergency," Senator Hill said. "These aircraft often operate over remote and rugged terrain and open seas, and helicopter support needs to be available to recover aircrew as soon as possible after an ejection. "To achieve this, the helicopters must be responsive and capable of search and recovery in most weather conditions by day or night."

The SAR helicopters are primarily based at RAAF Bases East Sale, Pearce, Tindal and Williamtown, which are the principle locations for the ADF's aircraft equipped with ejection seats. "The contract will also provide benefits to the Republic of Singapore Air Force pilot training contingent operating out of RAAF Base Pearce, Western Australia, as well as ongoing regional employment opportunities in local communities across four states," Senator Hill said. CHC Helicopters have supplied SAR helicopter support services to the Royal Australian Air Force for the past 10 years.