Article Posted on : - Jan 20, 2010

737 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft. Boeing Photo.

CANBERRA (BNS): The Australia's Defence Materiel Organisation has awarded Boeing a five-year In-Service Support contract for Project Wedgetail, Australia's 737 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) programme.

According to a news release by the Boeing, the contract is worth approximately $600 million.

Boeing will be providing acquisition, programme management, integration and engineering services.

It will be supported by Boeing Defence Australia on maintenance, engineering and training or the Royal Australian Air Force's (RAAF) fleet of six Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft. Northrop Grumman Corporation will provide support for their Multi-Role Electronically Scanned radar, as reported in the release.

"Establishing a robust support program for the Wedgetail aircraft will help ensure the long-term success of the AEW&C system," said Maureen Dougherty, AEW&C vice president for Boeing.

Project Wedgetail consists of six 737 AEW&C aircraft and associated ground support segments.

The 737 AEW&C system is a unique blend of high-performance aircraft and mission equipment. The platform features the Boeing Next-Generation 737-700, an aircraft offering 21st century avionics, navigation equipment, and flight deck.