Construction begins on a military aircraft hangar in SA
Works have commenced on the Deep Maintenance and Modification Facility adjacent the Royal Australian Air Force Edinburgh base in northern Adelaide.
BESIX Watpac has been appointed design and construction contractor to deliver one of the largest construction projects ever undertaken by Renewal SA, the Deep Maintenance and Modification Facility (DMMF) adjacent the Royal Australian Air Force Edinburgh base in northern Adelaide.
The BESIX Watpac team has taken possession of the 16-hectare project area where the new 2.1-hectare purpose-built facility will be built.
Construction works have now commenced on the mammoth four bay hangar that will support the maintenance and modification of 737-sized aircraft following sod turning and smoking ceremonies on 5 September.
BESIX Watpac CEO Mark Baker said the project marked an important milestone for the company in South Australia.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with Renewal SA for the first time to deliver the DMMF project – drawing on our extensive experience in delivering aviation and defence projects in South Australia,” Mr Baker said.
“BESIX Watpac is committed to building the best projects together with our people and partners and we look forward to delivering another complex infrastructure project.”
BESIX Watpac is leading the construction of the hangar that will be used to maintain and modify military aircraft operated by the Commonwealth Department of Defence.
The works will occur on land owned by Renewal SA (main building and ancillary works) and connected to land owned by Defence, which includes a tow-way for the aircraft to access the new hangar. Construction works will deliver the aircraft hangar, offices, workshops, stores, amenities areas and plant rooms.
In a Defence Ministers media release, The Hon Pat Conroy, Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery stated, “This $200 million, state of the art facility will allow us to maintain, repair and overhaul RAAF aircraft in north Adelaide, reducing our reliance on offshore maintenance services.”
BESIX Watpac General Manager for Victoria and South Australia, Al Crosby said the team was committed to delivering the best outcome as well as maximising local opportunities.
“Our South Australian team brings specialist knowledge across both industries that will be invaluable throughout project delivery,” Mr Crosby said.
“BESIX Watpac always strives to deliver a lasting positive legacy through the projects we deliver to help secure the future of the construction industry in South Australia. We’ll be engaging local subcontractors where possible as well as working together to provide opportunities for trainees and apprentices.”
About 450 construction jobs are forecast during the two-year build.
Once complete, the operational facility will enhance the Australia’s sovereign capabilities and enable maintenance and modifications to be carried out in Australia rather than sending the planes offshore.
The completed facility will be utilised by Boeing Defence Australia under its contract to conduct maintenance and modification of the P-8A Poseidon and E-7A Wedgetail fleets.
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