The purpose of the HFMOD is to provide the ADF with a secure, cost-effective information exchange capability for the command and control of deployed forces as a primary survivable system and as a parallel system to satellite communications.
The Modernised High Frequency Communications System consists of a nationwide network of distributed HF radio stations (the Fixed Network) with a central network management facility in Canberra.
Following acceptance of the final fixed network system in April 2010, all work remaining on this system is expected to be completed by early 2011.
Designated mobile platforms will now be upgraded on a progressive basis through to 2016 using products and design material developed under the prime contract with BDA.
The majority of mobile platforms are not included in the prime contract with Boeing and are yet to be contracted.
Some manageable remaining risk relates to the schedule for installation of upgrades into mobile platforms.
Delays in completion of the prime contract work have delayed the start of the mobiles program, but platform availability remains the major schedule risk.
Now finally delivered, some 17 years since industry was first alerted to the requirement and 13 since the prime contract was signed with BDA, the ADF's military high frequency communication system (MHFCS) - the product of the HF Modernisation project - is considered one of the world's most advanced strategic HF communications networks due to its automation levels, range and clarity, traffic volume and connection speed.
The project has cost $413 million to date from approved funding of $663 million.