Science, engineering and technology firm KBR has been appointed as the Capability Life Cycle Manager for the RAN’s amphibious and replenishment ships.
The $130 million contract will see KBR sustain Navy’s Canberra class landing helicopter docks, Supply class auxiliary oilers and landing ship dock, HMAS Choules – all at Sydney’s Garden Island Defence Precinct.
This is the first appointment of a multi-class Capability Life Cycle Manager. Defence said that appointing a multi-class Capability Life Cycle Manager will more effectively meet capability requirements, best manage resources, and provide value for money and consistency between like asset classes for Defence.
The contract is expected to create around 70 new direct jobs, and more than 200 indirect jobs throughout the supply chain according to Defence.
“The sustainment of Navy’s amphibious and replenishment ships into the future is critical to securing Australia’s maritime trade and safeguarding Australians and their economic interests," said Pat Conroy, Minister for Defence Industry.
“Growing our sovereign naval shipbuilding industrial capability is not just good for jobs, it’s imperative for our national security.”
In a statement KBR said that the company will work with other Australian based companies including Babcock Australasia, Atlantic & Peninsula and Goal Group.