World-class Wedgetail comms capability recognised

The team behind the development of a world-leading wideband satellite communication technology for the Air Force E-7A Wedgetail fleet has been recognised at the annual EngTech24 Defence conference on November 27.

CAPTION: An Air Force E-7A Wedgetail in-flight. Story by Chloe Mackrell. Photo by Aircraftman Campbell Latch.

The team was announced as the ‘Sustainment Team of the Year’ for their role in the system’s design, development and delivery.

The Wideband Airborne Satellite Communications Program team, comprising Defence and Boeing personnel, worked in close collaboration to implement this significant advancement in satellite capability that will keep Australia and its allies at the cutting edge of defence technology.

Head of Aerospace Systems Division Air Vice-Marshal Graham Edwards said the accolades were richly deserved.

“These achievements are a reflection of the team’s innovative, proactive and agile approach to the project, which has ensured the technology has been delivered to the warfighter and introduced into operational service at pace, harnessing ‘speed to capability’,” he said.

From concept to delivery within a 15-month period, the team also engaged local industry to manufacture key structural components, and motivated their accelerated delivery through direct engagement.

“The team’s success also highlights the importance of fostering effective stakeholder relationships and maintaining close industry collaboration in delivering strategic defence capability,” Air Vice-Marshal Edwards said.

The E-7A Wedgetail aircraft provides Australia with one of the most advanced airspace battle management capabilities in the world. The Wedgetail’s ability to coordinate a joint air, sea and land battle in real time significantly increases the effectiveness of the ADF.

The introduction of the advanced satellite technology allows the E-7A to communicate more effectively with other battlespace defence capabilities.

“This breakthrough in innovation has been pivotal in strengthening Australia’s defence readiness and supports the strategy of denial – bolstering its capacity to respond swiftly to emerging threats,” Air Vice-Marshal Edwards said.

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