Annual Report 2004-05

Approved Major Capital Equipment Projects

Top 30 Projects by 2004-05 Expenditure

JP 2043 High Frequency Modernisation

Prime contractor: Boeing Australia Ltd

This project will replace naval high-frequency radio stations at Canberra, Darwin, Exmouth, Sydney, Cairns and Perth and the Air Force high-frequency radio stations at Sydney, Townsville, Darwin and Perth. The new network will provide enhanced high-frequency radio communications capabilities and compatible high-frequency equipment in selected ADF mobile platforms. The project will deliver the new capability in two stages. The first stage replaced and rationalised existing facilities. The second stage will provide increased levels of automation, improved capability, enhanced security and survivability and reduced reliance on staff, and will incorporate the new equipment into the mobile platforms.

Contract acceptance, including system integration, system-testing and acceptance of the first stage, occurred in October 2004. The transition of the Navy and the Air Force's radio network operational capability and staff to the new integrated system commenced in the fourth quarter of 2004. The second stage will be introduced progressively between 2005 and 2008, with installation into mobile platforms potentially extending to 2010. The preliminary design review for the second stage is scheduled for completion by September 2005.

The project achieved its 2004-05 estimate.

This project contributes to the Command of Operations capability.