DPR 23/97 Monday, January 20, 1997

DEFENCE TO PURCHASE MISSILE ALERTING AND CUEING SYSTEMS

The Minister for Defence, Mr Ian McLachlan, today announced the signing of a contract with British Aerospace Australia Limited to provide a radar alerting and cueing system for the Army's existing RBS 70 missile (a portable land to air guided weapon) system.

The radar system will detect aircraft and send information about the aircraft's coordinates via an audio signal to a ground operator. A computer screen will show an air picture which will enable the operator of the missile system to put its sights on the aircraft.

"The radar systems will cost about $10 million and are expected to be received in June 1998 and to be in use by August 1998," Minister McLachlan said. "They will provide operators of the RBS 70 missile with timely warning of the approach of aircraft and an accurate indication of the aircraft's position."

Clip-On Night Devices have also been purchased through a contract with Bofors Australia signed in March 1996.

"These, in conjunction with the radar system, will allow the RBS 70 missile systems to be used at night, giving them an 24 hour operational capacity," Minister McLachlan said.

It is expected that the Clip-On Night Devices will be in service by March 1998 and they and the radar system linked to the RBS 70 missile will be used by 16 Air Defence Regiment at Woodside, South Australia.

"Both these new purchases will improve the air defence capabilities of the Australian Defence Force," Minister McLachlan said.

The RBS 70 missile system has been used by the Australian Army since 1985 and was deployed to protect ships in 1991 during 'Operation Dessert Storm'.

Further information:
Departmental Lieutenant Colonel Gary Collinson (06) 265 5667

Minister's Office Jim Bonner (06) 277 7800