The ramp up has benefitted the BAE Systems’ Australian supply chain, including ex auto manufacturer Axiom Precision Manufacturing and RUAG Australia, both based in Adelaide.
BAE Systems Australia acknowledges DMTC’s critical supporting role in delivering this important capability. The preparatory work related to process optimisation and technology transfer was directed through DMTC’s collaborative model. DMTC also worked with the company to identify and develop its Australian supply chain.
In 2017, BAE Systems Australia delivered more than 1,700 titanium parts into the F-35 program through Marand. Currently 300 components for the F-35 vertical tail are being produced per month.
BAE Systems has invested significantly in its advanced manufacturing facility, with the support of both the Federal and State Governments.
BAE Systems Chief Executive Gabby Costigan said:
“We work closely with Marand on this and other projects and congratulate the team on achieving this milestone.
“Our involvement in supplying parts for the next generation F-35 has provided the catalyst for a significant investment that has enabled us to expand a bespoke advanced manufacturing capability.
“It has also provided significant opportunities within our Australian supply chain as we will be supplying parts into this program for the next two decades.
