Recent discussions with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) regarding future Hawk 127 sustainment highlighted the potential need to reintroduce a HUMS calibration capability at a later stage.
In response, the team explored options that would ensure critical calibration activities could be supported efficiently and cost-effectively, should they be required.
Through this process, the team identified an opportunity to acquire a Hawk Mini Health and Usage Monitoring System Calibration Rig from Canada.
With the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Mk.115 Hawk fleet now retired, the rig was available in near-new condition and represented a highly cost-effective solution, delivering cost avoidance in a fiscally constrained defence environment.
What is a HUMS?
A HUMS Calibration Rig is a specialised test system used to verify, calibrate and troubleshoot aircraft health monitoring sensors and data acquisition units.
It plays an important role in ensuring accurate data collection relating to structural integrity and aircraft operating conditions in critical areas.
The value of securing this capability was reinforced during planning associated with aircraft life extension considerations, including preparation for Hawk R50 servicing.
The R50 is the major scheduled maintenance activity for the Hawk platform, designed to maintain airworthiness and reliability and extend operational life. It is planned to commence from mid 2029.
“The R50 is the most significant scheduled servicing for Hawk, occurring every 16 years or 3,200 flying hours,” Andy Wellings, LIF In Service Support Project Manager, said.
“It involves extensive aircraft dismantling, including major components such as the engine, wing, tailplane and fin,” he said.
The mini calibration rig provides a compact and highly capable solution, supporting calibration of tailplane and fin strain gauges, with remaining gauges calibrated via defined flight profiles.
This approach offers the required functionality while avoiding the cost and footprint of a full-scale rig.
The procurement
Following an introduction facilitated by the BAE Systems UK team, discussions were initiated with the Canadian Government.
The engagement provided valuable experience in working through a government procurement process and progressed to a successful acquisition agreement that included export and shipping arrangements.
Once the procurement pathway was agreed, the team worked closely with internal commercial specialists and supply chain partners to complete the transaction.
The Delegate and RAAF subsequently endorsed the acquisition as a prudent risk-mitigation measure to support future Hawk 127 servicing should the platform remain in service beyond 2032.
To support export licensing and logistics requirements, the team leveraged the broader BAE Systems network, engaging BAE Systems Canada to manage export approval and shipment to RAAF Base Williamtown.
Following a coordinated logistics effort involving road, rail and sea transport, the equipment arrived in Australia and has been positioned within the Hawk team precinct at Williamtown.
Base management engagement ensured the system was accommodated efficiently and is available for future use.
This outcome reflects a collaborative, forward planning approach that strengthens sustainment preparedness while delivering strong value for Defence and ensuring the Hawk platform remains well supported into the future.