Dozens of local jobs will be created in South Australia through a new contract to upgrade the Royal Australian Air Force’s fleet of P-8A Poseidon aircraft.

The Albanese Government has signed a $139.5 million contract with Boeing Defence Australia to upgrade the Poseidon’s software, systems and sensors at RAAF Base Edinburgh, supporting 50 new highly skilled defence industry jobs.

The Poseidon P-8A aircraft is Australia’s maritime patrol aircraft and this critical work will enhance the aircraft’s anti-submarine warfare, maritime strike, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.

These upgrades will also ensure continued interoperability with Australia’s allies and partners.

Boeing Defence Australia will recruit and train apprentices and supply chain trainees to provide P-8A Poseidon support, providing upskilling and pathways for Australians to gain long-term employment in a critical industry.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy:

“This announcement creates 50 new jobs and builds on the existing 283-strong workforce currently employed by Boeing Defence Australia at RAAF Base Edinburgh.

“Investing in this critical upgrade to our P-8A Poseidon fleet will create new opportunities for apprentices to learn valuable skills and forge a career that offers long-term and well-paid employment, while also ensuring our Defence Force is equipped with the capabilities it needs to keep Australians safe.”

Media can access imagery of the P-8A Poseidon aircraft here.