Government approves acquisition of replacement aviation fire trucks

Minister for Defence Senator David Johnston today announced the Government has approved the acquisition of a replacement aviation fire truck for the Australian Defence Force’s Titan Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting vehicle fleet.

Senator Johnston said the 28 new aviation fire trucks are capable of aircraft crash rescue and emergency response, and fire fighting support in domestic and deployed environments.

“They will operate alongside the current fleet of Panther fire trucks, which are designed for Australian fixed air bases, while the new smaller vehicles will both complement this capability and provide Defence with a deployable fire fighting response,” Senator Johnston said.

“These new trucks can be deployed by C-130J Hercules aircraft, are highly mobile and can be used at deployed airfields and aircraft crash sites in hostile environments.”

This acquisition is valued in excess of $60 million and will include the associated training and facilities to support the vehicles.

There will be opportunity for Australian industry involvement with the integrated logistic support and the ongoing sustainment of the fleet in local vehicle locations.

“The project will develop an in-country support system that will maximise the amount of Australian industry involvement.

“The proposed support model includes developing a spares warehouse and maintenance facilities, and employment of mobile mechanics for repair and diagnostics,” Senator Johnston said.