NEWS ARTICLES

The Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) High Frequency Communication System (DHFCS) is set for a major capability upgrade under a program to be delivered by Babcock Australasia worth AU$877 million over 10 years.

The new contract will see Babcock lead the operation and support of the existing HF capability, while delivering a comprehensive technology upgrade program over the initial 10-year contract period.

Commencing in October 2023 under the JP9101 - Enhanced Defence High Frequency Communications System (EDHFCS) program, the new system will provide Australian and allied armed forces with the ability to securely communicate using voice and data from almost any location across the globe.

David Ruff, Babcock’s Chief Executive Officer Australasia, said Babcock’s strategy and vision is aligned to the needs of the Five Eyes community and its allies – providing secure, robust communications that are resilient and interoperable.

“In a modern threat environment, access to local communication infrastructure or satellite communication cannot be assured," Ruff said.

"Having a communications capability that can work seamlessly with the ADF and its allies is an essential requirement for military operations."

Babcock’s principal partner for the program, Lockheed Martin Australia will support Babcock in the delivery of mission system elements.

Ruff said the EDHFCS upgrade will create high-tech jobs across Australia ensuring world-leading defence capabilities are fostered domestically.

“The project will create more than 150 new jobs, most of which will be located in Adelaide where a Contract Support facility will be established," Ruff said.

“The remainder of staff will be situated across multiple Regional Centres in Exmouth, Wagga Wagga, Townsville, Darwin, as well as an operations support facility Canberra.”

Babcock is exhibiting at AVALON 2023.