17 Apr 2002
BAE Systems today opened its new facility in Canberra, ACT, strengthening its commitment to the Australian
Defence Force (ADF). The site will be the centre of operations for the company's secure military communications
and marketing activities.
Senator the Hon Robert Hill, Minister for Defence, officially opened the new BAE Systems Canberra office today
during an on-site event.
Speaking to guests at the event, the Minister said: "The Australian government applauds the continued investment
by BAE Systems in the Australian defence industry, particularly in the critically important and intellectually
demanding areas of systems, electronics and software.
Mr Jim McDowell, chief executive, BAE Systems Australia said: "Significant decisions are being made right now that
will affect the long term future of the defence industry."
"BAE Systems stands ready to support the ADF and has the demonstrated ability to partner successfully to build and
integrate world class defence systems," he said.
BAE Systems is a global systems company. It builds and maintains warships (Type 45), submarines (Astute and Upholder),
communications suites (for the DDG51), military aircraft (Typhoon, JSF, Hawk Lead-in Fighter) UAV systems (Watchkeeper
and the global hawk ground segment), Electronic Warfare suites (Wedgetail and F22) and artillery and small arms.
"But, for me, most importantly we are world leaders in knitting these systems together. We are focussed on becoming the
leading systems company innovating for a safer world," said Jim McDowell.
During the event, he also acknowledged the Canberra team. "This first class team of people is an important asset both to
BAE Systems and to Australia's defence capability. It is an asset we intend to fully utilise with new business beyond the
current programs.
