Queensland Deputy Premier Hon. Steven Miles, today officially opened Northrop Grumman Australia's newly-modernised Brisbane Maintenance and Modification Centre (BMMC), a major facility for the sustainment of the Royal Australian Air Force's (RAAF) aviation capability. In attendance were key RAAF stakeholders and Kathy Warden, chair, chief executive officer and president, Northrop Grumman and Christine Zeitz, general manager, Asia Pacific region, Northrop Grumman.

Northrop Grumman’s $20 million investment in the BMMC modernisation project created 300 local jobs, and directly involved over 500 people. The facility conducts continuous through life support to key RAAF fleets and will engage an ongoing Northrop Grumman Australia workforce of around 100 employees, with the new infrastructure capacity now allowing for a significant expansion.

“Queensland has cemented itself as a powerhouse for Australia’s Defence industry and our capabilities are quickly growing. Two thirds of the Australian Army operates out of Queensland and this is just another feather in our cap,” said Deputy Premier Miles. “Northrop Grumman Australia’s facility here in Brisbane is just another great example of the close collaboration between Defence and Australian Industry, supporting an important ADF capability, as well as providing significant investment and generating good, skilled jobs for the Queensland workforce”

“It’s been terrific to have the Deputy Premier open this strategically important facility, delivering sustainable support to the RAAF mission. Our sustainment and modernisation program is a key element of our on-going commitment and investment to the State,” said Christine Zeitz. “Northrop Grumman’s growing sustainment work at the BMMC has enabled us to establish an apprenticeship program providing a pipeline of skilled Queensland engineers underpinning the company’s ability to deliver Advanced Technology programs in the coming years. A world class skilled local workforce with genuine and attractive career options, in partnership with the Queensland Government, is a critical driver of future joint mission success.”