Boeing delivers Chinook maintenance training devices to Australian Army

  Boeing delivers Chinook maintenance training devices to Australian Army Boeing has teamed up with subcontractor Kratos Defense & Security Solutions and the Capability, Acquisition and Sustainment Group to equip the Australian Army with the most sophisticated Chinook maintenance training system outside of the United States at Swartz Barracks Oakey. Australia’s future Army Chinook maintenance technicians will now learn their trade using a suite of cutting-edge training devices that combine the Chinook airframe with simulated avionics systems for a virtually immersive training experience. Boeing Defence Australia vice president and managing director Darren Edwards officially opened the new facility alongside the Australian Army Chief, Lieutenant General Rick Burr AO, DSC, MVO, and Brigadier Jeremy King as part of the Australian Army’s Aviation Corps Golden Jubilee celebrations. “As we look back on 50 years of the Australian Army Aviation Corp, it is fitting that today we also look to the future and celebrate a modern facility that will train the women and men of the Corps for many years to come,” said Edwards. Brigadier Jeremy King said, “The Army Aviation capability continues to rely on the vital support of Australian Industry and its experienced and professional staff.” The new facility includes a Chinook Avionics Trainer (CAT), two Maintenance Blended Reconfigurable Avionics Trainers (MBRAT) and a Chinook Mechanical Training Aid. As the only training facility of its kind in the region, there is opportunity to provide training support to coalition Chinook operators. In collaboration with the Australian Army Aviation Training Centre, Boeing Defence Australia led the acquisition and integration of the CAT and MBRAT devices in partnership with its subcontractor Kratos Defense & Security Solutions.  Boeing will continue to support the training centre with a team of instructors providing training and technical support on the devices under the newly consolidated Chinook Integrated Support Services contract.