SYDNEY, Australia – Northrop Grumman Integrated Defence Services (IDS), a fully-owned Australian subsidiary of Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC), has signed an agreement with Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) for the provision of services in support of the Royal Australian Air Force’s fleet of KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft. Northrop Grumman IDS is the prime contractor for MRTT Through-Life Support (TLS).
“We are excited to have reached this agreement with AFI KLM E&M,” said Ian Irving, chief executive, Northrop Grumman Australia. “Partnerships such as this are an important way for Northrop Grumman to support the Australian Department of Defence’s ‘smart buyer’ philosophy. By leveraging huge commercial supply chains and expertise in order to provide competitive pricing for MRTT maintenance, this agreement will increase the program’s value and effectiveness.”
The agreement will provide the Australian MRTT program with improved access to an experienced, world-class aftermarket organisation. As a result, Northrop Grumman will also have increased access to a worldwide network and a more streamlined process of materiel management solutions leveraging AFI KLM E&M’s global expertise and footprint.
“We are thrilled to enter into this partnership,” said John Parker, vice president and general manager, global logistics and modernization division, Northrop Grumman Technology Services. “With the support of AFI KLM E&M, Northrop Grumman will be even more equipped to execute unparalleled program performance and quality for the Royal Australian Air Force’s KC-30A MRTT fleet.”
“The opportunity to work with Northrop Grumman on the Australian MRTT program is very significant for AFI KLM E&M,” said Fabrice Defrance, senior vice president Commercial, AFI KLM E&M. “We are looking forward to providing the Australian MRTT program with access to our expertise in maintaining new generation and wide-body aircraft including the Airbus A330, the airframe on which the MRTT is based. Our acknowledged expertise on aircraft components and engine support, which combined with Northrop Grumman’s experience in maintenance and systems engineering will provide the Australian government with excellent value in support of the MRTT program.”
The agreement will see AFI KLM E&M provide services to Northrop Grumman, including aircraft component, auxiliary power unit and CF6 80-E1 engine test, repair and overhaul services; ready access to line replaceable unit loans and exchanges; and global line station logistics solutions. It also allows for future extension of support services and general maintenance of other aircraft types.
Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance is a major multi-product MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) provider. With a workforce of over 14,000, AFI KLM E&M offers comprehensive technical support for airlines, ranging from engineering and line maintenance to engine overhaul, aero structure and thrust reverser support, as well as the management, repair and supply of aircraft components, structured around a powerful logistics network. AFI KLM E&M supports almost 1,500 aircraft operated by 200 major international and domestic airlines. www.afiklmem.com.
(Northrop Grumman)