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Babcock Australasia has signed a $250 million, eight-year contract with the Australian Border Force, extending a 30-year partnership to safeguard Australia’s northern approaches.
Under the agreement, Babcock will deliver two new Airbus H145 D3 helicopters, equipped with advanced sensors, mission management systems and long-range fuel tanks, enhancing surveillance and response capability in the strategically critical Torres Strait.
The contract also includes provision of air crews and ongoing aircraft maintenance.
Operating from Horn Island, Babcock’s all-weather airborne service supports multi-agency operations, helping deter illegal fishing, unauthorised maritime arrivals and marine pollution. The new aircraft are expected to enter service in September 2026.
To support the expanded capability, Babcock will recruit 16 additional staff, including pilots, surveillance crew and engineers. The move also underlines the company’s ongoing commitment to local engagement, workforce development and infrastructure in the Torres Strait region.
Babcock Australasia CEO Andrew Cridland said the contract reinforced the company’s long-standing role in national security.
“Safeguarding our borders is critical to ensuring Australia’s security,” Cridland said. “These state-of-the-art aircraft bring world-class surveillance technology to our northern approaches. We are proud of our three-decade partnership with the Australian Border Force and our ongoing support of the Torres Strait community.”
Babcock has provided airborne services to the Australian Border Force since 1995, making it a trusted partner in maintaining Australia’s border security and maritime safety.
