“This contract continues to deliver on the Turnbull government’s commitment to using Australia’s defence expenditure to the benefit of both Australia’s national security interests and the economic health of this important employment sector,” Minister for Defence Industry Christopher Pyne said.

"Developing this kind of indigenous capability – where we can maintain our own military hardware – is critical for our national security and is good for Australian jobs.

“The P-8A is a world class Maritime Patrol and Response aircraft and Australian defence industry support will be a critical enabler to our military’s operational capability in the region.

“Importantly, Australian defence industry involvement in the sustainment of this aircraft will provide regional support for the global P-8A fleet and has the potential to improve opportunities for Australian defence industry participation in future support activities.

“This will showcase Australian defence industry capabilities to the world to ensure they have every opportunity to get involved in the longer term global P-8A support program.”