Townsville is set to become the attack helicopter ‘capital’ of Australia as the city’s RAAF Base builds up in order to host the Army’s new fleet.
Canberra is spending $700 million on infrastructure and facilities works across Townsville.
This includes building quarters for 16th Aviation Brigade Headquarters personnel, who recently relocated from Brisbane, and the 1st Aviation Regiment, who are relocating from Darwin.
The Darwin regiment is switching to the Boeing-built Apache from the Tiger, which will be phased out of service by 2028.
Other work now under way at the base includes building and renovating hangars, new accommodation; new training and command facilities; a simulation hall for the Apache and Army Aviation Training Centre, and multi-storey car parks.
Assistant Defence Minister says RAAF Base Townsville is a “critical” part of the northern base network.
“This $700m transformation will help ensure Australia’s Defence estate is fit for purpose and ready to support operations.”
He says the projects will also create 275 new jobs and construction is set to inject $375m into the North Queensland economy.
TOWNSVILLE ROLE UPGRADED
Assistant Minister for Northern Australia Nita Green says the role that the base will play is highlighted by the 5th Aviation Regiment’s work in the most recent North Queensland floods.
“These upgrades will support the personnel that support the community. That’s why they are so vital for Townsville.”
The Apache combat helicopter is designed for ground support; based in Townsville, the fleet will operate alongside the Army’s larger CH-47F Chinook fleet.
Boeing Australia will maintain both helicopters at the base, the Defence Department says.
Construction on the facilities is due to finish in 2028.
- Late last year, Defence Housing Australia (DHA) signed a deal with Townsville developers to build at least 420 new homes over seven suburbs within a 30km radius of Lavarack Barracks.
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