SIIGNIIFIICANT ROLE:: RAAF P--8A Poseiidon aiirrcrrafftt wiillll operratte outt off Townsviilllle afftterr exttensiion off att Garrbutttt.. Piictturre:: CPL CRAIIG BARRETT

tthe rrunway ONE of the Australian Defence Force’s most advanced aircraft will soon be able to operate out of Townsville for the first time.

Tender documents reveal RAAF Base Garbutt will undergo significant work to extend its capability, including a runway extension, widening and strengthening of taxiways, airfield maintenance works, and a new aircraft rinse facility.

An ADF official confirmed the redevelopment would allow the P-8A Poseidon, Australia’s latest military aircraft, to land at RAAF Base Garbutt.

The Government’s $5.2 billion commitment to 15 of the P-8A Poseidon has been labelled by the Royal Australian Air Force as “an important part of Australia’s future maritime patrol and response strategy” due to cutting-edge technology enabling antisubmarine warfare; maritime and overland intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; electronic support; and supporting search and rescue missions. It’s understood aircraft of similar size to the P-8A Poseidon can already land in Townsville; however, due to the military-purposed aircraft fuel carriage capability it is much heavier, requiring airfields to suit.

While the ADF said the expansion works had no direct link to the Australian Singaporean training facility deal, a spokesman said RAAF Base Garbutt may be used as needed.

“Aircraft

Singapore training at supporting the Armed Forces Greenvale may use RAAF Base on a temporary said.

Former army officer and defence industry businessman Mick Reilly said the expansion was a positive sign for Townsville’s role in the defence landscape.

“It’s a good way of future proofing Defence’s commitment to North Queensland,” he said. “This will potentially help the ADF and other forces, including Singapore, for future generations of aircraft as they should require.”

Townsville Enterprise Townsville basis,” she CEO Patricia O’callaghan said the importance of the expansion could not be overstated and would provide economic opportunities.

“This investment not only reaffirms Townsville’s important strategic role in the Australian Defence landscape but also presents new opportunities to local business in broadening their skills and exposure to new Defence work in our back yard.

“This is an opportunity for our businesses to be at the forefront of the northern Defence agenda.”