Boeing has selected Australian small business Axiom Precision Manufacturing to produce crew doors for AH-64E Apache attack reconnaissance helicopters.
Under the multi-year contract, Axiom will manufacture the components and assemble the doors for global customers’ Apaches at its facility in South Australia.
It’s the second Apache export contract for Axiom, which was enabled with support from Boeing’s participation in Australia’s Global Supply Chain Program.
In March 2023, Boeing announced the precision machining and advanced manufacturing business would supply machined parts for the Australian Army’s future fleet of 29 Apaches.
“In the near future, Australian, allied and partner nation crews will climb aboard the latest Apache aircraft built together with Australia,” said vice president of Boeing Attack Helicopter Programs, Christina Upah.
“We are honoured to work hand-in-hand with Axiom to continue advancing the Apache for Australia and our customers around the world.
“Axiom has demonstrated their ability to meet our stringent safety and quality requirements as a supplier on the Boeing CH-47 Chinook program, and this second Apache contract underscores our confidence in Australia’s defence industry to support our global supply chain.”
Axiom general manager, Craig Maynard, said they will expand their operations and grow their workforce by 15 per cent as a result of the contract.
“This contract is an amazing opportunity for us to showcase our precision manufacturing and assembly capabilities,” said Maynard.
“The program will provide multiple training and apprenticeship opportunities, and we’ll be supporting the MRO&U Sovereign Defence Industrial Priority through the introduction to Australia of a new Hydroform press capability.
“The awarding of this contract clearly shows that Australian SMEs can compete in a global supply chain.”
This latest contract grows the Australian industrial content on Apache production and support programs following last year’s announcement of multiple work packages for Australian suppliers.
Signed in May 2022, Australia is the 18th global Apache customer through a Foreign Military Sales order for 29 AH-64E aircraft.
Currently, there are more than 1,290 Apaches in operation worldwide.