Babcock awarded eight-year contract by Australian Border Force
The new contract will see Babcock introduce two new Airbus H145s and 16 new staff to support its operations in the Torres Strait
Babcock Australasia has signed a new $250 million, eight-year maritime security contract with the Australian Border Force, continuing an existing partnership that has run for 30 years.
Babcock will continue to provide “critical deterrence, prevention, and response” operations under the contract from a base on Horn Island, in the Torres Strait.
The contract will see the company deliver two new, specially configured Airbus H145 D3 helicopters to the Australian Border Force, alongside aircrew and maintenance staff.
The rotorcraft will be fitted with sensors, mission management systems, and long-range tanks to upgrade mission capabilities, and are due to enter service in September 2026.
Babcock will also recruit 16 new staff, including pilots, surveillance crew, and engineers, to meet the requirements of the new contract.
“Safeguarding our borders is critical to ensuring national security,” said Andrew Cridland, CEO of Babcock Australasia. “Babcock has been an integral and trusted provider to the Australian Border Force for three decades, ultimately keeping our nation safe and secure.”
Babcock was previously awarded a contract in 2023 to provide helicopter emergency medical services and search and rescue support in the Torres Strait.