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Monday, 23 May 2005
Page: 214


Mr Bevis asked the Minister representing the Minister for Defence, in writing, on 9 March 2005:

(1)   Is the Minister aware of reports that the Joint Strike Fighter’s (JSF) development costs have risen to about $38 billion.

(2)   Is the Minister aware that part of the reported increase is being attributed to the United States Department of Defense’s demand for anti-tampering safeguards to prevent sensitive technologies being passed on to enemies.

(3)   If Australia decides to purchase the JSF, will Australia have access to technology in key areas including the weapons’ guidance and navigation systems in the JSF.


Mrs De-Anne Kelly (Minister for Veterans’ Affairs) —The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable member’s question:

(1)   Yes, additional design effort and extension of the System Development and Demonstration phase of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Program has led to an increase in the cost estimate from US$33 billion to US$40.5 billion.

(2)   The Minister is aware of the United States requirement for anti-tamper software to protect sensitive JSF technologies.  However, the specific element of the breakdown of costs for the increase is not yet known. 

(3)   Defence staff have been provided with detailed classified briefings on the high level of JSF capability that will be offered to Australia to allow us to operate and support the JSF.