Boeing and Ferra Engineering Extend Partnership for JDAM ER and Powered JDAM Applications
Boeing and Australian industry partner Ferra Engineering have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to continue their production of Joint Direct Attack Munition Extended Range (JDAM ER) wing kits. This strategic agreement also includes the exploration of applications for Powered JDAM, a highly capable derivative of JDAM that can travel over 300 nautical miles. This expansion of their partnership is aligned with the Australian Defence Force’s commitment to enhancing sovereign weapons capability.
Under the memorandum, Ferra Engineering, based in Brisbane, will remain Boeing’s global supplier of the 500-pound JDAM ER wing kits for an extended period, until 2028. The collaboration between the two parties reflects the success achieved by Australia’s Defence Science and Technology Group in developing these wing kits, which are produced by Ferra Engineering in collaboration with their US partners. This partnership is a testament to the effectiveness of Australia’s Defence Science and Technology Group’s Global Supply Chain (GSC) Program, which has played a crucial role in enabling the production of JDAM ER wing kits and now opens up opportunities for Powered JDAM.
The Powered JDAM is expected to significantly increase the effective range of the munition, while also offering cost-effective solutions to meet various defense needs worldwide. Bob Ciesla, Vice President of Boeing Precision Engagement Systems, emphasized the value of these advancements, stating that they will effectively and affordably address a wide range of defense requirements across the globe.
Air Marshal Leon Phillips, Chief of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance, praised the collaborative efforts of Australia’s Defence Science and Technology Group, Boeing, and Ferra Engineering. He viewed this project as a successful example of Australian industry working hand in hand with the defense sector to support the United States, one of their key allies.
The JDAM ER kits, developed by Boeing in collaboration with Australia’s Defence Science and Technology Group, have tripled the effective range of the standard JDAM. These kits serve as a low-cost option that converts existing munitions into highly accurate and guided smart munitions.
Aaron Thompson, Managing Director of Ferra Engineering, expressed his pride in the extended partnership between his company and Boeing, highlighting their 12-year collaboration in producing this critical defense capability. Thompson believes that this strengthened partnership will not only secure future production but also pave the way for continued innovation, such as the development of Powered JDAM.
This expanded collaboration further enhances the capacity of Australian industry to meet the future needs of the Australian Defence Force and support its priorities in deterring aggression and defending the nation and its allies in an ever-evolving threat environment, according to Thompson.
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In summary, Boeing and Ferra Engineering’s partnership extension for the production of JDAM ER wing kits marks a significant milestone in enhancing long-range defense capabilities. The exploration of Powered JDAM applications further demonstrates their commitment to innovation and meeting defense needs efficiently and affordably. This collaboration aligns with the Australian Defence Force’s goals and strengthens the ability of Australian industry to contribute to national defense priorities.
