Defence today released the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the flying operations of the F-35A Lightning II (commonly known as the Joint Strike Fighter) aircraft and is inviting members of the community to comment.
Commander Air Combat Group, Air Commodore Tony Grady said it was important for community members to have their say.
“These documents represent the most comprehensive environmental study ever undertaken by Defence and demonstrates Air Force’s commitment to transparency with the Australian community about Air Force operations, including aircraft noise.
“I encourage people to read the documents. Submissions on the draft EIS can be submitted via the website at www.f35evolution.com.au,” Air Commodore Grady said.
Comments must be received by 5pm on Friday 19 September 2014 to be incorporated in to the final EIS.
The draft EIS compares the environmental impacts between the flying operations of the current F/A?18A/B Hornet and the F?35A aircraft. The EIS process provides an opportunity for the community to provide submissions on the content of the study.
The F-35A will provide Australia with a fifth-generation aircraft, to replace the ageing F/A-18A/B Hornets and enable air superiority into the future.
Australia has committed to 72 F-35A aircraft to be based at RAAF Bases Williamtown (NSW) and Tindal (Northern Territory). The aircraft will visit RAAF Bases Darwin, Pearce, Amberley, Townsville and Edinburgh for training. The first F-35 aircraft will arrive in Australia in late 2018.
Around $1.5 billion in new facilities and infrastructure will be constructed, including at RAAF Base Williamtown in New South Wales and RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory.
Media note:
Community information sessions are planned for August at Williamtown, Darwin, Katherine and Townsville. Details will be published in local newspapers, and will be available at www.f35evolution.com.au or by calling 1800 830 205.
Media contact:
Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999
Issued by Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication,
Department of Defence,
Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999 Fax: 02 6265 6946
