Profile

Qantas Defence Services Pty Ltd (QDS) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Qantas Airways Limited created in 1999 with a specific focus on the Defence Industry. QDS provides a wide range of integrated logistic support of government and military aviation. QDS provide tailored support services for specific contracts using both in-house and Qantas Group capabilities.

Qantas Defence Services has an annual turnover of over $140 million and employs approximately 500 people. It provides maintenance, supply, deep maintenance and training support to a range of major Defence aerospace capability systems, including Special Purpose Aircraft, T56 and Adour propulsion systems and the KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport (both the military-derivative conversion of the A330 to the KC-30A and the weapon system Through Life Support).

The total QDS/Qantas Group capabilities encompass all levels of integrated logistic support including engineering, maintenance, modification, repair, in service monitoring, reliability, planning purchasing and supply.

QDS operates two business units within NSW. Located at RAAF Base Richmond, NSW is a focused business unit specialising in depot level maintenance, repair and modification of C130H Hercules aircraft including structural and mechanical components. Comprehensive engineering, logistic and warehouse services are maintained to fully support the program.

QDS operates a dedicated Propulsion Business Unit at Villawood, NSW for maintenance, repair and overhaul of Rolls Royce T56 and Adour gas turbine engines. The Propulsion Business Unit also undertakes mechanical work for Sikorsky helicopter components. Engine run testing is carried out at the QDS Test Cell at Mascot.

QDS also has a presence in Canberra, ACT where they support the RAAF Special Purpose Aircraft (Prime Minister's Aircraft and other VIP Aircraft) QDS provide conversion and Through Life Support for the MRTT (KC30A) aircraft from Hangar 1 in Brisbane, QLD (conversion centre) and the RAAF Air force base in Amberley (TLS), QLD.