Qatar has confirmed that it is adding nine Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers to the contract for Typhoon aircraft signed with BAE Systems in December 2017. Delivery of the first Hawk aircraft is targeted for 2021. The contract also includes an initial support package for the Hawk trainers.

The initial contract with Qatar covered the supply of 24 Typhoon aircraft to the Qatar Emiri Air Force along with a bespoke support and training package. This was subject to financing conditions and receipt of first payment. BAE Systems indicated at the time that the agreement included a “clear intention to proceed with the purchase of Hawk aircraft.”

BAE announced the first flight of its Advanced Hawk demonstrator — featuring a new type of pilot display, a redesigned wing and defensive aids — in June 2017.

BAE reports that discussions on the Typhoon deal have progressed, and a number of milestones have been achieved, including the issuing of a Royal Decree relating to Qatar's financing of the contract. The company says that financing discussions are in progress and, when successfully concluded, it is anticipated first payment would be received in the third quarter of 2018.

In other news, the Australian Commonwealth Government has selected BAE Systems as the preferred tenderer to deliver its nine-ship SEA 5000 Future Frigate programme for the Royal Australian Navy.

The overall announced programme is expected to be in the region of $35bn for the design, build and support of the ships. The company will soon commence negotiations with Australia's Department of Defence on the initial design part of the contract, which is expected to be in place by the year end. Production of the first ship is expected to start in early 2020s in South Australia.