RAAF tests Dura-Base technology for airfield damage repair capability

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has conducted a series of trials using Dura-Base technology to test its airfield damage repair (ADR) capability.

Dura-Base are heavy duty mats that interlock together to give aircraft a continuous and stable surface while protecting the ground below. 

A special trial of the innovative temporary surface was coordinated by Air Force Headquarters’ Air Capability Enablers (ACE) Branch, and conducted at RAAF Base Tindal by a team from 65 Airbase Recovery Squadron. The small team also involved personnel from United States Air Force (USAF) airbase recovery and engineering squadrons.

According to the trial team, Dura-Base has “real potential” in supporting the air power capability of the RAAF.

Innovation transforming air operations in Australia’s north! #AusAirForce is testing Dura-Base, a heavy-duty pavement system that interlocks to create a stable surface for aircraft. This breakthrough not only boosts air power but also safeguards the ground beneath. pic.twitter.com/S0W3zs8tsr— Royal Australian Air Force (@AusAirForce) November 27, 2024 “A 2000-square-metre apron was built in a matter of days and then successfully tested by a 75 Squadron F-35. This was the first known use of Dura-Base for a fifth generation aircraft,” construction lead Flying Officer Georgia Foristal said in a statement.

Squadron Leader Sean Jamieson of ACE Branch said the product was initially designed as a temporary load-bearing work platform system on low-strength soils by the oil-drilling industry. However, the use of Dura-Base has now extended to other applications.

“This includes the US Army Corps of Engineers testing the technology in 2007 and revealing it could cater for very heavy C-17 wheel loads,” Jamieson said.

“Because of its performance, Dura-Base was an ideal product to trial as a rapid aircraft taxiway and apron expansion capability for temporary operations in areas normally difficult for expedient pavement construction due to remoteness,” Jamieson added.

Jamieson also said that Dura-Base enhanced the existing rapid temporary pavement surface capability, which currently uses AM2 matting. 

“Although AM2 matting has been successfully used since the 1960s, Dura-Base was demonstrated to be faster and easier to install,” he said, adding that the technology is a “very promising” ADR capability for Australia that will be used in a number of future applications.

The Dura-Base trial continues the successful interoperable delivery between Australia and the US, which remains a key part of collaboration between the two air forces.

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