By Andrea Shalal
WASHINGTON, Dec 8 (Reuters) - Lockheed Martin Corp on Tuesday said it had won a seven-year contract worth A$1.2billion ($867 million) to train the next generation ofAustralia's military pilots, with options for up to 25 yearsthat could expand the deal's value.
Lockheed beat out Britain's BAE Systems Plc, whichcurrently holds the Australia pilot training contract.
The contract calls for Lockheed to deliver 49 Pilatus PC-21aircraft, seven flight simulators, a modern learning environmentfor students, updated courseware and other logistical support,the company said in a statement.
Lockheed said it would train pilots for the Royal AustralianAir Force, Royal Australian Navy and the Australian Army, withcovered aircraft to include Lockheed's F-35 fighter jet andMH-60R helicopters, Tiger Armed Reconnaissance helicopters andMRH-90 helicopters.
The first courses will begin in early 2019 with an annualintake of up to 165 trainee pilots, allowing the AustralianDefense Forces to expand the number of pilot graduates from 77to 105 pilots each year, the Australian government said in astatement. ($1 = 1.3835 Australian dollars) (Reporting by Andrea Shalal, editing by G Crosse)