You laugh at the RFP being 1000 pages...the responses were more than 6000!
There had to be options for a second platform for BFTS, plus a non military location (e.g. Tamworth, West Sale etc) for ab initio training.
Team 21 - LockMart, Pilatus, Hawker Pacific - has offered the PC-21 and has modelled its offering on the Basic Wings Course scheme it conducts for Singapore at Pearce. General feeling is PC-21 has always been the RAAF's favoured platform, and there would be advantages in sharing sustainment and facilities with the Singas at Pearce. Questions about whether it is a bit too sporty for for screening/BFTS are valid, although its FCS and engine can be de-tuned if required.
The T-6C is offered by BAE, Beechcraft and CAE, and despite sharing a common airframe, its systems have long moved on from those in the PC-9. The T-6 has a bigger international build run and thus spares market to draw from, and is probably a more benign handler too.
The current 4SQN FAC platforms are training platforms ONLY to train JTACs or fast-FACs. They are not designed to be operationally deployed, and the new type will continue this role. They only need to be able to shoot smoke markers and carry drop tanks.
Down-select is expected before Xmas, with contract signature in 2Q 2015.