Mitchell Johnson says he's older, wiser, stronger and has a burning desire to prove he can once again be a match winner for Australia.
Johnson believes he's ready to show he's learned from the mistakes of his forgettable 2009 tour of England.
The left-armer's previously dynamic pace bowling went to water four years ago as he struggled to cope with the pressure of a family dispute and the abuse from English fans.
"I did learn a lot from that last tour over there," Johnson told AAP on Wednesday.
"For me now, there is really no fear going over there because I've experienced it all.
"That was the toughest it's been for me on the cricket field and off, so I've been able to experience that and learn from it.
"I still do have that burning desire to be part of an Ashes winning side."
Johnson was again targeted by English fans during the recent Champions Trophy one-day tournament but showed a far thicker skin to perform well.
He made a strong Test return against South Africa and Sri Lanka last season but was overlooked for the Ashes following one fruitless outing in the 4-0 series whitewash in India.
The break has allowed Johnson to improve his strength, fitness and bowling technique.
Now 31, the Perth-based quick is again working closely with Dennis Lillee and has lengthened his run-up to improve his rhythm and also added more variety to his repertoire.
"Another thing is not trying to bowl flat-stick every ball," said Johnson, who boasts 205 wickets at 30.93 in 51 Tests.
"Although I'm not trying to compare myself to the great Dennis Lillee, he did say that when he got his back injury it changed everything for him and he worked on different things like cutters and out-thinking the batsmen while still having that fast ball up your sleeve."
Despite pleas from Perth Scorchers coach Justin Langer to remain at the WACA, Johnson has signed to play with champions Brisbane Heat in next season's Big Bash League.
The competition's leading free-agent had a one-year Heat contract last season but never suited up due to national commitments.
Johnson's signing was announced on Wednesday along with the retention of gloveman Chris Hartley, rising batsman Joe Burns and towering fast bowler Nick Buchanan.
The Heat also secured English one-day and T20 batsman-keeper Craig Kieswetter as their second foreign player, joining New Zealander Dan Vettori.
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