Australian industry to deliver new air defence system for ADF

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Defence has announced an acquisition contract with Raytheon Australia to provide the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with new short range ground based air defence capability.

Under the agreement, Raytheon Australia will act as the prime systems integrator for the new air defence capability, which combines world-leading Australian radar technology with a highly effective air defence system.

The company’s newly-established Centre for Joint Integration in Adelaide will be used for the design, manufacture and assembly of some key elements of the NASAMS system, contributing to the creation of at least 100 Australian jobs across the life of the capability.

Canberra-based company CEA Technologies will also contribute to the project with the design and manufacture of advanced radars that will be integrated with Australian designed and built vehicles.

Minister for Defence, Linda Reynolds said the contract is part of the Government’s commitment to provide the Australian Defence Force with the best capability to defend Australia’s national interests.

“This capability will contribute to the protection of our servicemen and women from modern airborne threats and be based on the proven Raytheon/Kongsberg National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS) which is used by numerous countries, including the United States,” Ms Reynolds added.

“I’m delighted that Australia’s most innovative technologies will be used as an integral part of one of the world’s best short range ground based air defence systems under Land 19 Phase 7B.

“Australian industry will continue to play a vital role in the $1.5 billion acquisition, which will replace the Army’s existing RBS-70 system.”

Image credit: https://www.raytheon.com