The Tasmanian Government is welcoming a large slice of the defence spending pie for the state, creating 50 jobs.
North West Coast manufacturers including Elphinstone and Penguin Composites will share in a $7 billion tender for Redback armoured vehicles, described by Clark MP and Defence Industries Minister Madeleine Ogilvie as the biggest Tasmania has ever seen.
“This builds upon the existing work that these innovative local companies were already doing with Hanwha on the LAND 8116 Huntsman Self-Propelled Howitzer project, which until today was the State’s biggest defence contract win,” said Ms Ogilvie.
“Hanwha’s decision to involve Tasmanian industry on these types of contracts is a clear demonstration that our advanced manufacturing capabilities and commitment to quality are being noticed and taken seriously.”
At a cost of between $5 billion and $7 billion, the LAND 400 Phase 3 project will be one of the largest capability acquisitions in Army’s history.
Replacing the M113 armoured personnel carriers, which were acquired in 1964, the first Redback will be delivered in early 2027.
With its latest-generation armour, cannon and missiles, they will provide the protection, mobility and firepower required to transport and protect soldiers in close combat, giving them the highest chance of achieving their mission and returning safely.
