Hundreds of new jobs will be created in Queensland with the Turnbull Government’s announcement that the next generation of the Australian Army’s Combat Reconnaissance will be built in Queensland.
The project will span the next several decades and provide huge ongoing benefits to the Queensland economy, Queensland companies and workers.
The Federal Government will spend $5.2 billion to acquire 211 new vehicles to replace the nation’s ageing light armoured vehicle fleet.
Member for Dickson Peter Dutton said the local area will benefit with Queensland companies winning a major share of the Land 400 Phase 2 investment.
“Over $1.8 billion will be spent in Queensland on the project creating 330 new jobs for the state,” Mr Dutton said.
“It’s great news the key facility will be located in Redbank, near Brisbane. Queensland companies such as NIOA, Penske, G&O Kert, Ferra Engineering, Global Manufacturing Group and Elbit will all receive a boost.
“This project is an exciting opportunity for Australian defence industry to play a vital role in delivering leading edge technology to Australia’s Army,” Mr Dutton said.
Over the 30 year life of the vehicles, Australian industry will deliver two–thirds, or $10.2 billion of the acquisition and sustainment, which will create up to 1450 jobs right across Australia.
Rheinmetall, the company which will build the Boxer CRV, was selected as the supplier after
a comprehensive three year testing process.
The Boxer vehicles will be equipped with high levels of protection, firepower and mobility which will enable sustained operations, varying from peacekeeping to close combat.
This investment in new Army capability is a key part of the Turnbull Government’s commitment to a safe and secure Australia.
The new vehicles will be used at facilities in Enoggera, Townsville, Bandiana,
Adelaide, and Puckapunyal.
The Turnbull Government is also spending around $68 million to upgrade facilities in Queensland to cater for the new vehicles.
For more information, visit www.defence.gov.au/casg/equippingdefence/land400