AUSTRALIA APPROVES $1.06BN BATTLEFIELD COMMAND SYSTEM PROJECT

The Government of Australia has approved a A$1.4bn ($1.06bn) project to procure a new battlefield command system for the nation’s army. The system allows commanders to plan, monitor, direct and review operations in real time, according to Australia Minister for Defence Industry Christopher Pyne. Under the Land 200 Tranche 2 project, Elbit Systems of Australia will improve the battle management system software delivered under Land 200 Tranche 1. Harris Communications Australia has been selected to deliver the tactical communications network, including encrypted radios, as part of the project.

With this project, Harris’ Australian workforce is expected to increase by 70 to 120 positions in Brisbane and another 15 new positions will be established by its major subcontractor, Boeing Defence Australia. Elbit’s Australian workforce to support Land 200 will grow by 70 to 122, with 67 in Brisbane and 55 in Melbourne. The Australian industry is expected to invest around $215m in the acquisition, which is expected to nearly double to around $400m during project sustainment.