The Australian defence industry welcomes the Minister for Defence Industry, Christopher Pyne’s announcement that Lockheed Martin has been selected as the program Combat System Integrator for the Australian Future Submarine Program.
Australian Made Defence spokesperson, Kerryn Smith said that the awarding of this contract was a significant step forward in the program and will boost opportunities for local industry.
“Lockheed Martin will partner with Australian industry to deliver and support the Combat System Integration, this will be significant for Australia’s defence industry supply chain. This program will ensure many businesses can reinvest in themselves and make industry more competitive, ahead of other major Defence projects to come,” said Ms Smith.
“Combat systems are the cornerstone of submarine operations, and it is critical that our submarines have the most capable and up to date technology available to them. The awarding of this contract showcases the capabilities of Australian companies in participating and collaborating on crucial projects.”
Minister Pyne has also announced a three year extension to the Global Supply Chain Program, further bolstering opportunities for local industry.
“The Global Supply Chain program supported by the Prime Defence Contractors here in Australia has been enormously successful and has provided access to export markets and global supply chains for Australia’s defence industry, particularly our SMEs.
“It is also encouraging that yesterday’s announcement was handed down in Thales’ Bendigo facility, highlighting the importance of regional communities in Australia’s future economic prosperity, which will be boosted through this and future defence programs such as Land 400.
“Only if industry continues to invest in its skills and technologies will Australia become globally competitive, and provide continuous opportunities in the long-term.
“Both the GSC and combat system projects will demonstrate capabilities of hundreds of Australia’s defence supply chain businesses, bringing numerous benefits to companies, communities and the national economy.
“We look forward to working together to deliver these key programs that will help us secure Australia’s national security, sovereignty and economy for decades to come,” said Ms Smith.
