25 November 2009
Thales has strengthened its links with Australian industry, signing a Global
Supply Chain Deed with the Defence Material Organisation.
The GSC Deed is part of Defence's Global Supply Chain program, and actively
facilitates opportunities for Australian industry to compete in Thales's global
supply chains and those of the company's major supply partners.
Chris Jenkins, Thales Australia's Managing Director, said the company has a
demonstrated commitment to supporting local industry and opening up
international opportunities.
"Thales has a long and successful track record of working closely with
numerous supply chain partners in Australia, especially in the Small and Medium
Enterprise (SME) sector generating substantial technology-based exports for this
country.
"Thales programs such as the Bushmaster have opened up new local and
international opportunities for our local partners. The supply chain comprises
around 120 Australian SMEs, with more than 100 based in Victoria and 30 in the
Bendigo area. This generates long term revenues for a wide range of local
component manufacturers.
"As we develop new products such as the next generation Hawkei Australian
Light Protected Vehicle, we will open up new markets and deliver growth
opportunities across the board."
"The signing of this Deed reflects the strengthening of our ongoing
commitment, and our significant role as an access point into global
programs.
"However, this commitment also extends beyond sales opportunities and
involves helping SMEs enhance their competitiveness, for example by providing
training using our extensive in-house resources in conjunction with the Skilling
Australia's Defence Industry (SADI) program.
"We are making these training resources available to defence industry SMEs,
and welcome their interest in the program.
"Thales is also committed to supporting industry associations such as the
Australian Industry & Defence Network (AIDN), the Australian Industry Group,
and the Defence Industry Innovation Centre.
"These organisations working across our nation's industry are vital in
preparing Australia for the defence challenges of the future."
About Thales
Thales is a global technology leader for the Aerospace and Space, Defence,
Security and Transportation markets. In 2008, the company generated revenues of
12.7 billion euros (equivalent of AUD 22.1 billion) with 68,000 employees in 50
countries. With its 25,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique
capability to design, develop and deploy equipment, systems and services that
meet the most complex security requirements. Thales has an exceptional
international footprint, with operations around the world working with customers
as local partners.
Thales Australia is a trusted partner of the Australian Defence Force and is
also present in commercial sectors ranging from air traffic management to
security systems and services. Employing around 3,500 people in over 35 sites
across the country, Thales Australia recorded revenues of more than AUD1 billion
in 2008.
Press contacts
Libby Noble
Thales Australia
+61 (0)2 9562 3150
+61 (0)434
155 881
libby.noble@thalesgroup.com.au