AUD$45m Bushmaster Contract a Win for Australian-made Defence Capability

Thales Australia welcomes the Albanese Government’s commitment to invest AUD$45m to build an additional 15 Bushmaster PMVs at Thales’ Protected Vehicle Centre of Excellence in Bendigo.

Thales’ Bendigo site is one of Australia’s critical national assets, manufacturing Bushmasters that are combat-proven and currently in use in 9 countries, including Ukraine.

The additional 15 Bushmasters announced today will facilitate command and control of Army’s High Mobility Artillery Rocket System long-range fires regiment; accelerating the delivery of the first land-based long-range fires capability for the ADF.

Jeff Connolly, CEO, Thales Australia and New Zealand said:  

“Thales Australia commends the Australian Government for its commitment to supporting regional industry and jobs, and ensuring the ADF is equipped to deter potential threats and keep Australia safe.”

“This announcement is a vote of confidence in the workers at Thales’ Protected Vehicle Centre of Excellence in Bendigo, and in the Bushmasters they have made for more than 20 years.”

Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP said:

“I am delighted to be back in Bendigo to announce a further $45 million investment in the region, with the production of an additional 15 Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles. This additional investment in Bendigo is another example of the Albanese Government’s commitment to a future made in Australia.”