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Veteran-owned Melbourne company SORD Australia has been awarded a $338,000 contract to develop a concussion reduction helmet that aims to better protect members of the Australian Defence Force.
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Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price announced the Defence Innovation Hub contract with SORD Australia.
“The Morrison government continues to invest in innovation to ensure a smarter and stronger Australian Defence Force by supporting Australian small and medium enterprises to develop technology useful to the warfighter,” Minister Price said.
SORD’s concussion reduction helmet concept seeks to lessen the risk of traumatic brain injuries, which can be caused by concussion, blunt trauma, ballistic and blast events.
“This technology has the potential to enhance individual safety and reduce the long-term effects of concussive injuries on men and women in the Australian Defence Force,” Minister Price said.
“SORD Australia is a fantastic example of how a small, veteran-owned business can make a significant impact to our $200 billion defence industry.”
The Army is currently using tiered combat helmets, which afford protection to the soldier from projectiles, fragmentation and blunt-force impact. The helmets incorporate a ballistic protection shell, suspension and retention systems, and accessory mounts and rails.
The government is investing approximately $640 million in Australian industry through the Defence Innovation Hub to develop innovative technology with Defence applications.
SORD produces industry leading, state-of-the-art tactical gear in the form of tactical nylon accessories and military clothing.
Industry and research organisations can submit innovation proposals through the Defence Innovation Portal at: www.business.gov.au/cdic
