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The Redback infantry fighting vehicle is being prepared for testing in Romania, according to defence manufacturer Hanwha Defense Australia.
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The Redback IFV has previously been involved in trials in Australia, South Korea, and Poland according to the HDA statement published on 30 June.
The IFV is one of two tenders currently under consideration as part of the Australian Department of Defence’s infantry fighting vehicle project (LAND 400 Phase 3).
HDA managing director Richard Cho said Australia will be the centre of excellence for the Redback globally if the platform is successful in LAND 400 Phase 3.
“Hanwha, thanks to its work in South Korea and internationally, has expertise across a range of technologies and platforms that the DSR has identified a priority,” he said during a speech at the Australian Defence Magazine Congress in June.
“The expansion of the global business with the recent purchase of the old DSME shipbuilding business now known as Hanwha Ocean, is one of the largest shipbuilders in the world.
“The DSR calls for an immediate focus on maritime capabilities and guided weapons and explosive ordnance. AUKUS partners in Lockheed Martin and Raytheon will lead this push on GWEO.
“But there are other players in Australia that can support Defence and their lead partners in delivering capability, with sovereignty, as the push forward towards minimum viable capability is strengthened.
“After all, in the exact words of the DSR, ‘This necessitates a managed, but nevertheless focused, sense of urgency. It’s clear that a business-as-usual approach is not appropriate’.”
HDA has established a Hanwha Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence next to Avalon Airport in Geelong to build Huntsman self-propelled artillery system family of vehicles for Australia.
Partnerships have also been set up with Deakin University, The Gordon, Geelong Manufacturing Council, Victorian government, City of Greater Geelong, and organisations like Soldier On Australia, Cancer Council Australia, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood.
