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Adelaide-based REDARC Defence Systems has secured one of the biggest contracts the company has received since entering the defence space in 2015, signing a supply contract for Norwegian defence giant Kongsberg.
Kongsberg announced on 13 March that REDARC – which previously produced automotive parts – will make and supply power outlet panels, battery boxes and power distribution units in support of the National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS) for the Australian Army.
Mike Hartas, REDARC defence account manager, said, “REDARC Defence Systems is proud to work with Konsberg on the LAND 19 Phase 7B program in Australia. Kongsberg's approach to Australian industry capability is testament to what can be done when the defence companies and Australian industry want to work together to deliver real capability to the Australian Defence Force.”
LAND 19 Phase 7B achieved first pass government approval in February 2017. Raytheon Australia was appointed limited tender single supplier as prime systems integrator for the capability, for provision of the Raytheon-Kongsberg developed NASAMS.
NASAMS is a highly adaptable mid-range solution for any operational air defence requirement. The system provides the air defender with a tailorable, state-of-the-art defense system that can maximise their ability to quickly identify, engage and destroy current and evolving enemy aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicle and emerging cruise missile threats.
NASAMS is owned and operating by 11 countries, including Australia. According to Raytheon, these include the US, Norway, Finland, Spain, the Netherlands, Oman, Lithuania, Indonesia, Qatar and one undisclosed country.
“The transfer of technology to Australian industry will ensure the capability delivered under LAND 19 Phase 7B will be enduring and supportable in Australia,” added Hartas.
REDARC managing director Anthony Kittel said the company was pleased to secure the contract: "We are playing a long game with our defence strategy and are pleased to get some important runs on the board and build momentum.”
REDARC joins a host of other Australian subcontractors in the NASAMS program, including Daronmont Technologies and Eylex. In the 13 March press release, Kongsberg indicated that additional Australian suppliers would be announced shortly.
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