Raytheon Australia has unveiled a first-of-its-kind advanced electronic warfare tactical engagement vehicle during a reveal ceremony with the South Australian government.
The ceremony was attended by SA’s Treasurer and Minister for Defence and Space Industries, Stephen Mullighan, to officially unveil the capability at Raytheon’s Centre for Joint Integration.
The vehicle is expected to provide testing and training assistance to support the development of local innovation and sovereign electronic warfare solutions in Australia. Electronic warfare is expected to play a critical role in modern military operations in contested environments.
“Today with Raytheon Australia and REDARC Defence & Space, we unveiled the nation’s first advanced electronic warfare testing vehicle developed right here in South Australia,” Minister Mullighan said.
“The electronic warfare tactical engagement vehicle is a fantastic example of local industry collaboration and innovation.
“This crucial asset will drive local innovation and the development of homegrown advanced EW technologies and capabilities.
“It will ensure our defence industry continues to play a critical role in protecting Australia and its national interests.”
Raytheon Australia managing director Ohad Katz said it was an honour to have the unveiling attended by Minister Mulligan.
“A great example of how local industry collaboration and local talent can develop capabilities to support the Defence mission,” he said.
“So proud of our team of graduates, interns and senior engineers, and grateful for the support of REDARC Defence and Space, for turning the concept into reality.”
The custom-built vehicle was developed at Raytheon Australia’s Mawson Lakes facility, in collaboration with South Australian company REDARC Defence & Space, which created and installed the vehicle power subsystem and provided critical modifications to support electronic warfare equipment and operational needs.
Last year, REDARC was able to expand its workforce after securing $2 million from the state government towards stage one of establishing an advanced manufacturing and technology hub, as part of the $154 million Economic Recovery Fund.
“REDARC Defence & Space is excited to partner with Raytheon Australia on the groundbreaking Electronic Warfare Tactical Engagement (EWTE) vehicle, a first-of-its-kind mobile platform,” REDARC Defence & Space executive general manager Scott Begbie said.
“Our close collaboration with Raytheon Australia, leveraging our expertise in vehicle integration of power and distribution systems, has delivered a robust and reliable mobile power solution.
“This custom-built system is critical for supporting the EWTE vehicle’s cutting-edge electronic warfare technologies, enhancing Australia’s Defence capabilities and demonstrating the power of sovereign innovation.”