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The companies have teamed up to support the delivery of next-generation artillery systems to the Australian Army.
Safran Electronics & Defense Australasia (SEDA) has been selected to support Hanwha Defense Australia’s (HDA) delivery of AS9 Huntsman self-propelled howitzer and AS10 armoured ammunition resupply vehicles to the Australian Army under the $900 million–$1.3 billion LAND 8116 contract.
As part of a $5 million subcontract, France-based Safran has been tasked with supplying 32 MINEO Direct Fire Support Systems (DFSS).
“Hanwha has worked with Safran in many markets internationally and now we can add Australia to the list, further growing the strong relationship between the two companies,” Richard Cho, managing director of HDA, said.
“The system will be used on the AS9 self-propelled howitzer (SPH) platform with acquisition through the Australian arms of our businesses.
“The MINEO DFSS forms an integral part of the weapon system on the Huntsman vehicles, along with KDAu’s ODIN fire control system and the R400 RWS from EOS.”
Patrice Provost, chief executive officer of SEDA, welcomed the opportunity to support the delivery of next-generation capability to the Australian Army.
“Safran and Hanwha Defense Australia are increasing the AS9 fitted with MINEO DFSS, and now working together in Australia will provide significant economic benefits and technology transfer to the Australian economy,” he said.
“Not only are we highlighting two great Australian companies working together, but the MINEO DFSS is the first Safran optronic system onboard an Australian Army vehicle, this contract will contribute to the worldwide success of MINEO DFFS.”
The MINEO DFSS sight combines colour day and thermal imaging technology along with a laser range finder in a single compact unit, designed to provide a low optical signature.
The colour day zoom is tipped to provide enhanced line-of-sight stability and firing accuracy.
The MINEO DFSS is currently in service on both the Indian and Norwegian K9 programs.
Safran is the latest company to join Hanwha’s LAND 8116 team, joining the likes of Kongsberg Defence Australia and Sigma Bravo.
[Related: Hanwha Defense wins major K9 contract]
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