Development of an Australian sovereign capability in the welding of specialist defence steels will allow Australian Industry to maximise its participation in upcoming Defence procurements, such as the LAND 400 program, that will see the Australian Defence Force’s existing Australian Light Armoured Vehicle and M113 armoured personnel carrier (APC) fleets replaced with new vehicles that deliver improved levels of firepower, protection and mobility.

Bisalloy chief executive and managing director Greg Albert welcomed the signing of the MoU, saying, "Bisalloy have a long history of successfully collaborating with partner companies to develop new and innovative solutions in steels.

"Our capabilities extend far beyond product supply, it extends to technical and product development assistance. As such, we are committed to offering our customers everything they need for future success."

K-TIG chairman Stuart Carmichael echoed Albert's comments, saying, "We are delighted to be expanding into the Defence market and partnering with Axiom Precision Manufacturing and Bisalloy Steels, two established Australian Department of Defence contractors.

"K-TIG will be responsible for the development of a keyhole TIG welding process for high carbon steels typically used in the defence industry."

Bisalloy Armour steel has become a leading product for defence applications in Australia and abroad and is specified for hulls in APCs, light armoured vehicles (LAV), Collins Class submarines and the Bushmaster infantry mobility vehicles in Australia, along with many APCs and LAVs worldwide. 

Stephen Kuper

Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.