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Brisbane-based company Astute Systems has signed a contract with Hanwha Defence Australia for the provision of ruggedised data switching for the Redback infantry fighting vehicle.
The Hanwha AS21 Redback is a fifth‑generation infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) that combines cutting‑edge sensor, vehicle and kinetic systems to deliver what is widely regarded as the world’s most advanced IFV for the Australian Army.
Under the contract, Astute Systems will supply its BushNET CNS technology: a ruggedised, advanced data switch that acts as the central nervous system (CNS) for armoured platforms, used to integrate vehicle subsystems with low‑latency processing and secure data transmission.
“This contract is a milestone for Astute Systems and underlines our capability to deliver complex, interoperable defence hardware and software solutions,” said Astute Systems co-founder and chief executive officer Ross Newman.
“Working with HDA, we will deliver capability quickly, offer sovereign sustainability and in turn, supporting local jobs, skills and supply chains.”
Designed, manufactured and sustained in South-East Queensland in partnership with other local defence suppliers, BushNET CNS highlights Astute Systems’ status as a fully Australian, veteran‑owned company and reinforces HDA’s commitment to growing sovereign SME capability to support manufacturing and innovation across the economy.
“We welcome Astute Systems as a valued partner on the Redback program under LAND 400 Phase 3,” an HDA spokesperson said.
“Their BushNET CNS technology complements the Redback’s other advanced systems and supports our commitment to building a diverse and resilient Australian supply chain.”
The contract will increase local supply of components and materials in Queensland and across Australia, supporting additional jobs, improved job security for existing staff, and the expansion of Astute Systems’ facilities and workforce.
This contract strengthens Astute Systems’ footprint across Australia, Asia and Europe and deepens industrial collaboration. The award will increase local supply of components and materials in Queensland and across Australia, support additional jobs and the expansion of our facilities and workforce, and create opportunities for targeted recruitment and upskilling across the local supply chain.
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