Thales Australia has received a contract exceeding $100 million from the Australian defense ministry to manufacture over 40 Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles at its facility in Bendigo, Victoria. The initiative aims to enhance warfighters’ capabilities and boost the local defense manufacturing sector.
Pat Conroy, the defense minister for industry, emphasized the PMV’s advantages in strengthening the Australian Army’s land-based long-range strike capabilities.
“This contract underscores the Albanese government’s commitment to providing the Australian Defence Force with the capabilities and equipment it needs to keep Australians safe,” the minister said.
The Bushmaster, a 17-tonne, 4×4 vehicle, is designed to protect up to 10 occupants with its high blast and ballistic protection and provide off-road mobility. It is used by the ADF and eight other armed forces globally to support various missions.
Conroy also highlighted the contract’s economic benefits for the city of Bendigo and the state of Victoria. The project is expected to create over 250 local jobs and improve the domestic defense supply chain.
The government last ordered 15 Bushmasters in July for the Army’s High Mobility Artillery Rocket System. Thales Australia initially secured an order for protected vehicles in May 2023, with an 18-month manufacturing timetable.