Qld hits shortlist for army vehicle project

Queensland is in the running as the potential location to design, build and maintain the next multi-billion dollar generation of Australian Army armoured combat reconnaissance vehicles.

Minister for State Development Dr Anthony Lynham today welcomed the announcement by global defence specialist Rheinmetall Defence Australia that Queensland is one of its two preferred states to locate its regional headquarters.

“This is an endorsement of our state’s capabilities in land defence and heavy vehicle manufacturing and sustainment,” Dr Lynham said.

“It offers up to 250 long-term jobs and real opportunity into the future beyond the initial major contract, should Rheinmetall be selected by the Commonwealth.”

Rheinmetall is one of two companies chosen by the Department of Defence to bid for LAND 400 Phase 2 project. Phase 2 is worth up to $5 billion and expected to deliver more than 250 highly-skilled, long-term jobs. The other company vying for the contracts is BAE Systems.

Rheinmetall Defence Australia today announced it had shortlisted Queensland and Victoria as potential locations for its military vehicle centre of excellence to design, build and support up to 10,000 military vehicles in the Asia Pacific.

Dr Lynham said the Queensland Government had been working behind-the-scenes to attract future phases of the $20 billion LAND 400 project.

“Queensland is home to the largest concentration of Australian Army personnel and assets, and offers unmatched heavy vehicle manufacturing capability,” he said.

“Many of the leading innovative defence technology firms are already here and we are continuing to grow this sector and confirm Queensland as Australia’s front line for defence industries.”

Dr Lynham said his Department of State Development would continue to work closely with Rheinmetall, as well as BAE Systems. 

ENDS            

Media contact: Jan Martin     0439 341 341

Editors: To view Rheinmetall's announcement and download images visit www.boxercrv.com.au