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| Haulmark Trailer (File Photo) |
Members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) will be better prepared and protected thanks to federal government investment in more than 2100 specialised vehicles.
These specially made ‘G-wagons’ will be used as tactical training vehicles, for a range of operations as well as activities like supporting disaster relief and securing Australia’s coastline.
The G-wagons, along with Australian-made trailers and modules, will be rolled out to Defence units as part of Project Overlander, a $7.5 billion program providing more than 7500 new protected and unprotected vehicles to the ADF over the next decade.
Today the Minister for Defence Materiel, Senator Kim Carr, announced the completion of contract negotiations under Land 121 Phase 3A, the next step in Project Overlander.
“The Australian Government has completed negotiations to acquire 2146 G-Wagon four wheel drives and 1799 matching trailers,” Senator Carr said.
“This will provide the Australian Army with enhanced training capability to prepare for operations in protected vehicles, ensuring that Australian soldiers are better prepared and equipped.”
The G-Wagon vehicles are being manufactured for Daimler AG, and then supplied to Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific Pty Ltd in Mulgrave, Victoria, to fit Australian-made modules and tray bodies.
“The modules and tray bodies for these vehicles, as well as the trailers, will be designed and manufactured by Australian companies – Varley and Haulmark – in contracts worth approximately $196 million,” Senator Carr said.
Approximately 540 modules and 810 tray bodies are being designed and manufactured by G. H. Varley Pty Ltd in Newcastle, New South Wales, in a contract worth approximately $100 million.
There are 1799 trailers being designed and manufactured by Queensland-based Haulmark Trailers (Australia) Pty Ltd, to the approximate value of $96 million, including initial support.
“I am pleased that the most competitive companies for these very important, high-skilled contracts were located in Australia. These companies are among the world’s best, with advanced capabilities in manufacturing. That is why they are helping ensure that the ADF has the best kit,” Senator Carr said.
The main roll-out of the new vehicles and trailers to Defence units is scheduled to commence in July this year.