BAE Systems, Saab Australia sign MoU

BAE Systems and Saab Australia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) as part of BAE System's bid for a major Australian combat vehicle programme on 6 July.

Together with Patria, BAE Systems is pursuing Australia's Land 400 Phase 2 Mounted Combat Reconnaissance Capability programme. Saab's products are an integral part of the team's proposed design for the combat vehicle.

The team's proposal will see the two companies transfer intellectual property and design artefacts for manufacturing, sustaining and upgrading the vehicle into the country. Saab Australia will provide in-service support and key sub-systems.

Graeme Bent, director – land and integrated systems, BAE Systems Australia, said: 'With Land 400, BAE Systems seeks to strengthen Australia's advanced manufacturing capability and maximise Australian industry involvement within its supply chain.

'Our offer will replicate overseas success for manufacturing and sustaining the Patria Armoured Modular Vehicle, in Australia. The vehicle has been successfully manufactured in countries outside of Finland and has a strong track record for technology transfer to user nations.'

Dean Rosenfield, managing director, Saab Australia, said: 'Saab is delighted to draw on its global expertise and experience to provide key sub-systems into the BAE Systems-Patria solution for Land 400. Saab already has a significant presence in Australia and this collaboration will enable us to further grow our business in the land domain.

'Land 400 provides additional opportunities for local manufacture, assembly, integration and in-service support that will not only assist us to achieve these aspirations but will be vital in growing local industry capability to effectively deliver and support combat vehicles for the ADF.'

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