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BAE Systems Australia is supporting local SMEs to adopt new technologies that will drive future shipbuilding.
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Adelaide-based SMEs MyModular, Century Engineering, MG Engineering, Novafast International, Axiom, and Hobart-based CBG Systems – each a trusted supplier on the Hunter Class Frigate Program – have signed up to the “Connected Supplier” project to improve digital literacy and explore opportunities to use technology for better business performance.
Project activities have taken place at the Line Zero – Factory of the Future facility developed by BAE Systems Maritime Australia at the Tonsley Innovation Precinct in Adelaide in partnership with Flinders University, the Commonwealth government, and the South Australian government.
The SMEs have taken part in workshops, site visits, attended defence and cyber security briefings and been provided with one-on-one support from subject-matter experts in the ongoing automation of traditional manufacturing and industrial practices using smart technology, also known as Industry 4.0.
The project has been led by research agency DMTC as part of the Factory of the Future Manufacturing Growth Accelerator, an initiative established through a $4 million South Australian government grant. The participating companies have already used data from the National Electricity Market to better understand ways to reduce emissions and ensure an energy efficient approach to running their business.
BAE Systems Australia is working with its trusted industry partners to increase the resilience, capability, and capacity of the nation’s defence industry by partnering with small and medium enterprises, in line with the Commonwealth’s recently released Defence Industry Development Strategy.
“The government-supported Manufacturing Growth Accelerator introduces participating manufacturers to technologies and ways of working that might otherwise be inaccessible or unaffordable,” said Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, Dr Susan Close.
“Each of these projects is set to make our state’s manufacturing sector smarter, greener, and more productive.
“Helping South Australian industry access the cutting-edge findings and technologies within our research institutes is a focus of South Australia’s Advanced Manufacturing Strategy.”
Sharon Wilson, business development and continuous naval shipbuilding director BAE Systems Australia – Maritime, said the company is committed to supporting Australian industry and building a sovereign industrial capability that will last for generations.
“Industry 4.0 technologies and advanced manufacturing methods are changing the face of not just shipbuilding but industries across the country and the globe, and we are right at the forefront of it.
“Our work with Australian businesses and academia is creating new jobs and career paths for people entering the workforce and those who have already had long careers, with opportunities to upskill and re-train in digital technologies.”
