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Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy has announced the government will build more than 40 Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles as part of a $100 million contract.
Thales Australia will manufacture the Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles (PMV) in Bendigo, Victoria, continuing the city’s proud tradition of producing these iconic vehicles for over 20 years. Renowned for their robust design and battlefield effectiveness, Bushmasters have served in operations worldwide, providing life-saving protection for troops in diverse combat environments.
The latest production contract, valued at over $100 million, will not only bolster the Australian Army’s capabilities but also support hundreds of local jobs in Bendigo and stimulate economic activity across Victoria’s supply chain.
Minister Conroy said, “The Bushmaster vehicles will contribute to the acceleration of a land-based long-range strike capability for the Army, demonstrating a commitment to modernising the Australian Defence Force.”
These newly built Bushmasters will be assigned to the Army’s second long-range fires regiment, based at the Edinburgh Defence Precinct in South Australia under the 10th Fires Brigade. The vehicles will play a critical role in supporting a multi-mission phased array radar battery, enabling advanced command and control capabilities essential for modern warfare.
“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,” Minister Conroy said.
Jeff Connolly, CEO, Thales Australia and New Zealand, welcomed this announcement, saying, “This is an important investment by the Government in Australia's industrial base that will deliver the capabilities our army needs - a battle-proven and locally-made platform that will get the job done for decades to come.
Since taking office, the Albanese government has committed over $300 million to contracts for new Bendigo-built Bushmasters, resulting in the delivery of more than 130 additional vehicles to the Australian Army.
Minister Conroy said, “This additional investment will support hundreds of jobs, underscoring the Albanese government’s commitment not only to the people of the Bendigo region but to building Australia’s future.”
Mr Connolly added, "What makes the Bushmaster so special is our nationally critical manufacturing facility at Bendigo and its unique blend of the engineering expertise, technical skills, and dedicated workforce who do such a great job for the nation. The Bushmaster is an excellent example of what we do at Thales Australia as a trusted partner of the Australian government, utilising local skills, design, engineering and technology to protect the interests of Australia, our allies and partners."
The Bushmaster PMV is a trusted platform for nine nations, offering exceptional protection and mobility, making it a preferred choice for militaries worldwide, it has reinforced its reputation underscored by its life-saving performance on operations, credited with safeguarding Australian soldiers and now protecting Ukrainian forces in the ongoing conflict.
