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Marand has received a further contract from Kongsberg Defence Australia to produce additional components for the Naval Strike Missile.
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Under the contract, Marand will produce structural launcher frames and rails for the Naval Strike Missile’s launcher canisters under SEA 1300.
The announcement follows a contract in February between the two companies, in which Marand had received a contract to develop launcher ramp systems for the Naval Strike Missile.
The fifth-generation long-range precision strike Naval Strike Missile will replace the Harpoon anti-ship missile on the Anzac Class Frigate and Hobart Class Destroyer.
The production of the launcher frame and rails are expected to commence immediately, with the company already developing the launch ramp.
“We have been working closely with Marand and are delighted to award this additional contract to them, further expanding our existing relationship,” John Fry, general manager of Kongsberg Defence Australia, said.
“Marand is a very capable Australian manufacturer and we see them as an important local partner on this project where Kongsberg is maximising local manufacturing content within an accelerated delivery schedule.
“These launcher components are significant elements of the Naval Strike Missile and the local production of these systems demonstrate our commitment to furthering Australian manufacturing in support of the Sovereign Guided Weapon Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Enterprise.”
Rohan Stocker, chief executive officer of Marand, welcomed the announcement, acknowledging the outstanding collaboration between the two companies.
“We are very pleased to be awarded this contract. As well as the project management, procurement, and assembly processes at Marand, we have leveraged the broader group to bring best of breed in detail component machining and surface treatment processes,” Stocker said.
“We have the capabilities and capacity required for GWEO, where size and production rate are key drivers, so we are pleased that has been recognised.
“Finally, we have appreciated the technical rigour from Kongsberg in Norway and Australia, and the excellent teamwork we have seen.”
In May, Marand and Rheinmetall announced a AU$50 million extension to their manufacturing partnership to include the Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicle (CRV) in use with the Australian Defence Force and for export orders.
“This major production partnership is an exciting development for Marand and for the City of Geelong. Expanding on our current work already underway in Geelong to now include Boxer is a testament to the capability we have demonstrated to Rheinmetall and their trust in us to continue to deliver for these critical programs,” Stocker said of the announcement.
“To support the delivery of this contract extension, Marand will undertake design and development with manufacturing at the historic Ford Factory precinct in Geelong. Since opening their Geelong manufacturing division on Ford’s site 10 years ago, Marand already employs over 80 staff.”
