VET News

New Weapons Boost Army Capability and Secure Jobs

Under the new 2020 Force Structure Plan, the Morrison Government is set to acquire 251 Remote Weapon Stations.  These new weapons will form a part of the $270 billion capability upgrade for the Australian Defence Force.  

Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently quoted, "The Federal Government is committed to ensuring Australian Defence Force personnel have the tools they need to protect themselves and keep Australians safe.  At the same time we must have a robust and resilient defence industry that maximises opportunities for small businesses and supports Australian jobs and local investment."

The 2020 Defence Strategic Update and the 2020 Force Structure Plan would strengthen the ADF’s capabilities to respond to an increasingly challenging strategic environment.  Minister for Defence, Senator Linda Reynolds CSC said, “The Morrison Government is investing a record $270 billion in Defence capability and infrastructure over the next decade.  Investments such as the acquisition of Remote Weapon Stations will make the ADF more capable for the wide range of potential scenarios and threats Australia will face in the future.”

The investment in new remote weapon stations would provide job stability for over 200 Electro Optic Systems' workforce directly involved in engineering and support.  Minister for Defence Industry, Melissa Price said, "This investment not only secures local jobs but it also provides certainty for over 100 supply chain businesses across Australia.  While the Federal Government's focus is on keeping Australians safe, our investments in Defence have a significant benefit for Australian businesses and workers - around 15,000 businesses and 70,000 workers benefit from our investments and that's set to grow."

See Original New Weapons Boost Media Announcement.

Date posted Jul 9, 2020