The Victorian State Government is partnering with BAE Systems in a bid to secure a multibillion-dollar land military vehicle project and create defence manufacturing and supply chain jobs in regional Victoria, according to a press release.
Minister for Trade and Investment Philip Dalidakis visited the Wodonga facility of Parker Hannifin Australia with Member for Indi Cathy McGowan.
The company will supply hydraulics and cooling system components for the Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles and expand its local workforce should BAE Systems win the LAND 400 Phase 2 contract.
The company is reportedly well placed to capitalise on the Federal Government’s recently announced Defence Export Strategy and the resulting initiatives.
The $5 billion LAND 400 Phase 2 project – which includes the design, build and sustainment of 225 Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles – is expected to create up to 2,000 manufacturing and supply chain jobs in Victoria.
Victoria’s defence sector is worth $8 billion to the local economy every year, and is made up of about 20,000 people and more than 400 businesses.
Dalidakis said, “Victoria is the smart choice for LAND 400. We have the necessary skills, capabilities, experience and infrastructure to deliver high quality military vehicles.”