Australia Ministry of Defence press release
Canberra-based CEA Technologies will produce the phased array radars, which will support Army’s long-range fires capability and provide greater monitoring of potential threats, across an integrated, focused Defence Force.
This investment by the Albanese Government is another example of our commitment to building a defence future made in Australia and will sustain over 700 local jobs in Canberra and across the country.
Once built, the radars will be based at the Edinburgh Defence precinct in South Australia as part of the 10th Fires Brigade.
Delivery of the first radars is expected from 2027.
“The Albanese Labor Government continues to invest in advanced capabilities for our Defence Force, after a decade of neglect. This will contribute to the security of our region and help keep Australians safe while also supporting a world-leading defence business and local jobs. In line with the 2024 National Defence Strategy, today’s announcement will ensure Army’s long‑range fire capabilities are bolstered and ensure we deliver an integrated, focused force.”
The Hon Richard Marles MP, Deputy Prime Minister
“CEA Technologies is one of Defence’s most critical suppliers. These domestically manufactured radars are testament to the ingenuity and expertise in Australia’s defence industry. This investment is another example of the Albanese Government’s commitment to a future made in Australia, and the defence industry is an essential part of that future.”
The Hon Pat Conroy MP, Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery
“This is an important investment for Canberra’s economy and will sustain hundreds of good local jobs. Our government is committed to building the nation’s advanced manufacturing industry – including here in the ACT – to ensure high-quality, well-paid jobs into the future.”
Minister for Finance, the Hon Katy Gallagher MP
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Naval News comments:
The multi-mission phased array radars are set to provide targeting data to Australia’s future land-based maritime strike systems. Project Land 8113 Phase 2 which was approved in June 2024 will procure a regiment of land-based maritime strike vehicles for the Australian Army.
Two systems are being considered to fulfil the requirement: Lockheed Martin’s M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) firing the Precision Strike Missile Increment 2 (PrSM Inc 2) Land-Based Anti-Ship Missile (LBASM) and the Kongsberg-Thales Australia StrikeMaster firing the Naval Strike Missile (NSM). Elements of both systems are already in use with the broader Australian Defence Force (ADF) and there are plans to produce both missiles domestically in Australia.