The Australian government has entered the single largest defence export agreement in the country’s history to supply Australian-made armoured vehicles to Germany. Under the agreement, more than 100 Boxer Heavy Weapon Carrier vehicles will be built by Rheinmetall at its Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence in Redbank, Queensland and exported for use by the German Army.
This agreement, now passed through the German parliament, follows Prime Minister Anthony Albanese witnessing the signing of the in-principle agreement between Germany and Australia during his visit to Berlin in July last year.
This is a significant milestone for Australia’s defence industry: worth over $1 billion to the Australian economy, boosting the sovereign defence industry and securing more than 600 direct jobs in Queensland alone, with even more through the supply chain.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, “This significant announcement is worth over $1 billion to the Australian economy in the production and supply of these vehicles. The agreement will boost Australia’s sovereign defence industry, secure local jobs and contribute to Australia’s economic growth. This deal secures well-paid jobs in Queensland and across the country.”
Minister for Defence Richard Marles said, “I am pleased to announce the signing of the biggest defence export agreement in Australia’s history. The build and export of Boxer Heavy Weapon Carrier vehicles to the German Army highlights a strengthening of the relationship between our two countries. The Albanese Government is not only committed to bolstering our nation’s growing defence industry, technology and talent, but also supporting ongoing economic prosperity in the region.”
Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said, “This announcement underscores the support and immense effort on the part of the Albanese Government in ensuring we have a robust defence industry. A strong defence industry is crucial to protecting Australians and their interests. This announcement is also a testament to the hardworking Australians employed in this critical industry. Today’s announcement means more than 600 Australians will secure and stable employment at Rheinmetall’s Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence in Queensland, along with many more throughout our defence industry across the nation.”
For Editorial Inquiries Contact:
Editor Kym Bergmann at kym.bergmann@venturamedia.net
For Advertising Inquiries Contact:
Director of Sales Graham Joss at graham.joss@venturamedia.net
The boxer is being “assembled” in Australia out of flat packs from Germany!!!! Nothing is made in australia!!!! The Gov did the deal because they knew they purchased too many of these
You are largely correct about the assembled here part, but I assumed these are an extra 100 Boxers and that Army will continue to receive the 211 that they have contracted for. I’m happy to be corrected.
Rheinmetall has a big presence here in military industrial terms. We should buy other kit from them the compliment what we’ve already bought from them. Nicer if we produced our own though
Australia made, no such thing
i think you may be right, sadly