Australian defence contractor Birdon Group has announced a strategic partnership with Swedish engineering firm MMT AB to deliver next-generation tactical bridging systems to allied defence forces, including the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
Birdon is internationally recognised for its maritime engineering and military watercraft programs, including the Bridge Erection Boat (BEB) developed for the Australian and U.S. Army. The company has delivered over 450 BEBs globally and continues to expand its wet gap crossing capabilities through innovation and strategic collaboration.
Under the new agreement, Birdon will integrate MMT’s patented Tactical Bridge Adaptor Pallet (BAP-TT) into its Complete Wet Gap Crossing Solution. The BAP-TT is designed to streamline the transport and deployment of BEBs and Improved Ribbon Bridges (IRBs), enhancing mobility and operational readiness in complex environments. The system will incorporate advanced control and autonomous technologies developed by Birdon, further strengthening its offering to NATO and allied forces.
“This partnership brings together two engineering leaders with complementary strengths,” said Martyn Bowden, Head of Bridging and Propulsion at Birdon Group. “MMT’s expertise in military logistics systems aligns perfectly with Birdon’s track record in delivering robust, deployable solutions for defence clients. Together, we’re setting a new benchmark for tactical bridging capability.”
The agreement includes exclusive cooperation across design, manufacturing, marketing, and Integrated Logistics Support (ILS), with a commitment to global government tenders. It also provides for technology transfer, prototype development, and localised production support, ensuring responsiveness to regional defence requirements, including those of the ADF.
MMT AB was recently awarded a contract by the Swedish Armed Forces to deliver over 300 BAP units over the next eight years. The BAP-TT variant, developed in partnership with Birdon, will be tailored for NATO and allied operations, including potential applications in the Indo-Pacific.
“We’re proud to work with Birdon to expand the reach of our BAP technology,” said Wiktor Andersson, Chairman of MMT AB. “This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to innovation, interoperability, and supporting the evolving needs of modern defence forces.”