Rheinmetall wins multimillion-euro order from Australia for strategic naval warfare systems

RWM Italia S.p.A., a wholly owned subsidiary of Rheinmetall AG in Italy, has won an order from the Commonwealth of Australia to deliver a significant quantity of smart sea mines. For Rheinmetall, the order is worth a figure of low three-digit million-euro range with potential growth in the coming years. This important contract underscores once again the great trust the Commonwealth of Australia places in Rheinmetall and its products.  The Australian Defence Forces have purchased latest generation of Rheinmetall smart sea mines, which will strengthen the Australian maritime Defence capabilities, with mines able to be deployed from several platforms.  Defence evaluated market options last year, and has selected RWM Italia to provide the capability. RWM Italia was assessed by the Commonwealth of Australia to possess both the technology to meet ADF strategic objectives and the ability to produce the quantities of mines required.  The types and numbers of sea mines to be provided are classified, but delivery is expected to commence this year. Rapidly deployable and technologically sophisticated, the RWM Italia smart mines will provide a new level of deterrence to any potential adversary. Australian Industry will be engaged in the ongoing sustainment of the capability. The Group’s centre of excellence for underwater defence systems, RWM Italia is a leader in the strategic domain of multi-influence naval mines and mine-clearing systems, with a presence in over 20 countries. RWM Italia, the Group’s centre of excellence for underwater defence systems, is a leader in the strategic field of multi-influence mines and minesweeping systems, with a presence in over twenty countries. Together with Rheinmetall Defence Australia Pty Ltd, Rheinmetall’s lead unit in Australia, RWM Italia is committed to supporting the ADF in the long-term use of these systems. Australian Air Marshal Leon Phillips, Chief of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance, said: “The reinvigoration of a maritime mining capability for the ADF will increase its ability to deter through denial any adversary’s attempt to project power against Australia through our northern approaches, and protect Australia’s economic connection to our region and the world. We are providing the ADF with the capability it needs for the 21st century. Rapidly deployable and technologically sophisticated, smart sea mines will provide a profound step-up for the defence of Australia. The level of technology involved in this acquisition will take our forces to the cutting-edge of modern military hardware. The sea mines will be maintained in Australia and some elements may be manufactured here, potentially including the explosive fill.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Director of Sales Graham Joss at [email protected]