Thales Australia unveils next-gen Bushmaster Mulga utility variant

Thales Australia has unveiled the next generation Bushmaster 5.6 at the Eurosatory Trade Show in France. The unveiling showcased a Bushmaster Mulga utility variant capable of integrating a range of different sensors, effectors and mission systems to meet contemporary warfighting needs. It is designed for use by global customers, highlighted by the new left-hand drive setup. The new Bushmaster 5.6 variant evolves the combat-proven Bushmaster platform into an adaptable battlefield vehicle with enhanced capability, connectivity and survivability ready for modern and future battlefields. Building on decades of operational experience and continuous adaptation to evolving threats, the next generation Bushmaster takes the iconic Australian vehicle produced in Bendigo, Victoria, to a new level through major upgrades, increased payload capability and greater flexibility to integrate modern battlefield technology. The new utility variant has been designed to carry and power a wider range of mission systems, including counter-drone technologies, sensors, remote weapon stations, communications equipment and electronic warfare capabilities. The Next Generation Bushmaster is also left-hand drive capable and ready to meet global customer demands. As battlefields become more connected and threats such as drones become ubiquitous, military vehicles need to be capable of meeting multiple mission needs, including detecting threats, sharing information, supporting autonomous systems and integrating new technologies quickly. The Bushmaster 5.6 has been developed to fulfil this role, rapidly evolving into a highly connected sensor and effector platform ready for the demands of modern and future warfare, by adding powerful offensive capabilities to its traditional defensive role, such as Thales laser guided rockets with the RapidStriker, for instance. With this upgrade, the Bushmaster family will combine its combat-proven protected mobility and agility with the capability to project enhanced lethality against new threats. Importantly, the Bushmaster continues to evolve to best serve the needs of its crews and operators, incorporating new front-door access, improved vehicle entry, digital displays and advanced vehicle monitoring systems so to improve usability, sustainment and support in the field. The Bushmaster has been successfully deployed and trusted by armed forces around the world and continues to evolve through ongoing innovation, integration of operational lessons and customer collaboration. The Australian Government has further reaffirmed its confidence in the Bushmaster through the signing of a contract for procurement of 290 units of the next generation. Jeff Connolly, CEO Thales Australia & New Zealand said: “The Bushmaster has built a global reputation for protection, mobility and reliability – this next generation vehicle demonstrates how the platform continues to evolve in response to changing threats, emerging technologies and customer needs. Already a trusted defender, the Bushmaster 5.6 has been designed to provide greater flexibility for modern missions, particularly in areas like counter drone operations, sensing, communications and electronic warfare.” Andrew Downes, Vice-President, Land, Thales in Australia said: “Like Australian soldiers who have relied on it for decades – the Bushmaster is strong, tough, capable and respected. The new Mulga variant and all next-generation vehicles provide a rugged and adaptable Australian capability. It is a next-generation vehicle, ready for export and improved from lessons learned fighting from the combat field. It allows customers to adapt the vehicle for different missions while retaining the protection, mobility and reliability that have made Bushmaster successful globally.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Group Sales Director Simon Hadfield at [email protected]