South Australian company REDARC has marked a major milestone in the delivery of its new defence and space facility with completion of the first stage of the $50 million project. The two-storey Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Hub will boost the company’s capability to design, manufacture and deliver mission-critical systems while creating 200 jobs by 2032.
REDARC Managing Director Anthony Kittel said the facility would propel operations across the company’s growing division, REDARC Defence & Space and into global markets. “We are building a high-tech, next-generation, zone 4 secure facility that supports REDARC’s expansion, unlocks potential and advances Australia’s global standing in defence and space,” Kittel said. “This hub will bring together engineers, technicians and defence experts to create cutting edge systems, from advanced power solutions to space-ready technologies, that support our partners locally, nationally and internationally for decades to come.”
Kittel will unveil final plans for the custom-designed facility, formerly home to Sola International Holdings’ global R&D operations at Lonsdale. The South Australian Government contributed $1 million towards the first phase of the project. Once complete, the hub will meet the highest defence security standards required to house advanced manufacturing, R&D and testing spaces, as well as collaborative areas designed to engage start-ups and students.
“This will be an engaging, dynamic place that sparks and fosters collaboration in two of the most exciting growth industries,” Kittel said. “It will not only accelerate REDARC’s growth but also nurture the next generation of innovators by giving them access to world-class equipment and secure spaces to test technology. From mechanical and software engineers to high-level assembly technicians, we’re creating pathways into high-value careers.”
Over the past five years, REDARC Defence & Space has become a key player in Australia’s defence and space industries, supplying battery monitoring and power management solutions for major projects including:
- NASAMS Ground Based Air Defence System for the Australian Army (delivered by Kongsberg and Raytheon);
- Hunter Class Frigates for the Royal Australian Navy (delivered by BAE Systems);
- Hawkei and Bushmaster vehicles (delivered by Thales).
Kittel said the new hub reflects REDARC’s commitment to innovation, diversification and capacity building across the defence sector while accelerating into the fast-emerging space industry. “We are constantly listening to our clients and industries to understand their toughest challenges and deliver the best technical solutions,” he said. “Right now, we’re providing test services for space start-ups and adapting our mining technologies for use in orbit. This facility will allow us to scale up and take those ground-breaking solutions even further.”
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