$10 million in grants announced for prospective LAND 8116 suppliers in Victoria

The Victorian government has announced $10 million in grants for SMEs to assist them in joining the supply chain for the $1 billion LAND 8116 Self Propelled Howitzer program.

According to a statement from the state government on Thursday, the funding would involve grants of up to $100,000 for companies “to improve their capability” through projects such as “upgrading business systems and facilities, gaining international accreditations and certifications” and product development.

The funding would be from the Victorian Land Systems Fund and delivered through “a targeted investment stream” and the Supply Chain Uplift program.

“The Supply Chain Uplift program is aimed at lifting standards across Victorian SMEs and making them more competitive suppliers to Hanwha, securing more local jobs and setting them up for lucrative contracts,” said minister for industry support Ben Carroll.

Hanwha Defense Australia was the successful bidder for Land 8116 and is among the final two bidders contending for the LAND 400 Phase 3 Infantry Fighting Vehicle contract.

The  company is currently building a $170 million Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence at Avalon Airport’s industrial precinct in the Geelong region of Victoria.

The 32,000 square metre facility is being built on land leased from logistics company Linfox. HDA will use the site to fulfill the contract to build 30 Howitzers, 15 Armoured Ammunition Resupply Vehicles, and weapon-locating radars.

Picture: Hanwha Defense Australia

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