$170 million Hanwha armoured vehicle factory opened

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles has opened the $170 million Hanwha Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence (H-ACE).

Located at the Avalon Airport Precinct in Victoria, the facility will manufacture the Huntsman and Redback families of armoured vehicles.

Space is provided for suppliers to locate on site to make vehicles for the LAND 8116 Phase 1 and LAND 400 Phase 3 projects – the AS9 Self Propelled Howitzer (SPH), AS10 Armoured Ammunition Resupply Vehicle (AARV) and the Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV).

Acting HDA Managing Director Mr Dean Michie said. “This investment into the Geelong region brings back high technology vehicle manufacturing with both with our diverse supply chain.”

Stage 1 of the facility includes office space for up to 250 people, a production line, paint shop, workshops and a Secure Systems Integration Lab.

Stage 2, to be constructed in 2025 will add a second production line.

Hanwha Aerospace CEO Mr Jae-il Son said: “This facility represents Hanwha’s commitment to Geelong, Victoria, and Australia, demonstrating that the company is focused on the future of programmes in this region, including howitzers, infantry fighting vehicles and other technological advancements beyond our current initiatives.

“H-ACE is a significant part of our global Defence supply chain, further strengthening the relationship between Australia and Korea.

“We will continue to collaborate with Australian companies and work towards integrating more of them into our global supply networks.”

Picture: Hanwha Defence Australia