ABT awarded defence global competitiveness grant

Fail-safe vehicle braking systems manufacturer Advanced Braking Technology has been awarded a $240,000 Defence Global Competitiveness grant to further its plans in supplying the defence sector.

The company, best known for its sealed braked used in demanding conditions in mining, developed braking systems to be used on the Thales Hawkei armoured vehicle.

The grant, from the Centre for Defence Capability, will be used to buy machinery, internal training and ISO accreditation.

ABT CEO John Annand said the grant would allow the company to build on work undertaken in the defence industry and strengthen its in-house manufacturing capabilities.

This would help the company capitilise on future defence opportunities as they arise.

ABT developed, prototyped and tested the braking system for Hawkei, with fellow Perth company VEEM Ltd manufacturing the systems under a technology licensing agreement.

Annand said: “Furthermore, building internal manufacturing capability will strengthen ABT’s supply chain, which in turn will result in operating efficiencies, cost reductions and product margin improvements.

“This investment in manufacturing capability supports the company’s strategy of positioning itself for the future and strengthens the foundations to drive scale, revenue diversification and innovation.”

Grant funding will be available over the next two years.

Picture: Thales/Advanced Braking Systems

Subscribe to our free @AuManufacturing newsletter here.