Australia and the UK collaborate to improve armour systems

Funding from Australia and the United Kingdom has been revealed for a major research program to improve armour systems for the military.

The UK Government announced a bilateral international program to accelerate the integration of advanced materials into military platforms.

Funding covers integration of composites, adhesives for structural joining, joining high temperature structures and improving armour systems.

Nine teams have received Phase 2 funding worth a total of $2.82 million (£1.48 million) including in Australia:

• Western Sydney University, Imperial College London, Metrologi Pty Ltd, UNSW and AirBus Australia Pacific
• Qinetiq Australia Pty Ltd and RMIT
• University of New South Wales, Imperial College London, Advanced Composite Structures Australia Pty Ltd
• University of Adelaide, Research Institute of Saint-Louis (ISL – France) and Materials Science Institute
• RMIT University

The program is jointly funded by the Australian Next Generation Technologies Fund run by DST Group and the Ministry of Defence Materials for Strategic Advantage program in the UK.

Australian Minister for Defence Industry, Melissa Price, said the joint research proposals demonstrated the close practical cooperation between defence industry and universities across Australia and the UK.

Price said: “These joint challenge projects have not only strengthened our bilateral defence relationship but provide support to each country’s respective defence industries to overcome capability challenges we face.

“Academic and industry partners are vitally important to both defence forces. Through the Next Generation Technologies Fund the Australian Government is committed to providing the best capability possible to the men and women who serve our nation.”

UK minister for defence procurement, Jeremy Quin MP said: “The UK and Australia have an enduring defence relationship.

“As we take on a range of new challenges, I am delighted we will be working together to ensure our personnel are armed with the most advanced technologies.

“These joint challenge projects represent both countries’ innovative visions for the future, whilst supporting our academic and industry partners.”

Picture: Thales Bushmaster

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