Government releases defence sales catalogue

The federal government’s efforts to boost defence exports seems to be working to increase the pool of local defence exporters.

Defence industry minister, Melissa Price released the fourth edition of the government’s Australian Military Sales Catalogue, which lists a growing number of exporters.

The 2020 Catalogue showcases 170 Australian businesses – a 49 per cent increase from the previous edition.

Major exporters range from Thales with its Hawkei armoured vehicle (pictured), to British Aerospace with its Nulka anti-ship missile decoy, and Austal with the Pacific patrol boat.

They have been joined this year by SMEs exploring global supply chain opportunities such as Redarc Electronics as well a service providers such as Aspen Medical.

Price said: “Small businesses from each Australian state and territory are represented in the Catalogue, highlighting the strength of Australia’s defence industry sector.

“The 2020 catalogue also offers advice and support services.”

The Catalogue features information on support services available to Australian defence industry sector, including Defence Export Controls, the Australian Defence Export Office, Centre for Defence Industry Capability, Team Defence Australia, Export Finance Australia and Austrade.

Defence export controls have been relaxed under the Coalition, allowing the export for the first time of weapons that cause harm and death.

Previously, exports were restricted to non-lethal exports.

The Catalogue also includes select surplus Australian Defence Force (ADF) equipment and platforms that will shortly be retired from service.

These platforms are available to Australia’s international partners on a Government-to-Government and Commercial-to-Government sales transfer basis.

Picture: Defence/Thales Hawkei in Iraq

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