K-Tig to work with Bisalloy and Axiom Precision in defence

Welding technology developer K-TIG is to work with Bisalloy Steels and Axiom Precision Manufacturing to develop specialist welding capabilities for the defence sector.

The three companies have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly develop a sovereign capability in the efficient and effective welding of specialist steels.

Their target is to maximise Australian participation in the Land 400 programme which will see 678 armoured vehicles acquired for defence at a total cost of between $10 and $15 billion.

Defence has signed contracts with Rheinmetall Defence Australia to deliver 211 Boxer 8×8 Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles (CRV), with a further 450 Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFV) to replace the current M113 Armoured Personnel Carriers going through a tender process.

Armour and abrasion resistant steel manufacturer Bisalloy will supply specialist steels to the new venture based on their armour plating technology.

Axiom will be responsible for establishing a capability to weld steels to be used in a variety of land, sea and defence projects.

Welding capabilities will be built around K-TIG’s keyhole TIG processes being developed and commercialised by the company.

K-TIG chairman Stuart Carmichael said the company was delighted to be expanding into the defence market in partnership with two established defence contractors.

Axiom manufactures components for the Collins class submarines and for the vertical tails of the F-35 fighter jet.

Bisalloy has previously been selected by Rheinmetall to supply armour steel for the Land 400 Phase 2 programme.

Picture: Bisalloy

Subscribe to our free @AuManufacturing newsletter here.