L3-Micreo to export IED protection systems

Brisbane’s L3-Micreo will produce and export more than 14,000 SILVERSHIELD units which protect vehicles from radio-controlled improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The units will be delivered to the Afghanistan National Defence and Security Forces and are in addition to 16,000 systems exported in 2018.

The latest contract, announced by defence industry minister, Linda Reynolds, brings to $109 million the total value of the Australian developed and manufactured SILVERSHIELD exports.

L3 Micreo Managing Director Sarah Earey said the company was honoured to receive the latest order.

Earey said: “We continue to be extremely proud to produce these life-saving force protection systems for Defence to help address the persistent and evolving threat of IEDs in Afghanistan.”

L3-Micreo, which makes RF and photonic products for radar and electronic warfare systems, has produced more than 226,000 SILVERSHIELD systems since 2015.

Major sub-system components for SILVERSHIELD are provided by Australian suppliers Axiom Precision Manufacturing, SRX Global (Australia), ZCG Scalar and Lintek.

Reynolds said the units would make a real difference to the lives of Australia’s Afghan partners, providing them with confidence in anti-insurgent and anti-terror missions.

She said: “The programme is part of Australia’s broader commitment to Afghanistan’s long-term security and development.

Picture: L3-Micreo

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