Lightweight armour development for the C-130J Hercules aircraft

Hawkesbury-based engineering consultancy Aerospace & Mechanical Consulting Engineers has been awarded a $2.13 million contract to further develop a unique lightweight armour for the C-130J Hercules airlifter aircraft.

The federal government contract with Aerospace & Mechanical in partnership with NSW company Armor Composite Engineering, will use a cutting-edge amour solution to provide the aircraft which is in-service with the RAAF with stronger protection.

The innovation could reduce aircraft fatigue and the risk of injury to Australian Defence Force personnel.

Director of Aerospace & Mechanical Consulting Engineers John Eldridge said the contract was an opportunity for the small business to export the armour solution to Australia’s allies and grow its workforce.

Eldridge said: “To support this contract, Aerospace & Mechanical Consulting Engineers has employed an additional four engineering staff and Armor Composite Engineering has increased its manufacturing staff by two, with a further two staff to be employed in the next 12 months.”

Aerospace & Mechanical has previously developed armour systems such as a paratroop door suitable for the C-130 as well as under-floor armour, which is capable of resisting a 0.50 calibre weapon.

Minister for defence industry Melissa Price said “This contract will strengthen ADF capabilities and provide an opportunity to maximise Australian industry participation.

“By investing in the innovative ideas of Australian small and medium businesses, we are delivering more opportunities for those businesses to participate in Defence projects and directly contribute to ADF capability.”

Eldridge said the contract was an opportunity to export the armour solution to Australia’s allies and grow its workforce.

Eldridge said: “To support this contract, Aerospace & Mechanical Consulting Engineers has employed an additional four engineering staff and Armor Composite Engineering has increased its manufacturing staff by two, with a further two staff to be employed in the next 12 months.”

Picture: Aerospace & Mechanical Consulting Engineers/AMCE C-130 Lightweight Armour fitted to the paratroop door

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