New battlefield management system for Army

The way wars are fought on the modern battlefield will be revolutionised with a new Battlefield Command System for the Army.

FILE PHOTO: An M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank fires on Exercise Diamond Run 2017. Photo by Captain Anna-Lise Brink.

Minister for Defence Industry Christopher Pyne and Minister for Defence Marise Payne yesterday announced the approval of Project Land 200 Tranche 2.

Worth up to $1.4 billion, the project will enhance the Australian Defence Force’s digital command, control and communications systems.

Minister Pyne said Harris Communications Australia would deliver the tactical communications network, including encrypted radios, and Elbit Systems of Australia will enhance the Battle Management System software, which tracks our units, delivered under Land 200 Tranche 1.

“Together they form the Battlefield Command System, which allows commanders to plan, monitor, direct and review operations in real time,” Minister Pyne said.

“This will change the way the Army fights by continuing its transformation from an analogue voice and paper-based force to a modern digital one.

“It will improve our land combat and amphibious warfare capabilities by providing fast, accurate information over secure and reliable digital communications.

“The Battlefield Command System will integrate with weapon systems in Australia’s tanks and future combat vehicles, increasing decision speed and the ability to share information across the battlefield.”

Minister Pyne said Harris and Elbit’s Australian workforces would grow as a result of the investment.

“Harris’ Australian workforce will increase by 70 to 120 positions in Brisbane and another 15 new positions will be established by their major subcontractor, Boeing Defence Australia,” he said.

“Elbit’s Australian workforce to support Land 200 will grow by 70 to 122 with 67 in Brisbane and 55 in Melbourne.

“Australian industry involvement is valued around $215 million for acquisition and this is expected to nearly double to around $400 million during project sustainment.”

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