15 new Bushmasters ordered for HIMARS regiment

The Australian government has ordered 15 new Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles under a $45 million contract with Bendigo-based Thales.

FILE PHOTO (April 2022): Australian government-donated Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles bound for Ukraine at RAAF Base Amberley, Queensland. Photo by Corporal Jesse Kane.

The additional Bushmasters will facilitate command and control of Army’s High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) long-range fires regiment.

The iconic Bushmaster is currently in use in nine countries and is world renowned for its high level of protection and mobility for troops.

In particular, it has seen commendable service in Ukraine through medical evacuation, command and control, and fire support roles as part of Ukraine’s efforts against Russia’s invasion.

Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said he was delighted to be back in Bendigo to announce the further $45 million investment in the region.

“Protected vehicles such as the Bushmaster are part of the Sovereign Defence Industrial Priorities in the government’s Defence Industry Development Strategy, and this announcement shows we are supporting the Australian defence industry to deliver our priorities,” Mr Conroy said.

“This contact will continue Bendigo’s more than 20-year history of producing these iconic vehicles that have seen service around the world.”

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