New C-IED equipment for Afghanistan

Australian industry partners and the Australian Ministry of Defence have collaborated to develop new counter-improvised explosive device (C-IED) equipment, the ministry announced on 15 June.

The C-IED was developed by Ultra Electronics Australia, Micreo, AXIOM Precision Manufacturing, Lintek and Associated Electronic Services, along with the ministry’s C-IED Task Force, Defence Science and Technology Organisation and Defence Materiel Organisation.

The equipment was produced as part of the ministry’s REDWING programme, which sees the development of lightweight and low-cost force protection systems. It can be operated by police and military units in austere operating environments with limited logistics support and operator training.

The Australian government will invest up to $38.69 million through this project. Delivery of the counter-IED began in January to the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, which are deploying the equipment in the current fighting season.

Australia will continue supporting future Afghan forces and their requirements for these force protection systems.