Australia is set to to get a renewed sea mine capability with a particular focus on defending its northern approaches. (Photo: Rheinmetall)
The exact value of the contract was not disclosed but was described in a statement from the company as ‘worth a figure of low three-digit million-euro range with potential growth in the coming years'.
‘The types and numbers of sea mines to be provided are classified, but delivery is expected to commence this year.’
In a statement the Australian Defence Force (ADF) AM Leon Phillips, Chief of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance added that the mines will be ‘deployable from submarines, ships and aircraft [and] provide a new level of deterrence to potential adversaries'.
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'The reinvigoration of a maritime mining capability for the ADF will increase its ability to deter through denial any adversary’s attempt to project power against Australia through our northern approaches and protect Australia’s economic connection to our region and the world.’
The contract includes provision for the transfer of technology and expertise to Australia to enable local manufacturing and maintenance of the mines.
This includes potentially providing electronics services and recurring maintenance; and potentially filling the sea mines with Australian-made explosives and assembling them in-country.
The contract was awarded to HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division and General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB). As well as for the building of the boats, contract money will also go towards improving productivity at the shipyards, workforce support and other investment.
The approved purchase is for Tomahawk Block IV and Block V missiles, control systems, telemetry missiles and communication and broadcast systems.
The Philippine Navy is fast-tracking its maritime modernisation with new warships, unmanned platforms, and international shipbuilding partnerships to bolster its regional deterrence posture.
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
L3Harris is targeting European naval modernisation with new uncrewed surface vessels, SATCOM partnerships, and regional investments including defence exercises and facility openings.
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