New Dutch Bushmasters destined for Afghanistan
25 August 2009
Thales is to supply the Netherlands with 14 new Bushmaster vehicles, bringing total Dutch orders to 86.
The standard troop carrier variants will be delivered to the customer in October and November, with nine destined for Afghanistan and five to be kept in reserve.
In announcing the news to the Dutch parliament, State Secretary for Defence Jack de Vries said the Bushmaster was of great value to Task Force Oruzgan due to the vehicle's ability to protect troops against Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
Ian Irving, Vice President of Land & Joint Systems at Thales Australia, said the new order reflected the confidence the Dutch armed forces have in the vehicle.
"The Bushmaster has been very successful on operations, and we are working closely with the Netherlands Ministry of Defence to fulfil their ongoing requirements.
"This not only includes providing vehicles, but developing new technologies such as the recent counter-IED interrogation arm variant to support troops in the field."
"Our team in Bendigo, Victoria, are well-placed to continue delivering innovative solutions and services because of their unrivalled expertise and their many years experience in vehicle design, manufacturing and systems integration."
An additional EOS-SRWS (stabilized remote weapon station), which Thales is providing in conjunction with Australian-based EOS Ltd., forms part of the order.
About Thales
Thales is a global technology leader for the Aerospace, Space, Defence, Security and Transportation markets. In 2008, the company generated revenues of 12.7 billion euros (equivalent of AUD22.1 billion) with 68,000 employees in 50 countries. With its 25,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design, develop and deploy equipment, systems and services that meet the most complex security requirements. Thales has an exceptional international footprint, with operations around the world working with customers as local partners.
Thales Australia is a trusted partner of the Australian Defence Force and is also present in commercial sectors ranging from air traffic management to security systems and services. Employing around 3,500 people in over 35 sites across the country, Thales Australia recorded revenues of more than AUD1 billion in 2008.
Bushmaster images © Australian Department of Defence
Press contacts
Julian Elliott
Thales Australia
+61 (0)2 9562 3716
+61 (0)401 134 415
julian.elliott@thalesgroup.com.au
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