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December 2013
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Quote of the month
NATIONAL NEWSLETTER
No 9 of 2013
"The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world
are the ones who do."
- Apple's "Think Different" commercial, 1997
In this issue
AIDN NATIONAL NEWS
AIDN-NEW SOUTH WALES
AIDN-NSW MEMBERS
AIDN-NSW MEMBERS’ NEWS
AIDN-QUEENSLAND
AIDN-QLD NEW MEMBERS
AIDN-QLD NEWS
DEFENCE TEAMING CENTRE (DTC)
DTC NEWS
AIDN-VICTORIA
AIDN-VIC NEW MEMBERS
AIDN-VIC MEMBERS' NEWS
AIDN-WESTERN AUSTRALIA
AIDN-WA MEMBERS’ NEWS
DEFENCE INDUSTRY NEWS
UPCOMING ACTIVITIES
AIDN NATIONAL NEWS
AIDN NATIONAL AGM
The National Executive AIDN held its Annual General Meeting at the AIDN offices in Melbourne on 28 November. Alan
Rankins, AIDN-NSW President, was elected the sixth AIDN National President and Rob Forbes from AIDN-ACT was elected as
the new Vice President.
Graham Priestnall stood down as the AIDN National President after five years of excellent service on behalf of Australian
SMEs. Graham especially thanked the Executive members for providing encouragement and positive support during the many
debates and planning programs through his term and underlined the value of their personal support with the courses of action
they had initiated and the goals achieved.
The National Committee thanked both Graham Priestnall, for his exceptional services as AIDN National President, and Mike
Turner for his services as immediate past President, a role now Graham takes up.
Following the AGM, the Executive discussed a number of issues facing SMEs in the defence and security industry which will
be discussed in future press releases from AIDN.
Rob Forbes, AIDN-ACT President was elected Vice President
Stephen Harvey, AIDN-Vic President was re-elected Treasurer
AIDN EXEC OFFICER’S MESSAGE
I would like to wish all AIDN members a relaxing break over the festive season and happy 2014 and thank you for your
support during 2013.
2013 was an extremely busy year for AIDN National with Australian SME’s continuing to experience a reduction in defence
work. This reduction is caused by various factors including; the delay in defence project schedules, the impact of the Strategic
Reform Program (SRP) on sustainment and purchasing decisions, which have not always considered the strategic benefit of
developing and sustaining a domestic defence industry capability and capacity.
AIDN hopes that 2014 will be a better year for ADF procurement and AIDN intends to try and maximise opportunities for
Australian SMEs.
Please note the AIDN offices will be closed from Friday afternoon 20 December and will reopen on Monday 6 January 2014.
Kind regards,
Sue Smith - AIDN Executive Officer
QUADRILATERAL CONFERENCE IN CANADA
In conjunction with the CANSEC 2014 in Ottawa, CADSI will host the next international Quadrilateral Conference in Canada.
The Quadrilateral Conference is an annual event where UK, USA, Canadian and Australian defence industry organisations
meet to discuss topics of interest. The next Quadrilateral will be held in Ottawa on Tuesday 27 May 2014. Please put this date
in your diary as this unique event “Defence & Security Business Collaboration - Delivering More” will include high profile
speakers from the four countries involved.
AIDN NATIONAL MEETING
The next AIDN National Meeting is scheduled to be held in Canberra on Monday 24 February 2014.
HAVE YOU GOT THE AIDN LOGO ON YOUR WEB SITE?
All financial members of AIDN are reminded that you can display the AIDN logo on your web site and promotional material.
Please contact Sharon Blondel Sharon.blondel@aidn.org.au if you would like an electronic version of the AIDN logo.
AIDN-New South Wales
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Hello again from the NSW chapter.
By the time you read this, our Christmas Function, the final function for the year, will probably be over and we will be well into
holiday mode.
As I look back on the year, we have achieved some significant objectives to benefit all members. The outstanding one of these
remains the establishment of the NSW JDIOs and the great relationship with the NSW Govt that arises from it. I believe the
JDIOs has been significant in the high level support we are now getting from the Premier, Deputy Premier, the Defence Advisor
and the team at Trade and Investment.
I would be remiss in not thanking all of your committee who have given their time to so many of the things we have achieved
this year. In this I give special mention to Anna Murray, who has spent a lot of time to keep us afloat financially, and Peter
Marinovic for his contribution to the success of the NSW YAA. And on this scale, I must give a triple special mention to Russell
Maddern and his functions team who have had a spectacularly successful year on our behalf, culminating in an outstanding
Annual Dinner. I really have no idea where Russell finds the time and energy for us, but the benefit we all see is extraordinary.
However, we will not be just focussed on the coming festivities, we will also be looking ahead to 2014. So if any member has
any ideas that will benefit all of us, please let me or John Small know so that we can factor everyone’s input into our 2014
plans.
With that, I would like to wish all of you, and your loved ones, a very happy and safe holiday season, and look forward to a
successful 2014.
Regards
Alan Rankins
NSW President
MEMBER NEWS – NATIONAL PRESIDENT
Our congratulations go to our NSW President Alan Rankins who now takes a step up the AIDN ladder having been elected as
the National President at the recent National AGM. Alan follows in the footsteps of Graham Priestnall who stepped down this
year after a very successful 5 year term in the office. Graham has presided over a significant improvement in our engagement
and influence with the Defence Minister and his Department, and significant development of both our policy position and our
strategic focus for the future. Graham is to be congratulated on his achievements and we look forward to Alan continuing the
good work with a new enthusiasm.
NOVEMBER BREAKFAST
Some 25 members attended on Thursday 7th November at the Masonic Club for our last Breakfast for the year to hear SME
Gateway and Epica Solutions talking about how to use SME Gateway to facilitate your professional services business with
Defence. This was another successful event.
CHRISTMAS FUNCTION - HMAS WATERHEN
Nearly 50 people are currently registered for this on 5th December. It is shaping up as another successful function on which to
finish the year.
AIDN NSW LINKEDIN GROUP
Join the group and see the latest topics at:http://www.linkedin.com/groupAnswers?
viewQuestionAndAnswers=&discussionID=219625553&gid=4706367&trk=eml-anet_dig-b_nd-pst_ttle-cn&ut=0lqgA_g29EFlE1
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Your committee met on 7th November:
Action to ensure our future financial position,
Further progress on online payment system,
Further progress on the 2012 Audit, and
Initial planning for 2014.
AIDN-NSW NEW MEMBERS
The following new member has joined AIDN-NSW.
LaserBond Limited
We reclaim worn and fatigued components at a fraction of the cost of replacement, whilst improving resistance to wear and
corrosion, and increasing service life. This is usually achieved in less time than a replacement can be sourced. New
components and replacement parts can also be surface engineered to provide extended service life. Laser cladding and
Thermal Spraying (HP HVOF) are used as a superior alternative to traditional hard facing and hard chrome plating in
challenging environments. This cutting edge and innovative technology is used in industries such as Aerospace, Marine,
Mining, Drilling and Steel Making.
The typical benefits are:
Lower running costs
Minimized down-time and breakdowns
Reduced waste of high value materials
Increased productivity/up time
Reduced spare parts inventory
Reduced environmental impact
For further information please contact:
Francis Bonomini
Email: francisb@laserbond.com.au
Phone: 02 4631 4500
Website: www.laserbond.com.au
AIDN-NSW MEMBERS’ NEWS
CHRIS JENKINS RECEIVES A FRENCH AWARD
AIDN congratulates Chris Jenkins, CEO of Thales Australia and NZ on being awarded the insigna of Kinght in the Ordre
National de la Légion d’Honneur on 5 December. The award recognises 25 years of professional activity.
QUICKSTEP TECHNOLOGIES WINS $1 MILLION GRANT FROM AUSTRALIAN
GOVERNMENT
Quickstep Holdings Limited, the manufacturer of high-grade carbon-fibre composite components, today announced that it has
been awarded a $1 million grant from the Australian government through the Department of Defence’s New Air Combat
Capability Industry Support Program. The grant will finance qualification of the Quickstep Process for manufacturing F-35
Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) vertical tail spars which provide stabilisation for aircraft in flight.
Through its agreement to manufacture parts for the JSF program, Quickstep expects to contribute to more than 700 JSF
shipsets of tails over the next twenty years. While Quickstep makes spars using autoclave systems, Quickstep’s patented
liquid-based process offers a faster, more cost-effective way to manufacture parts in series. The grant will fund Quickstep’s
work over three years with the JSF’s New Air Combat Capability, BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin Aerospace to develop
the case for changing the JSF’s spar-making technology from the autoclave to the Quickstep Process, produce demonstration
parts including a first part qualification spar, qualify Quickstep’s Bankstown Airport facilities to use the production method for
JSF spars, and establish a path for the transfer.
Quickstep managing director Philippe Odouard said: “We are grateful to the Australian Government for its continued support
which provides funding to take us through to production. The Quickstep Process offers a new efficient way to produce JSF
components at reduced cost while improving quality. This could assist Lockheed Martin’s affordability initiative program to
reduce F-35 costs for the program’s partner countries. If qualification is successful it should be accepted as an alternative to
the JSF program’s standard curing technology. This is exciting as it will showcase our capability for tail production and, as the
program develops, the Quickstep Process’ potential use to develop entire wing structures for next-generation commercial
aircraft manufacturers.”
The Quickstep Process involves surrounding raw carbon-fibre and resin with heated liquids which transfer heat 25 times faster
than traditional autoclave (or ‘oven-heated’) methods, enabling composite components to be cured more efficiently and at a
much lower cost.
The New Air Combat Capability Industry Support Program is a grants program intended to foster the development of new or
improved Australian industry capabilities that directly support the JSF program. The grant awarded to Quickstep will be funded
by the Department of Defence’s Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) and administered by AusIndustry, and is provided for
development of a JSF technology capability that has multiple applications.
Quickstep will manufacture 21 different parts for the JSF program at its Bankstown Airport facility. The overall agreement to
supply JSF parts to several different Original Equipment Manufacturers is valued at up to $700 million to the company over two
decades. At peak production rates, the company is expected to generate JSF revenue of approximately $40 million per annum.
AIDN-Queensland
AIDN-QLD NEW MEMBERS
lluminate Consultants
lluminate Consultants is a management consulting firm who focus on supporting clients to deliver transformational change and
operational improvement. This is achieved this by combining proprietary methodologies with high-end consultants who have
many years of industry experience and deep functional skills. We aim to build a deep understanding of our clients organisation,
enabling us to add significant value. Our goal is to pass on our knowledge and embed this within our clients organisation.
We are experts in project and change management and we run our engagements with the highest levels of rigour. At Illuminate
we feel strongly about sharing knowledge. Wherever we can, we provide insights and learning opportunities to our clients
based on the projects we are executing across our six industry verticals. Our approach to knowledge sharing allows clients to
view their opportunities through a different lens. We are not successful until client benefits are achieved.
Contact: Patrick Albina, Senior Consultant, patrickalbina@illuminateconsultants.com.au
AIDN-QLD NEWS
AVIATION AUSTRALIA RECOGNISED AT PREMIER OF QUEENSLAND EXPORT AWARDS
Aviation Australia has been selected as a finalist in the Education and Training category at the 2013 Premier of
Queensland Export Awards.
In 2012, Aviation Australia was awarded finalist in the same category and despite challenging global markets in the aviation
industry, the company has maintained an international competitive advantage through delivery of its internationally recognised
training programs.
Aviation Australia is a world class aviation training centre of excellence, established to support the growth of the aviation and
aerospace industries in Australia and all over the world.
Over 30,0000 personnel have gone through the facilities, for more than 150 customers, for both civil and military aviation
organisations worldwide.
The company was founded by the Queensland State Government in 2001 and exported its first product, a Certificate IV in
Aeroskills, in 2002 to Air Nugini; a relationship it maintains today.
In 2003, training was delivered to countries within the Asia-Pacific region and in recent years to the Middle East. Key
customers within the Middle East include the Royal Oman Police, Saudi Arabian National Guard and to the Security Aviation
Command.
“In the last financial year, 41 per cent of Aviation Australia’s revenue was made up of its export products,” Bill Horrocks, CEO
of Aviation Australia said.
NEW LEADER FOR DEFENCE HEALTH TROOPS
For the past 10 years, Defence Health has been under the capable leadership of David Lynch as Chief Executive Officer. In
that time the organisation experienced significant growth in membership – from 144,000 people covered to more than 220,000
now.
David has decided it’s time to set sail – quite literally – and embrace a retirement of travel and adventure.
The new Defence Health CEO is Major General Gerard Fogarty AO.
Gerard has had a very successful Defence career, specialising in leadership and human resource management. He also
served as Australia’s national commander on operations in Timor Leste in 2002 and the Middle East in 2007.
Although Gerard is leaving the Army, he is very pleased that he will continue to be a member of the Defence community, which
he has served for his whole working life. Gerard took up his new position on 18 November.
DEFENCE HEALTH 60TH BIRTHDAY
This year marks the 60th anniversary of Defence Health. For 60 years the health insurer has remained true to its core purpose
of helping the ADF and wider Defence community finance their personal and family health care.
The health care landscape looked vastly different in the 1950s. Up until the mid-1940s, public hospital patients faced strict
means testing and the majority had to bear the entire cost of their hospitalisation.
Even given the high cost, in the years following the Second World War, public hospitals were really struggling to cope with the
increase in demand for health care. The National Health Act 1953 was established and private health insurers started to enter
the sector to help meet the demand. Back in those days, insurers had to provide identical hospital cover, identical benefits and
– you guessed it – identical premiums.
Against the backdrop of uniform product and price, the Army Health Benefit Society (as it was known back then) differentiated
its offering with amazing customer service. It shaped a service culture that has been maintained ever since.
Unlike other health funds at the time, Defence Health was able to achieve national registration, which allowed for serving
families to remain covered as they moved around the country. And from the very beginning, Defence civilians were an
important part of the community.
Defence Health now covers more than 220,000 people from all areas of the Defence community. And they plan to be around
for at least another 60 years!
DEFENCE TEAMING CENTRE (DTC)
DTC NEWS
MARKET-LEADING S.A. REFRIGERATION GROUP ACQUIRED BY NATIONAL OPERATOR
Market-leading South Australian refrigeration and catering equipment provider - Hill Equipment & Refrigeration – has become
part of a national group under acquisition terms announced in Adelaide. In its first move into the SA market, Perth-based AJ
Baker & Sons Pty Ltd has acquired Dry Creek-based Hill Equipment & Refrigeration Co Pty Ltd for an undisclosed sum.
All 73 personnel employed by Hill Equipment & Refrigeration in Adelaide are to be engaged by AJ Baker. The acquisition will
become effective from 30th November, 2013.
Hill Equipment & Refrigeration is a major installer and service provider for commercial refrigeration and catering
equipment to a wide range of SA clients, including the Drake Foodland group, a major fuel franchise chain, developers of the
new Adelaide Oval grandstand facilities and training kitchens at the Regency International Centre for food studies. It is also a
specialist provider to Australia’s defence services.
The 36-year old Hill Equipment group has achieved strong growth in the past decade under Managing Director, Mr Mark
Turner, from a $10 million-a-year business to record annual revenue of $17.5 million in the past year to June 30, 2013. Further
growth is forecast for the current financial year.
“One of the biggest attractions of partnering AJ Baker in this deal is that it is a family business buying out another family
business,” Hill Equipment Chairman, Mr Keith Turner, said.
“There are therefore very strong ethics and motivation behind the opportunity to now further grow the Adelaide operation,” Mr
Turner said.
AJ Baker Chairman, Mr Peter Baker, said that the acquisition of the South Australian business completed a 10-year period of
expansion by the Perth group from a solely Western Australian-based refrigeration contracting company to one with a national
presence in the capital cities of all five mainland states.
“The acquisition will greatly increase the influence of ‘Baker Refrigeration’ within the Australian commercial refrigeration
market, in addition to the further opportunities that Hill Equipment and Refrigeration brings on board with its catering and
defence products.”
CODAN CELEBRATES NEW OFFICE OPENING IN DUBAI
Codan Radio Communications, a division of Codan Limited (ASX-CDA), announced the opening of its new office in
Dubai. The new office will extend Codan’s global presence to the Middle East and Africa, and support the increase in demand
and growth for High Frequency (HF) and Land Mobile Radio (LMR) communications equipment in these regions.
The Dubai office becomes an integral part of Codan’s worldwide sales and support network including offices in Australia, USA,
UK, Canada and China.
"Over Codan’s 50 year history, our aim has always been to provide our customers worldwide with the best service and support.
There is no better way to intimately know our customer requirements and meet their needs than face to face,” said Paul
McCarter, Codan’s Executive General Manager of the Radio Communications Division.
“The new office in Dubai ensures timelier service to our customers with in-country support and advice, and enables immediate
access to this growing market."
Codan also has 300 distribution and support centres around the world backed by Codan’s specialist field team of deployable
engineers.
THE CODAN ENVOY EVOLUTION HAS ARRIVED
Codan Radio Communications, a division of Codan Limited (ASX-CDA), announced the launch of its second major
capabilities upgrade to the Envoy HF Software Defined Radio (SDR).
Envoy is the world’s most advanced commercial HF radio, featuring digital voice for hiss-free communication, market-leading
RF performance, Ethernet and USB connectivity, and a large high-resolution display with a smart phone like user interface. A
true SDR, Envoy protects the value of the customers’ investment through its extensive feature set and future upgradeability.
Envoy’s new features include a full MIL-STD-188-110A/B high-speed modem for secure communications up to 9600bit/s, and
upgraded IP connectivity that enables remote control / operation over minimal bandwidth links. Envoy’s USB capability has
also been enhanced to enable fast and convenient fill of up to 256 encryption keys direct from USB memory sticks.
“With unique features and software upgradeability, Envoy provides today’s features and tomorrow’s capabilities in the one
radio. We have designed the Envoy so it can always evolve with new innovations and our customers’ needs without increasing
their costs,” said Paul McCarter, Codan’s Executive General Manager of the Radio Communications Division.
Codan is committed to the evolution of Envoy, investing in research and development to ensure Envoy is continuously at the
forefront of HF communication innovation.
GRADUATION OF FUTURE DEFENCE LEADERS
Responding to defence industry needs in South Australia, the DTC held its inaugural South Australian Defence Industry
Leadership Program (SADILP) in 2010, graduating 18 participants, 2011 - 28 participants, and in 2012 – 23 Participants. In
2013 the DTC has graduated a new crop of future defence leaders.
In a graduation ceremony, honoured by the attendance of His Excellency Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce AC CSC RANR,
Governor of South Australia, 22 new graduates of the SADILP joined the alumni of the program as the future leaders of the SA
defence industry, stepping up to the mantle as our future CEOs and Managing Directors of the businesses that are so vital to
the State’s economy.
The Merit Award, recognising commitment and contribution to the defence industry and the program while demonstrating
leadership qualities and determination, was awarded to Steve Furber, Manager Defence Projects from Kadego Pty Ltd.
The Achievement Award dedicated to a person that demonstrated their willingness to grow personally and professionally as
well as exemplifying attitude, motivation and self-awareness, was awarded to Mat Borgas, Engineer from Babcock Pty Ltd.
The final award, chosen by the program “Sheriff” and aptly named The Sheriff’s Award, was awarded to someone who built the
programs sense of camaraderie, team work and most importantly fun. This year’s recipient of the Sheriff’s Award was Tammy
Chau, Babcock Pty Ltd.
The South Australian Government Department of Further Education, Employment, Science and Technology (DFEEST)
recognises the value of both the defence sector and this development program, and is proud to co-fund it along with
contribution from each participant’s employer.
THE ROYAL NORWEGIAN NAVY ACQUIRES KONGSBERGS SEA PROTECTOR
Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) has signed a contract for the delivery of Sea PROTECTOR Remote
Weapon Stations (RWS) for the Royal Norwegian Navy (RNoN) combat vessels.
The contract is entered between the Norwegian Defence Logistics Organization (NDLO) and KONGSBERG, represented by the
Naval Systems & Surveillance Division.
The contract has an overall scope of 133 MNOK ($24.5m AUD).
Sea PROTECTOR is a remotely controlled, fully stabilized sensor platform and weapon mount. It enhances the vessels
capability in surveillance- and control missions. It provides self-defense and increased capability to counter asymmetric threats
through improved hit accuracy. Own crew remains safe and unexposed to hostile fire on the bridge and in the CIC.
This contract is an important reference for KONGSBERG as a compact weapon control systems supplier for small and medium
size vessels, as well as Ship borne Protection Systems.
SAAB SIGNS CONTRACT TO UPGRADE AUSTRALIAN SUBMARINE SUB-SYSTEM
Defence and security company Saab has signed a contract with Australian Submarine Corporation, (ASC) to update and
modernise the Integrated Ship Control Management and Monitoring System (ISCMMS) on the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins
Class Submarines. The contract has a total value of SEK 197 million (approx. 32 million Australian dollars).
The ISCMMS system provides the submarine manoeuvring control and integrated platform systems management. Originally
developed by Saab it has proven to be a very reliable system of the Australian Collins-Class Submarine.
The modernisation program involves updating electronic components and systems to alleviate upcoming obsolescence issues
and porting the ISCMMS software to ensure the ISCMMS continues operating dependably into the future.
“ISCMMS has been a very successful part of the Collins Class Submarine and is critical to its on-going operations. With this
contract, ASC and the Australian Navy continue to show faith in Saab’s high-tech solutions and world-class system integration
capability,” says Saab Systems Australia Managing Director, Dean Rosenfield
Steve Ludlam, ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, said ASC was extremely pleased to have Saab on board
for this important project.
SAAB SYSTEMS HAS CHANGED ITS NAME TO SAAB AUSTRALIA PTY LTD.
Effective November 2013 Saab Systems in Australia is now known as ‘Saab Australia Pty Ltd’. “Our new name reflects
both our diversified business today that spans the defence, security and traffic management markets and our future product
offerings as part of the global Saab group.” said Dean Rosenfield, Managing Director Saab Australia.
While it will be business as usual with existing relationships with their valued customers in Australia and New Zealand the new
company structure is very much focused on marketing and providing regional support for the incredibly broad Saab portfolio of
high technology products, services and capabilities.
UPCOMING DTC NETWORKING EVENTS:
DTC End of Year Networking Event
Thursday December 12 2013
5pm – 6.30pm
Naval, Military & Air Force Club
111 Hutt Street Adelaide
Register at http://e.mybookingmanager.com/dtcnet13
Cost: $38.50 (inc GST) DTC Members, $49.50 (inc GST) Non- Members
Join the DTC for our End of Year Networking Event. An opportunity to meet DTC members, share experiences, identify
opportunities and to celebrate the year that was.
BAE SYSTEMS’ ADVANCED MANUFACTURING MILESTONE
Australia’s most advanced aerospace components manufacturing facility was opened recently by Premier Jay Weatherill.
BAE Systems’ $10 million investment in the machining facility is part of a collaborative agreement with the State
Government and Rosebank Engineering, which has established a metal processing and finishing facility located in Wingfield.
Mr Weatherill said: “This investment reinforces the South Australian Government’s long-term commitment to build and grow our
state’s advanced manufacturing industries.
“Bringing together BAE Systems and Rosebank to fill a niche capability in advanced manufacturing will deliver long-term
benefits for South Australians.”
BAE Systems Chief Executive David Allott said: “This project is underpinned by BAE Systems’ participation in the F-35 Joint
Strike Fighter supply chain over the next 20 years.
“Our involvement in supplying parts for the next generation strike fighter provided the catalyst to invest in expanding our
advanced manufacturing capability.”
The State Government and BAE Systems’ investment includes a purpose-built facility on the Edinburgh Parks site and a new
machine - the only one of its type in the Southern Hemisphere – the Starrag BTP5000.
“Work on the Joint Strike Fighter vertical tail components is a significant part of BAE Systems advanced manufacturing
business and it has underpinned our continued investment in manufacturing - $20 million over 20 years,” Mr Allott said.
“I am confident that our investment will provide opportunities to grow our manufacturing business in coming years.
“Having an expanded machining capability and increased production capacity, together with a highly skilled and experienced
workforce, will help to secure new opportunities in aviation or commercial industries as well as future defence projects.”
The new titanium machining facility at Edinburgh Parks is complemented by Rosebank Engineering’s investment in an
advanced metals finishing facility which will be completed in early 2014.
“Together, and with the support of the State Government, we will fill a capability and capacity gap that currently exists in
advanced manufacturing in Australia.
“Our Company will continue to leverage this opportunity, and, as the business grows, we aim to continue to invest in new
research and technology to retain our position in the market.”
AIDN-Victoria
The following 3 new members have joined AIDN-Vic. They are:
AIDN-Vic NEW MEMBERS
Emergency Warning Systems Ltd
EWS has developed, patented and deployed radio break-in messaging technology that is able to communicate to a target zone
across all radio stations operating in that zone.
Being highly targeted, different messages can be sent to different zones on the sale radio stations simultaneously. The
technology is targeted at the defence and emergency services sectors and can be deployed as mobile, fixed or trailer-mounted
units.
Please contact: Geoff Drucker, Managing Director, Phone: 0419817827 gdrucker@ewsp.com.au
Melbourne Gravity Pty Ltd
Melbourne Gravity is one of Australia’s oldest and most knowledgeable gravity die-casting operations which have reliably
delivered high quality permanent mould aluminium castings for over half a century. Located in Coburg Melbourne, Melbourne
Gravity is 100% Australian owned and operated, full service provider with over 50 years experience.
Melbourne Gravity: Our engineers and technical staff will work in partnership with a clients own engineers on the design of
castings to ensure smooth production and optimum performance of the finished product.
SERVICES INCLUDE:
Product Design assistance
Tool Design to cast the required component
Tool Manufacture
Casting simulation and stress analysis on the component
Metallurgical advice on material properties and selection
Low Pressure and Gravity diecasting of Aluminium component
Machining and polishing of the casting
Heat Treatment of castings to T6
Impregnation of the casting to ensure pressure tightness
Hard Anodising to required corrosion resistance or colour
MIL-A-8625 Type III
Precision CNC Machining to achieve tight tolerances
Cosmetic coating including, Powder coating or Wet painting.
Contact: Alan Quadling, Business Development Manager, Phone: 03 9354 7529 alan@melbournegravity.com.au
Thycon Industrial
Thycon Industrial is an Australian Power Conversion Manufacturer with more than 25 year’s experience in supplying equipment
to the Australian Defence Fore including RAAF, RAN operations.
Our focus is on engineered reliability and 25 year product design. Australian Design capabilities.
Please contact: Josh Egbers, Sales Manager Phone: 03 9319 9000 josh.egbers@thycon.com.au
AIDN-Vic MEMBERS' NEWS
AUSTRALIAN AEROSONDE UAS SHOWN TO PALAU
Aerosonde, the Melbourne, Australia UAS business, has completed the demonstration of one of its UAV to the government
of the Marshal islands.
The demonstration, sponsored by Australian mining millionaire Andrew Forest, was to demonstrate how the aircraft could help
protect its exclusive economic zone and preserve its diminishing stocks of tuna fish.
The UAV was launched from the roof of a car and was recovered by the use of a net. A division of AAI Corporation, the US
subsidiary of Textron, acquired Aerosonde several years ago.
Earlier this year Aerosonde, based in Melbourne, delivered its 400th UAV. In 2012 Aerosonde, was awarded a contract to
manufacture Mk 4.7G unmanned aircraft as part of AAI Corporation’s US$1.5 billion contract to supply UAV systems for the US
Department of Defense.
Aerosonde is now owned by AAI. The company was contracted to the Special Operations Command and the US Navy.
The efficiency of the drone was reduced by engine problems with the head of Textron telling analysts and its Q3 financial
briefing that its Lycoming subsidiary is now to overhaul the aircraft’s engines and build them in the future.
VALE JAMES BAKER
AIDN-Vic is saddened to advise that James Baker, of Marand Precision Engineering passed away after a 3 year battle with
cancer on Tuesday 26 November.
AIDN’s first contact with James was when he worked at Aerostaff in the 90s. He then went on to work for Apollo Metals,
ThyssenKrupp, Production Parts and finally at Marand.
He also served on the AIDN-Vic Executive Committee from December 2009. He was highly thought of throughout his long
association with the defence industry and he will be missed by us all.
James leaves behind his beautiful wife, Nicole and two children, Abbey & Tate and he also leaves behind a huge number of
true friends, all over the world and his tenacity and doggedness to get to the last opportunity has brought him in touch with
many of you. He was always the consummate gentleman.
VALE KYRAN MELDRUM
Kyran Meldrum who was the AIDN-Vic representative for The PAC Group until his retirement in October 2010, passed away
very suddenly on 23 October.
AIDN Vic members who have worked in the automotive industry would have known Kyran.
IS YOUR WORKPLACE SAFE?
Environmental Fluid Systems is pleased to announce that it has set up a Work Safety initiative we are also proud to announce
the launch our workplace safety mini-site “Is your workplace making you sick?” This interactive tool has been designed as an
easy to use education resource highlighting the prolific use of some very harmful chemicals in everyday workplace products.
To find out what could be making you sick at work visit: www.worksafety.envirofluid.com
NOVENTUS IS FORMALLY RECOGNISED AS ONE OF AUSTRALIA'S FASTEST GROWING
SMES
At a Crowe Horwath awards ceremony in Melbourne, Noventus Pty Ltd has been formally acknowledged for excellence in
the Professional Services domain. The Crowe Horwath Smart50 Award recognises and celebrates Noventus as one of
Australia's fastest growing SMEs in 2012-13.
For more information visit http://www.smartcompany.com.au/smart50-2013.html
The economic downturn since 2008 has been a troublesome time for most business. Many have failed – but just as many
entrepreneurs took this downturn as an opportunity. Keith Armstrong, founder of the multi-disciplinary ICT and Engineering
consulting group - Noventus, took the plunge – and it has paid off. “There was not a great deal of CAPEX. Also it was
challenging getting the word out that we could provide the same, and often better, outcomes than our competitors with superior
value and service,” Armstrong says. “This was overcome by sheer hard work and belief in our business model.”
Noventus is now a preeminent national consulting firm specialising in customised advisory services for Government and large
blue chip multi-national systems integrators across the full project lifecycle. Noventus teams are currently deployed in all
Australian major capital cities and regional hubs. The Noventus diversified service offerings are solving complex problems by
applying unified Systems Engineering, Project Management, Multi-Disciplinary Engineering, Test & Evaluation, Logistics,
Security, and ICT solutions.
Moving forward, Armstrong has developed a “multi-faceted growth strategy”. "It involves base retention (maintaining strong
client relationships), moving in adjacent markets (creating new clients through new ideas generation and thought leadership),
and increasing out market coverage and position ourselves in rising markets,” he says.
EXELIS C4i PROVIDES COMPREHENSIVE COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM TO LEADING OIL
AND GAS COMPANY
Exelis C4i, a business unit of Exelis Inc, has been selected by Woodside Energy Ltd to implement a site-wide
communications system at the Karratha Gas Plant (KGP), affirming the suitability of the system for the oil and gas industry.
The Exelis C4i communications system, called SwitchplusIP, will be operational at KGP for 10 years. Located in Western
Australia, KGP is one of the most advanced integrated gas production systems in the world. Woodside operates KGP’s
facilities as part of the North West Shelf Project, which constitutes Australia’s largest oil and gas resource development and
accounts for more than 40 percent of Australia’s oil and gas production.
With mobile and distributed workforce focused on increased productivity, safety and security, SwitchplusIP® allows KGP site
workers and control room operators to seamlessly communicate using a variety of technologies. The Exelis C4i system
consists of core equipment at KGP’s technical office and radio interfacing equipment at its technical office, central control room
and security gatehouse.
“Our system is ideally suited to the resources sector because it enables safety improvements and cost reductions for complex
worksites,” said Peter Harrison, managing director for the Exelis C4i business. “We see opportunities for growth in this market
as our technology allows for the future migration to digital radio technologies and the ongoing integration of newer, more
mobile applications. As a leading provider of critical network solutions to customers around the world, our goal is to provide a
technology that improves workflow efficiencies, security and safety.”
SwitchplusIP® can be mobile or land-based and uses VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) technology to integrate legacy and
modern equipment. The system is fault tolerant and has network redundancy to ensure high availability, minimum downtime
and rapid access to vital tactical communication assets at all times.
Exelis C4i is based in Melbourne, Australia, and provides advanced communications software that supports mission-critical
communications for a range of applications including air traffic management, defense, public safety, mining and homeland
security. C4i Pty. Ltd. was acquired by Exelis in January 2013.
AIDN-Western Australia
AIDN-WA MEMBERS’ NEWS
BAE SYSTEMS SIGNS UP FOR LONG-TERM FUTURE
BAE Systems has signed two leases for shorefront land and the adjacent seabed at its Henderson marine facility ensuring
the company’s significant presence and future in the maritime sector in Western Australia.
The leases have been signed with state land authority LandCorp and the Fremantle Port Authority for 25 years and 17 years
respectively.
Director Maritime, Bill Saltzer said the agreements reinforced the commitment BAE Systems was making to its defence,
resources and commercial customers in Western Australia.
“The seabed lease and the renewal of the shorefront land at Henderson is significant to the next phase of growth for the
company,” he said.
“As part of our commitment, we will invest more than $20 million in the facility that will include a new office building, shiplift
upgrades and additional rail facilities. The agreements and the investment in the Henderson operation will enable BAE
Systems grow its business in new and adjacent markets.
“In the past year, we have made significant improvements to the site including resurfacing and sealing of the 14.5 hectare
yard, completion of the upgrade and extension works to the existing dry berths, construction of an additional dry berth and
upgrade and extension of the main dry berth.”
Mr Saltzer said that only three years ago BAE Systems Henderson facility had less than 60 employees but since then the
company had reviewed its target markets and realigned the business to support growth into new markets, including the
resource sector.
“The resources and energy projects along with commercial and defence ship repairs currently underway, has boosted
employment at the site - we now have a workforce of over 500.
“Together with LandCorp and with the guidance of the WA Department of Commerce, BAE Systems is pleased to make a
long-term commitment to its future at Henderson.”
DEFENCE INDUSTRY NEWS
TOWNSVILLE FACILITY FOR EMBARKING LHDS
A new $85 million facility to be used by the Australian Army’s Amphibious Readiness Element (ARE) to embark on the Navy’s
Landing Helicopter Docks (LHDs) was officially opened at the Port of Townsville October 18, 2013.
The new Wharf 10 facility will allow for more direct loading of personnel and equipment from shore to ship for the ARE,
comprised mainly of 2RAR personnel. ARE is a subset of the Amphibious Ready Group (ARG).
The ADF’s ARG construct comprises a medium weight Battle Group of 2056 personnel and associated stores, comprising
infantry, armour, artillery, engineers and vehicles and is supported by the Tiger armed reconnaissance helicopters (ARH) and
medium lift helicopters.
An ARG is expected to be capable of conducting coordinated air and surface ship-to-objective- manoeuvre (STOM) assaults
from 30 nautical miles over the horizon (OTH).
Short notice amphibious capability will be provided by an ARE, based on an infantry company with protected mobility, indirect
fire support and ISTAR assets. An ARE may include medium lift helicopters.
ARE should be capable of conducting coordinated air and surface STOM type actions, of up to four platoon/troop elements,
from 30nm OTH.
Direct access from the wharf to the ship would decrease the time it took to load the ships, greatly enhancing the ARE reaction
speed to a natural disaster.
This will allow the ARE to get a foot on the ground to start providing life support to devastated areas sooner, and thereby
greatly enhancing ADF operational capabilities.
The new facility could also be used by US Marines based in Australia.
According to Janes the US Navy is considering the deployment of a third ARG to the Pacific to support US Marine Corps units
rotating through Darwin, Australia.
The two-ship ARG would include the LPD 17 class and a large deck amphibious ship, possibly a JHSV, making it the third
ARG in the Western Pacific.
The USN has a fleet of 31 amphibious ships to support 10 ARGs. Courtesy of ADM
NZ DIA SELECTS BAE SYSTEMS DETICA FOR ICT SECURITY PANEL
BAE Systems Detica has been selected by the NZ Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) as a supplier for the government’s
professional security services panel.
The new panel will provide a range of security services to different New Zealand government agencies.
BAE Systems Detica anticipates delivering services which will include:
computer forensics, investigation and security incident response;
risk management, assessment and assurance;
security governance, architecture and design;
security consulting and review;
certification and assurance; and
network and application security testing. Courtesy of ADM
NOT UPGRADING BUT ‘RETROGRADING’ OUR CHINOOKS
Oregon-based aircraft operating company Columbia Helicopters, is assisting the Australian Army in the retrograde of its two
CH-47D Chinook multi-mission helicopters from Afghanistan.
Some 15 Columbia Helicopters employees, including mechanics and electricians, as well as quality control and supervisory
personnel, have been preparing the helicopters for shipment in Kandahar, Afghanistan, under a contract with the ADF, since
August 2013.
Specifically, the work involves removal of the rotor blades and heads, forward transmission, aft pylons and aft vertical shafts,
which, along with the helicopter airframes, will be loaded aboard a RAA F’s C17 aircraft for return to Australia. The technicians
also carried out heavy phase maintenance on the CH 47D helicopters. Having flown 5,600 sorties since deployment on
Operation Slipper in 2006, the two helicopters are scheduled to be returned to the 5th Aviation Regiment at the RAAF base in
Townsville, Queensland.
Columbia Helicopters marketing vice-president, Todd Petersen, said the company has been working with the Australian Army
in Kandahar over the last three-years. “Columbia Helicopters maintenance crews will accompany the helicopters to Townsville,
where they will reassemble the aircraft,” he said.
Even though the contract work is scheduled to complete by the end of this month, the company will continue to maintain a fulltime, on-site presence in Townsville, helping the army with maintenance support on the CH 47D for the next several years.
AUSTRALIA AND US SIGN DEFENCE SPACE COOPERATION AGREEMENT
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) covering the relocation of a highly advanced US space surveillance telescope to the
Harold E Holt Naval Communication Facility in Exmouth has been signed in Washington by Defence Minister David Johnston
and his US counterpart, Chuck Hagel.
“As a key outcome of the Australia-US Ministerial Consultations in Washington DC, US Secretary of Defense Hagel and I
signed an MoU regarding the relocation of the US space surveillance telescope to the Harold E. Holt naval base,” Senator
Johnston said.
“This is a significant initiative under the Australia-US Space Situational Awareness Partnership, and will provide an important
capability for both Australia and the US.
“Like all modern economies, Australia relies upon space for a range of purposes, including national security, banking,
navigation, communications and weather forecasting. Often we do not realise that the technologies upon which our modern
lifestyles depend both utilise and rely on assured access to space-based capabilities.
“Just as our dependence on space is growing, however, so too are the risks to our access to space. These risks include
increasing congestion of international and commercial space use, and the growing amount of orbiting space debris. The
consequences of collisions in space can be devastating and uncontrollable.”
The space surveillance telescope will assist in addressing these risks by improving the ability to monitor space over the
southern hemisphere.
The highly advanced technology of the telescope will enable it to observe objects in space out to 36,000km above the earth.
The telescope, which will be operated by Australia on behalf of the US, will contribute to the US global Space Surveillance
Network, which provides warnings to all satellite operators of potential collisions with other satellites or debris.
The telescope will complement another initiative to also relocate a C-band space surveillance radar to Exmouth.
Under the signed agreement, Australia will be responsible for constructing a building at the Harold E. Holt facility to house the
telescope, and will share the costs of operating and maintaining the telescope with the US Air Force.
The telescope is expected to operate from 2016.
Consistent with long-standing policy, these activities will take place with the full knowledge and concurrence of the Australian
Government.
This initiative represents a giant leap forward in Australia-US defence space cooperation, and will have benefits not only for
our respective countries, but also every nation and individual that relies upon space on a daily basis. Courtesy of ADM
STEALTH TECHNOLOGY EXPERT WINS MINISTER’S SCIENCE AWARD
A stealth technology expert, responsible for significantly enhancing the survivability of military vehicles and vessels, has won
the 2013 Minister’s Award for Achievement in Defence Science.
Assistant Minister for Defence, Stuart Robert MP, congratulated Dr Andrew Amiet from the Defence Science and Technology
Organisation (DSTO) for developing new solutions and techniques that have resulted in better stealth technology for Australia.
Mr Robert said Dr Amiet’s advice aided the survivability of current ADF vehicles and vessels and contributed to through-life
cost savings and reductions in maintenance requirements.
“Dr Amiet is responsible for developing and evaluating materials with stealth capabilities for use on submarines, ANZAC ships
and Army vehicles to minimise their detection by radar, sonar, infrared and other electronic systems, thus significantly
improving their operational capability,” Mr Robert said.
“Dr Amiet’s achievement is a fine example of the brilliant scientific minds that make a significant contribution to Defence
capability.”
Welcoming the Minister’s recognition, Dr Amiet said his aim has been to provide the Australian Defence Force with a capability
edge by reducing the probability of vehicles and vessels being detected and classified, thus enhancing range advantage and
increasing the effectiveness of counter measures.
Since 2005 Dr Amiet has led the development, local Australian manufacture by Mackay Consolidated Industries, and the
installation of novel radar absorbing materials.
Chief Defence Scientist Dr Alex Zelinsky said Dr Amiet’s outstanding scientific skills and research have delivered a suite of
stealth products from very light radar absorbing materials to high-density structural systems which have proved effective in a
wide range of ADF applications.
An acknowledged world-leading expert in radar absorbing materials, Dr Amiet is now researching advanced systems based on
metamaterials designed to switch on and off between frequencies depending on the environment in which a vessel is
operating.
The Minister’s Award for Achievement in Defence Science has been presented annually since 1988, recognising outstanding
and original contributions capable of enhancing Australia’s defence effectiveness and efficiency.
LAND WARFARE CONFERENCE TO BECOME LAND FORCES
Some readers may have noticed that the biennial Land Warfare Conference (LWC) has all but disappeared.
This is because the organisers of the Avalon Air Show and the Pacific Maritime shows, the Aerospace Maritime and Defence
Foundation of Australia a not-for-profit corporation, have been granted the task by Chief of Army to reorganise how the event is
run.
To be known as Land Forces, Land Forces 2014 will run between September 22 and 25 in Brisbane next year.
The event will still have the annual Chief of Army exercise/conference running alongside it with the usual trade show attached.
Like other domain shows, there will a plethora of parallel symposia on relevant land topics.
Finer details of the transfer to the AMDA are still being confirmed. Courtesy of ADM
RMMVA HOSTS LAND 121 3B SUPPLIER DAYS
Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Australia (RMMVA) hosted a series of Supplier Days in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra,
Darwin, Melbourne and Sydney in November 2013.
The response has been overwhelming with more than 500 companies attending Australia wide.
These Supplier Days provided Australian industry with an opportunity to engage with RMMVA and some of its key
subcontractors in order to explore opportunities relating to the LAND 121 3B defence project.
The Commonwealth of Australia has contracted with RMMVA to supply and support mission systems for a medium heavy
wheeled logistic vehicle capability consisting of approximately 2,500 vehicle systems and approximately 3,000 modules under
LAND 121 Phase 3B.
As RMMVA managing director Peter Hardisty explains, “RMMVA, in close cooperation with our key subcontractors, is actively
engaging with Australian industry to enable as many Australian companies to be part of this exciting program as possible.”
“The products and services we are seeking include the design, development and production of specific hardware such as
modules, some vehicle bodies, sub-systems and components as well as project management and systems integration,
developmental, test and evaluation work,” Hardisty added.
RMMVA is working together with the respective State Governments, DMO Business Access Offices and Australian Industry
Associations to involve Australian industry in this ground breaking defence project. Courtesy of ADM
UPCOMING ACTIVITIES
ADM 2014 Defence/Industry
Congress - 25 - 26 Feburary,
2014, Canberra.
Singapore Air Show - 11 - 16
February, 2014, Changi
Exhibition Centre
This major Defence/Industry
Conference has evolved into a pivotal
event in the Defence calendar,
attracting over 250 delegates each
year. Note AIDN has negotiated
a special SME rate. More details to
come.
Singapore Airshow is all about creating
opportunities for aerospace industry
representatives across the world to
connect, do business, find out about the
latest innovations and exchange ideas
to spearhead developments across the
industry. Team Defence Australia will
have a presence at this event.
Enquiries: ADM Events - Keith Barks,
Ph: 02 9080 4342;
Enquiries:
Defence and ITAR Trade
Controls from a non-US
Perspective – workshops - 12 28 February, 2014,
For those new to the topic, the course
will be an ideal and comprehensive
introduction to this extremely important
topic. For those with prior experience or
knowledge, the course provides a good
opportunity to brush up on recent
changes, ask questions, and network
with defence trade control managers
from other businesses. This workshop is
Email: keith.barks@informa.com
Web: www.admevents.com.au
Web: http://www.singaporeairshow.com
proudly supported by Enterprise
Connect’s Defence Industry Innovation
Centre for SME’s. Free to SME’s
various locations and dates
Enquiries:
Web: export-controls-training.com
Land Forces 2014 - 22 - 25
September in Brisbane
The Land Forces Conference is a major
event for users, providers, academics,
designers and manufacturers to meet,
present, share and exchange new and
visionary ideas on Land Systems. More
details to come.
AIDN ACTIVITIES LIST FOR 2013
December 10
DMO Defence Update Victoria
AIDN-Vic
12
DTC End of Year Networking Event
DTC
17
AIDN-Vic Submarine Briefing
AIDN-Vic
Contact your local AIDN Chapter for more info on the above activities:
AIDN National
Phone: 03.9885 0907
admin@aidn.org.au
AIDN-Canberra
Phone: 02.6283 5240
zoe.carroll@aidn.com.au
AIDN-NSW
Phone: 0421 345 637
nswxo@aidn.org.au
AIDN-NT
Phone: +61 8 8947 2033
xo@aidnnt.com.au
AIDN-Qld
Phone: 041 222 7375
kevjcar@tpg.com.au
DTC
Phone: 08 8260 8256
business@dtc.org.au
AIDN-Tas
Phone: 0418-591-479
aidntas@aidn.org.au
AIDN-Vic
Phone: 03.9886 9278
aidnvic@aidnvic.org.au
AIDN-WA
Phone: 08 9427 0806
aidn@casm.com.au
Have you got a story or a news item to
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CAN WE HELP YOU?
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require any assistance with defence industry
issues, please contact the AIDN office:
AIDN, PO Box 334, Ashburton Vic 3147,
Ph: 03.9885 0907
Why? So we can tell all our Member Companies about it, and also the
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aerospace sector who receive the AIDN Newsletter.
admin@aidn.org.au
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Inc. Not all third-party events included in the
UPCOMING ACTIVITIES section are
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