Australian New Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicles to Feature Pearson Engineering’s Combat Dozer Blades.

Pearson Engineering, a UK-based specialist in combat engineering systems, has been awarded a significant contract by Hanwha Defence Australia (HDA) for the supply of 131 combat dozer blades. These blades are set to be integrated with the Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), a next-generation combat vehicle selected by the Australian Defence Force under the LAND 400 Phase 3 program. The contract follows extensive Risk Mitigation Activities (RMA) conducted in Australia, where the combat dozer blade demonstrated its operational effectiveness and durability in challenging environments, affirming its readiness for full-scale deployment.
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A Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle equipped with Pearson Engineering’s combat dozer blade, designed to enhance obstacle-clearing and battlefield mobility capabilities under Australia’s LAND 400 Phase 3 program(Picture source: Pearson Engineering)

The LAND 400 Phase 3 program is one of Australia’s most ambitious armored vehicle modernization projects. It aims to replace the aging M113 Armoured Personnel Carriers with up to 450 advanced Infantry Fighting Vehicles to enhance the Army’s close combat capability. After an intensive evaluation process, the Redback IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicle)—developed by South Korea's Hanwha Defense—was chosen as the preferred platform. The Redback combines high levels of protection, mobility, and firepower, including an advanced 30mm cannon, active protection systems, and integrated C4ISR capabilities. It is designed to operate effectively in high-threat environments while ensuring the survivability of its crew and dismounts.

The integration of the combat dozer blade to the front of the Redback IFV significantly expands the platform’s utility, allowing it to perform a broader range of battlefield engineering tasks. Dozer blades mounted on the front of IFVs serve critical operational purposes, such as clearing battlefield obstacles, creating vehicle fighting positions, removing debris, and performing limited earthmoving activities. This enhances the tactical mobility of mechanized formations, especially in urban or rugged terrain where movement may be impeded by natural or man-made obstructions. It also enables rapid route clearance and the preparation of defensive positions without requiring the deployment of dedicated engineer vehicles, thereby increasing battlefield efficiency and responsiveness.

The dozer blade will be connected to the Redback via Pearson Engineering’s Vehicle Interface Kit, a modular system that enables rapid attachment and detachment of various types of Front-End Equipment (FEE). This interface is a central component of Pearson’s design philosophy, allowing operators to tailor the IFV for specific missions. Should operational needs evolve, the dozer blade can be replaced with other engineering systems such as mine ploughs, counter-IED rollers, or surface clearance devices without any additional mechanical redesign. This modularity ensures that the Redback remains future-proof and mission-adaptable.

As part of its Australian Industrial Content (AIC) commitment, Pearson Engineering is taking concrete steps to localize the supply and integration of the dozer blade system. A network of Australian suppliers has been established to handle component fabrication, hydraulic systems, electrical harnesses, assembly, and testing. This initiative is aligned with Australia’s strategic goal to strengthen sovereign defense manufacturing capabilities and foster long-term industrial self-reliance. By building M-AIT (Manufacturing, Assembly, Integration, and Test) capabilities in-country, Pearson is contributing not only to the effectiveness of the Australian Army but also to the growth and resilience of the national defense industry.

Pearson Engineering’s combat dozer blades are fielded globally across a wide range of armored vehicle platforms. Each system is specifically engineered to match the host vehicle’s physical configuration and operational requirements, reflecting a deep understanding of the diverse environments and mission profiles faced by modern military forces. The company's involvement in the LAND 400 Phase 3 program builds upon its established partnership with the Australian Defence Force, which also includes support for the LAND 907 program focused on the M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tank and associated combat engineering vehicles. Through this contract, Pearson Engineering reinforces its role as a key enabler of mission success for combat vehicles deployed in demanding operational scenarios.