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Balancing Economic and Security Priorities Australia Orders 44 New Bushmasters from Thales.
On January 8, 2025, the Australian government signed a contract worth 100 million Australian dollars with Thales Australia to produce 44 additional Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles (PMVs). This investment, announced by the Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy, reflects Australia’s intent to strengthen its national security while supporting its local defense industry. For over two decades, the Bushmaster has been manufactured at Thales’ Protected Vehicle Centre of Excellence in Bendigo, Victoria, a key site for the country’s defense sector.
The 44 new vehicles will be allocated to the Australian Army’s second long-range fires regiment, based at the Edinburgh Defence Precinct in South Australia, as part of the long-range fires brigade (Picture source: Australian MoD )
This new contract ensures the continuity of production at Bendigo, sustaining hundreds of jobs locally and nationally within the supply chain. With over 1,300 vehicles produced, the Bushmaster has proven its operational effectiveness and has been exported to countries including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Japan. It has also been deployed in Ukraine, where it has been used effectively against Russian forces.
The Bushmaster is a 4x4 armored vehicle designed by Thales Australia, offering advanced protection against ballistic threats, mines, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Its monocoque welded steel body, combined with a V-shaped hull, deflects explosive forces, protecting mines containing up to 9.5 kg of TNT, as well as 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm small arms fire, including armor-piercing rounds when equipped with optional composite armor kits. The vehicle can be fitted with a remote weapon station capable of mounting 5.56 mm or 12.7 mm machine guns and can accommodate up to three pintle-mounted weapons. With a spacious cabin, it transports up to eight fully equipped soldiers alongside a crew of two, with ergonomic seating and four-point harness seat belts ensuring safety.
Powered by a Caterpillar 3126E turbo-diesel engine delivering 300 horsepower, paired with a ZF automatic six-speed transmission, the Bushmaster achieves a top speed of 100 km/h and has an operational range exceeding 800 km. Its independent Arvin Meritor 4x4 chassis and coil spring suspension enable excellent off-road mobility. Transportable by C-130 Hercules aircraft, the vehicle can be equipped with additional options such as a central tire inflation system, NBC protection, and a 10-ton hydraulic winch, enhancing its versatility for roles including troop transport, reconnaissance, medical support, and counter-IED operations.
The 44 new vehicles will be allocated to the Australian Army’s second long-range fires regiment, based at the Edinburgh Defence Precinct in South Australia, as part of the long-range fires brigade. These vehicles will provide advanced command and control capabilities, supporting weapons systems under acquisition through the Land 8113 Phase 2 project. This initiative aims to equip the Army with precision strike missiles, such as the Kongsberg Naval Strike Missile or Lockheed Martin’s Precision Strike Missile Increment 2, enhancing Australia’s maritime and land strike capabilities.
Additionally, the contract supports the ongoing development of the Bushmaster platform, which is evolving into its 5.5 version. This latest iteration introduces significant design changes, broadening the vehicle’s roles and capabilities. According to Jeff Connolly, CEO of Thales Australia and New Zealand, the investment demonstrates confidence in the country’s engineering and manufacturing expertise. He emphasized the Bushmaster’s ability to meet operational requirements while addressing the needs of allies and partners.
This new batch of Bushmasters also aligns with a broader strategy of international export and collaboration. The vehicle is being considered for major programs, including the British Army’s Land Mobility Programme (LMP), where it has been proposed as a medium-protected vehicle. Initial units are expected to be delivered from Australia before establishing local production in the United Kingdom, strengthening its international presence.
The order for these new Bushmasters underscores the Australian government’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces while supporting the domestic defense industry. By ensuring continued production at Bendigo, this investment secures jobs and fosters innovation, positioning the Bushmaster as a key component of Australia’s military capabilities and a reliable asset for international partners in the years to come.