Australia: Electro Optic Systems to supply remote weapon stations for Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles.

Australian company Electro Optic Systems (EOS) has been chosen as the supplier of remote weapon stations for the Australian Army’s new Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles (CRV). The remote weapon stations enable soldiers to fire a range of weapons, while crucially still remaining safe inside their armoured vehicles.

Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles (CRV) of the Australian Defence Force (Picture source: Australian MoD)

Minister for Defence, Christopher Pyne MP, was delighted to make this announcement at the EOS stand at Land Forces 2018 Exhibition in Adelaide, and said this announcement would increase Australian industry involvement in the project. “This is a great outcome for Australia, the Australian Defence Force and Australian industry that reinforces our focus on building an Australian defence industry,” Minister Pyne said. “An Australian defence industry success story, Electro Optic Systems is poised to become the nation’s largest defence exporter.”

Minister Pyne also announced today EOS’ newest Remote Weapon System (RWS), the R150. Following a Commonwealth investment of $3.4 million in 2013 to develop the next generation of RWS, EOS has developed the R150 which delivers the same capability in a lighter weight system that can deliver lethal effects and highly capable sensors on a platform with restricted weight requirements. “This is a pivotal example of how Commonwealth investment in innovative proposals can develop future Defence capability, create jobs and boost our defence industry in Australia. “I congratulate EOS on launching this next generation product and welcome their continued commitment to Australian industry”, Minister Pyne said.

Formed in 1983, EOS operates in the aerospace and defence markets, incorporating advanced electro optic applications based on EOS core technologies in software, lasers, electronics, gimbals, telescopes and beam directors, and precision mechanisms. A proven provider, EOS has supplied remote weapon stations for Army’s in-service Bushmaster vehicles.

The construction of the Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles under LAND 400 Phase 2 will generate approximately 1,450 jobs across Australia.