Thales Australia and U.S.-based General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems this week said they have signed a long-term strategic teaming agreement to cooperate in the Australian ordnance market.
The agreement formalizes many years of close cooperation between Thales and General Dynamics, cements Thales’s ability to deliver domestic munitions products to the Australian Department of Defence, and enables a refreshed approach to the munitions business in Australia, including the potential for greater exports.
Under the 10-year agreement, General Dynamics will deliver significant technology transfer to Thales in Australia, while Thales will leverage its U.S. partner’s expertise to focus on delivering maximum value to Australian Defence through its existing munitions contracts.
Chris Jenkins, Thales Australia’s CEO, said: “This teaming agreement reinforces both our commitment to modernizing the products on offer in Australia, and our dedication to delivering savings and greater value for money to the customer under Australia’s Strategic Reform Program, while bringing new benefits to the Australian Defence Force.”
Michael Wilson, President of General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, said: “Thales and General Dynamics already have a strong working history. This agreement will see increasingly close cooperation between the companies, and is a significant extension to our current arrangements for the Australian, European and U.S. markets.”