OVERVIEW

Australia has a world class, technologically sophisticated defence industry sector offering innovative capability solutions to meet international requirements.

Australia's military operating environment is amongst the most challenging in the world. The Australian continent, situated in the Asia-Pacific region, borders three of the world's great oceans. The Australian Defence Force operates in a broad range of environments both at home and abroad. Australian military equipment needs to be effective in high heat and humidity, the fluctuating temperatures of the arid deserts, cold Antarctic waters and a vast littoral warm water environment. Australian defence industry responds to these challenges through the development of world-leading technological solutions that meet the Australian Government's stringent procurement requirements.

Australia has a proud history of designing, manufacturing and adapting world class products to meet demanding military requirements. Australian defence industry sectors cover the aerospace, maritime, land, weapons and electronic systems domains. Australian industry is flexible, responsive and customer focused. Australia's business environment promotes competition and innovation to derive best value for money solutions.

Australia has a highly skilled workforce, well-developed manufacturing infrastructure and a sophisticated research and development base. Australian industry operates in a business climate which has a culture of flexibility, innovation and collaboration.

Australian companies supply quality, leading edge products based on technologically advanced capability solutions. Specialist products include command and control systems, multi-sensor data fusion, signal processing, underwater systems, phased array radar, navigation and positioning aids, logistics support systems, and self-monitoring propulsion systems. Specialty skills include complex systems integration and the welding of complex metal alloys. Australia has specific skills in ship vehicle design and manufacture as well as aircraft structures.

Australia's defence industry sector is supported by extensive research and development undertaken by the Australian Government's world leading Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO). Cooperative research and development programs involving both DSTO and industry support the investigation and development of future technologies to meet operational needs, commercial production of new capabilities, improvements to operational performance and safety, and reductions in acquisition and operating costs.

Together with the Australian Government, Australia's defence industry sector unites as 'Team Australia' to showcase Australian defence capability solutions.