DPR 133/97 Friday October 3 , 1997
ARMY CANCEL PROJECT MULGARA TO SEEK MORE CAPABLE VEHICLES
The Department of Defence today announced that the proposed procurement of an Army light surveillance and reconnaissance vehicle, known as Project MULGARA, would not proceed, because of the need to strengthen combat capability by seeking more capable armoured vehicles.
Project MULGARA, which began in 1994, sought to provide Reserve armoured units with a vehicle that was simple to operate whilst still allowing the units to carry out operations in short warning conflicts.
The industry responses to an Invitation to Register Interest for the project made it clear that the proposed vehicle would not meet future Land Force needs, as it lacked flexibility and capacity to do a range of tasks.
Companies were advised that the initial Invitation to Register Interest would not proceed and options for a vehicle that could better meet the restructured Army's needs would be examined.
The decision to now cancel the project reflects the Government's intention to strengthen the combat capability of the Australian Defence Force by seeking more capable armoured vehicles. It also demonstrates the Government's commitment to ensure that Defence funds achieve value for money.
The proposed purchase of more capable armoured vehicles will still provide similar opportunities for Australian industry to be involved in future projects.
Further information:
Major C Proudfoot (Project Office, Dept of Defence) (02) 6265 2593
Colonel G I Barnett (Land Combat Devt. Dept of Defence) (02) 6265 3985