30 August 2024
Defence industry and the Army continue to strengthen partnerships that enhance land capability after coming together at the Land Environment Working Group (LEWG).
Held at Hotel Realm in Canberra from July 10-11, more than 500 representatives from Australian Defence Industry learned about Army’s focus on littoral manoeuvre in response to the Defence Strategic Review and National Defence Strategy.
They also learned about Army’s contribution to the integrated force and discussed the opportunities for industry to achieve outcomes specified for Army in the Integrated Investment Program.
Head Land Capability Major General Richard Vagg said the working group was Army’s key annual engagement with Defence industry.
“This forum provides a platform for Defence to discuss current land capability priorities and investment plans in a transparent way,” Major General Vagg said.
“We asked industry to consider how land power contributes to the integrated force in support of a strategy of denial.
“We deliberately encouraged two-way engagement, enabling industry to provide early input and feedback on our planning.”
The first day of the working group included briefs from senior Defence and industry leaders, deep-dive sessions into programs within the Land Capability Division, and a panel discussion. The second day comprised a series of classified briefing sessions, hosted by Land Capability Division programs.
Industry co-chairs Dean Michie, of Hanwah Defense Australia; Amanda Holt, CEO of Sypaq representing small to medium enterprises; and Industry Association Adviser Kate Louis, of Australian Industry Group, provided valuable insights.
“It was invaluable to have representatives from Defence industry alongside to help us shape the theme and content of the event,” Major General Vagg said.
“The ADF must work closely alongside our partners in Defence industry to develop the capabilities we need.
“We remain committed to providing Army the capability it needs to be a world-class fighting force, and my first priority is ensuring our soldiers have the capabilities they need to fight.
“I am confident we are on track, and the LEWG is an invaluable forum to ensure we’re all working towards that priority.”
The next key Defence industry event is the Chief of Army Symposium, to be held in conjunction with the Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from September 11-13.
