Defence has strengthened its deployable health capability through a $421 million upgrade that enables advanced medical care to be delivered wherever personnel are operating.

A deployable health capability is a rapidly deployable, scalable and fully functioning medical facility that can be tailored to operational requirements, supporting personnel in warfighting, training, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.

The upgrade supports care ranging from primary health services through to hospital-level treatment, intensive care and specialist surgery. The capability incorporates critical supporting infrastructure, including shelters, power distribution and waste management systems, enabling a fully functioning clinical environment to be established in deployed locations.

The upgraded capability includes three fully equipped field hospitals, enhanced specialist surgical services, trauma care, casualty evacuation, and supporting logistics. It enables ADF medical personnel to treat complex injuries and illnesses across the full spectrum of operations in Australia and overseas.

Saab Australia has progressively delivered the capability over the past four years and will continue to provide sustainment services, including maintenance, engineering, warehousing and supply support, from its purpose-built support centre in Bundamba, Queensland.

Quotes attributable to Brigadier Allan Hamley, Director General Land Vehicle Systems, Land Systems Division:

“This capability revolutionises medical support for ADF personnel across a wide spectrum of operations, from warfighting to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and will improve the experience of service for our soldiers and aviators. 

“Whether garrison-based, in training, or deployed, our personnel often undertake demanding physical activity in austere and high-stress environments. The reliable supply of medical care is essential to protecting health, wellbeing and morale, and plays a critical role in supporting an advanced and capable defence force.”

Quotes attributable to Brigadier Toni Bushby, Director General, Health Business and Plans, Joint Health Command:

“A rapidly deployable, fully functioning medical facility tailored to the strategic environment will enhance the ADF’s operational flexibility, enabling it to operate independently or in support of coalition partners.

“This capability is a critical enabler that helps ensure Australian sailors, soldiers and aviators receive the high standard of care they deserve, wherever they are required to operate.

“JP2060 Phase 3 represents the culmination of decades of planning, development and investment to deliver a modern deployable health capability that enhances the ADF’s readiness, resilience and ability to support operations in Australia and overseas.

“At its core, this capability is about our people, ensuring Australian sailors, soldiers and aviators have access to the quality care they deserve when serving their nation.”

Media note

Media can access imagery/vision at https://images.defence.gov.au/S20262466.