OREANDA-NEWS. The Hawkei is set to become the latest addition to the Australian Defence Force fleet following the signing of a AUD 1.3 billion (about EUR 820 million) contract with the Commonwealth.

Soldiers on operations will benefit from increased protection and mobility in a powerful 4x4 vehicle, which can be adapted for different missions.

Thales’s Hawkei follows the life-saving success of the larger Bushmaster vehicle, which has protected Australian and other troops in some of the most challenging combat environments on earth.

Patrice Caine, Chairman & CEO of Thales said: “This is a great day for the Australian Defence Force and for Australian industry. Hawkei is a highly capable vehicle that will serve Australia for many years to come, and we are delighted that the Australian Department of Defence has recognised the importance of this vehicle by reaching this milestone.

As we move into the manufacturing phase, we will now be able to consolidate the work already begun across the Thales group worldwide to ensure the export success of this impressive vehicle.”

The contract involves the delivery of 1,100 vehicles and over 1,000 trailers. The three and a half year production phase is scheduled to begin from mid-2017, with first deliveries expected towards the end of that year.