The Redback vehicles, designed specifically for Australia, will be delivered alongside the new HIMARS missile systems.
The LAND 400 Phase 3 project and Hanwha’s victory
The contract is part of the “LAND 400 Phase 3” project, one of the largest acquisitions in the history of the Australian Army. The first vehicles are expected to be delivered in 2027, with the last batch due in 2028.
Hanwha‘s victory comes despite a reduction in the number of vehicles ordered, from 450 to 129, due to budget cuts by the Labor government.
The Redback vehicles, designed specifically for Australia, will be delivered alongside the Army’s new HIMARS missile systems and landing craft.
Growing defense cooperation between Australia and South Korea
Defense cooperation between Australia and South Korea dates back to December 2021, when Hanwha was awarded an A$1 billion contract to build 30 self-propelled howitzers and 15 armored ammunition resupply vehicles.
According to statements by South Korea’s Vice Minister of Defense Acquisition Program Management, Major General Cho Hyun-ki, the recent contract win is expected to generate new jobs and revenue in Australia.
Competition with Germany and the choice of Redback
Germany tried to persuade Australia to purchase its combat vehicle, sending 150 soldiers to participate in Australia’s major international exercise, and the German Army Chief of Staff visited Australia.
After extensive evaluations, Australia selected the South Korean Redback for its technical characteristics, the reliability of its supply lines, and existing diplomatic ties with South Korea.
The future of the Redback on the international stage
The Redback, equipped with a 30mm caliber automatic cannon, has aroused interest from other countries. Poland and Romania have expressed their desire to purchase the vehicle to modernize their armed forces.
The Redback was also considered by the US Army for its optionally manned fighting vehicle program, although it was not ultimately selected.
The recent Australian contract marks a milestone in Redback’s success on the international stage, and could lead to more contracts to come.
The South Korean company Hanwha won the contract, valued between A$5 billion and A$7 billion, for the production of infantry fighting vehicles in Australia. The contract is part of the Australian Army’s “LAND 400 Phase 3” project to replace its aging fleet of M113s.
Under Australian Defense Industry Minister Pat Conroy’s plan, the first vehicle is expected to be delivered in 2027, two years ahead of schedule, and the last in 2028.
The Redback vehicles, designed by Hanwha, will be delivered with the Army’s new HIMARS missile systems and landing craft.
Poland and Romania have shown interest in the Redback combat vehicle. The Polish government is considering the Redback to replace its fleet of BMP-1 vehicles, while Romania is also interested in the Redback as part of its military modernization efforts.
Australia chose the South Korean Redback for its features, supply lines and diplomatic ties, despite Germany’s efforts to persuade Australia to buy from them, including sending 150 soldiers to participate in Australia’s major international exercise.
