BAE Systems Australia has announced contract awards to six Australian SMEs as part of the delivery of critical hardware and software sub-assemblies into the global Evolved SeaSparrow Missile (ESSM) program.
BAE Systems and an expanded network of Australian industry partners will deliver sub-assemblies into Block 2 of the ESSM program under a new three-year full rate production contract with a contracted customer in the United States.
The ESSM is a medium-range surface-to-air missile developed to protect warships from advanced anti-ship cruise missiles. BAE Systems is the Australian industry lead in the NATO ESSM Consortium which oversees the program of up to 12 nations including the United States, Australia, Canada and Norway.
Six Australian companies have been contracted to manufacture and supply parts into BAE Systems’ manufacturing facilities at Edinburgh Parks in South Australia: Ronson Gears, Electromold, Calm Aluminium, Rosebank Engineering, Toolcraft Australia and Russell Symes and Co.
BAE Systems says that each local businesses will enable the growth of a 'significant sovereign supply chain', providing opportunities for future design, integration and advanced manufacturing in-country.
“BAE Systems Australia is proud to continue its role in the ESSM program, which ensures the protection of naval fleets around the world," BAE Systems Australia, Managing Director for Defence Delivery, Andrew Gresham said.
“These contracts continue the important work undertaken by our trusted industry partners across Australia which have been delivering guided weapons capability into domestic and export programs for decades.
“An established sovereign design and manufacturing capability and network of industry suppliers means we are ready today to extend delivery into more guided weapons programs under the Commonwealth’s Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise.”
The ESSM is a medium-range surface-to-air missile developed to protect warships from advanced anti-ship cruise missiles. (Supplied)
