Formal opening of the new NIOA facility at Brisbane airport

The new $25 million NIOA facility at Brisbane Airport was recently officially opened by Major General Jeff Sengelman, DSC, AM, CSC, Head of Modernisation and Strategic Planning – Army (and soon to take over the role of Special Operations Commander Australia).

The event was attended by senior members of the Australian Defence Force, NZ Defence Force, Australian Law Enforcement officers, Qld Government, the US Embassy and senior representatives from many preeminent companies represented by NIOA, including Alliant Techsystems (ATK), Rheinmetall Defence, Barrett Firearms, Leupold & Stevens, Colt’s Manufacturing LLC, General Dynamics – Ordnance and Tactical Systems, Glock, SAAB Barracuda and Colt Canada.

MajGen Sengelman said “Standing behind the success of every soldier on operations is a spreading arc of people who contribute to their success.

It is nice to know that in our response to the various threats our forces face around the world, we have an industry that is standing beside us and is responsive to our requirements.”

The new high security NIOA facility will house the national OEM support centre for many international companies and products including:

ATK Gun Systems
M242 cannons used by Army on the Australian Light Armoured Vehicle (ASLAV), and by Navy on the Armidale Class Patrol Boats, the new LHD, and the AWD.

ATK Munitions
Small, medium and large calibre munitions.

Colt's Manufacturing Company LLC
M4 rifles used by Australian Special Forces, Navy Clearance Divers and Abrams tank units and Tiger helicopter crews.

Barrett Firearms
The M107A1 50 calibre sniper rifle.

Leupold Optics
In-country warranty and custom shop.

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems
The MK47 Automatic Grenade Launcher