BAE Systems Australia has joined the Advanced Fibre Cluster, a coalition of companies that seek to advance the innovation of advanced fibre and composite technologies in Australia.
BAE Systems made the partnership official at a signing ceremony during the Avalon Airshow, making it the first defence prime to enlist in the cluster.
Advanced composites are designed to deliver greater performance aircraft and other technologies.
The materials are created when the fibres of two or more reinforced materials, such as fibreglass, are integrated with a matrix such as epoxies or other polymer materials.
Led by companies located in the Geelong region, the Advanced Fibre Cluster intends to deliver investment opportunities that would further foster the Victorian economy and local industry.
Backed by Deakin University and a world-leading group of domestic manufacturers situated in Waurn Ponds, the Advanced Fibre Cluster was established to enhance knowledge, innovation and collaboration within composites and carbon fibre materials, according to David Buchanan, chief executive officer of the group.
“Many of those members now lead the world in both product, design and capability from Victoria, exporting?product?and research innovation globally. Examples include Carbon Revolution,?Quickstep, Sykes who are all founding members,” Buchanan said.
“We are excited that the addition of BAE Systems Australia to the group will ensure the continuation and focus on domestic capability and the growth of Geelong and Victoria as a national centre of excellence for research and domestic production programs,” he added.
The group’s innovations are expected to complement BAE Systems’ work in the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordinance Enterprise, BAE said in a media release.
“We are excited about all the future possibilities this partnership can deliver, not only for the Defence industry but also for other industries as well,” said Andrew Gresham, managing director for defence delivery at BAE Systems Australia.
“BAE Systems celebrates its 70th anniversary in Australia this year and over the past seven decades, we have supported many cutting-edge technology undertakings. This partnership represents the next chapter in our commitment to that Australian know-how,” Gresham added.
