Thales Australia has released concept plans for the future of Lithgow Arms – a precinct to develop and manufacture the next generation soldier weapons systems of the future Australian Defence Force.
Thales said the precinct will integrate trade and research institutions, SME partners, and key industrial partners to secure the next generation of manufacturing and engineering skills in Lithgow and across the Central West.
According to the company, soldier weapons systems of the future that will be produced at the precinct will integrate both traditional manufacturing and digital technologies, including 3D printing, advanced optical and targeting equipment and digitally networked communications.
Thales Australia CEO Chris Jenkins said the company is seeking to build on Lithgow Arms’ distinguished heritage.
“Since 1912, the Lithgow Small Arms Factory (now known as Lithgow Arms) has proudly supported Australia’s soldiers on battlefields around the world,” Mr Jenkins said.
“Thales Australia is seeking to build on this distinguished heritage to create the Sovereign Industrial Capability Precinct in Lithgow. This precinct will position Lithgow at the forefront of more than $2 billion of domestic and significant export opportunities in the next ten years.
“Lithgow has been the home of small arms manufacturing for over a century, and Thales is seeking strong support from the Government to secure its future both for the next generation soldier weapons systems and the skilled workforce behind the defence force.”
