Australian-owned company Thomas Global Systems has been selected as the Prime System Integrator for the Australian Army’s M1A2 Abrams Immersive Tactical Trainer (ITT), supporting the acquisition of 75 M1A2 Abrams System Enhancement Program Version 3 (SEPv3) Main Battle Tanks (MBT).
The contract will see Thomas Global establish a new advanced manufacturing facility in Newington, NSW, to deliver 16 Immersive Tactical Trainers.
Thomas Global Systems has also signed a separate comprehensive Support Contract to offer ongoing sustainment and support services for the delivered systems, increasing the overall program value to almost $50 million.
Thomas Global’s Managing Director of Defence Australia, Andrew Hutchinson said once complete, the 12 containerised ITTs will be deployed to defence bases throughout Australia, along with four classrooms to be permanently established at the Armoured Vehicle Simulation Site located at Puckapunyal, Victoria.
“This investment leverages Thomas Global Systems’ existing technical capabilities, and will also create or support 65 highly skilled design and engineering jobs throughout the supply chain. The contract also supports establishment of a new advanced manufacturing facility in Newington,” he continued.
“This five-year contract with the Australian Government presents a significant opportunity for Thomas Global Systems to access export markets in the global Abrams supply chain, in support of the US and our other allies and partners.
“We look forward to continuing to develop our existing portfolio of Australian defence training and simulation work in collaboration with global partners like Thales, Rheinmetall, Safran and Systematiq.”
