The extra-large vehicle is manufactured in Bendigo and Newcastle, using the Bushmaster production line and 3ME’s power, hybrid drive and control systems. It is designed for off-road operations, with remote and autonomous control and capacity to transport a 20-foot container.
“BladeHAUL is a clear example of Australian innovation delivering Australian capability,” said Jeff Connolly, CEO of Thales Australia and New Zealand. “By leveraging the trusted Bushmaster platform and integrating advanced autonomous and power systems developed locally, together we are delivering a highly capable uncrewed ground vehicle to meet the diverse and evolving needs of our Defence Force.”
Alongside logistics transport, BladeHAUL is designed to supply power remotely to field hospitals, communications systems and other equipment, or operate as a standalone generator. Its containerised payload options also include deployable command posts and field support equipment.
The platform can mount, operate and autonomously transport sensors and effectors for reconnaissance and surveillance. Thales and 3ME also identify counter-drone operations and maritime strike among its intended missions.
“Working with Thales Australia brings together the best of Australian innovation, combining 3ME Technology’s systems engineering and platform development capabilities with the Bushmaster’s proven performance and established manufacturing base,” said Justin Bain, CEO of 3ME Technology. “Together we are delivering an entirely new XL-UGV at a time when demand for contested logistics and remote power solutions for littoral environments is present and growing.”
“BladeHAUL is an important milestone for 3ME Technology because it brings together our core capabilities across BladeVOLT®, BladeDRIVE® and BladeNET® into one platform,” Bain said. “Together we can deliver sovereign power, traction and control systems that turn proven mobility platforms into adaptable, mission-ready autonomous capability.”
The vehicle combines Australian-developed autonomy, hybrid propulsion, load-carrying capacity and remote power delivery, with autonomous functions intended to support human-machine teaming. It draws on the Bushmaster protected mobility vehicle, which is used by nine countries, including Australia and Ukraine.
Thales employs around 4,500 people across 35 sites in Australia and supports more than 2,000 jobs through its Australian supply chain. Australian-owned 3ME specialises in lithium-ion batteries and electric drive systems, with domestic capabilities covering design, integration, testing, manufacturing, validation and certification.
