The Bushmaster is a combat-proven protected vehicle currently in service with nine nations. It has been deployed on operations in the Middle East, Europe, Africa and the Pacific.
Thales said the decision reflects close defence cooperation between the Australian Defence Force, the Netherlands Ministry of Defence and the company. The accelerated effort will involve the Australian Army working with Thales to fast-track production and delivery in response to the growing threats posed by modern warfare.
The vehicles will be supplied in the latest configuration with enhanced systems and features to meet the needs of the Royal Netherlands Army. Thales said the Bushmaster is recognised for protecting soldiers in high-risk environments.
“The Bushmaster is one of Australia’s most trusted defence exports, and this collaboration demonstrates how government and industry can work together to move quickly when our partners need capability. Working closely with the Commonwealth and the Australian Army, Thales is fast-tracking the delivery of combat proven Bushmasters for Dutch forces. This order is testament to the Australian skills and expertise, not only in Bendigo but in the broader Australian pipeline that help to manufacture this world class vehicle,” said Andrew Downes, Vice-President, Land, Thales Australia.
The Australian Government’s Defence Strategic Sales Office has supported the export opportunity. The office works with Australian industry to promote key defence capabilities globally, with the Bushmaster identified as one of Australia’s priority defence exports.
Production and integration work will be carried out in Australia. Thales said the work will support local jobs and reinforce Australia’s role as a trusted provider of advanced protected mobility systems.
The company said the order reflects strengthening cooperation between Australia and European Union member states under the EU-Australia Security and Defence Partnership. The partnership is intended to support deeper coordination and improved interoperability among allies facing contemporary security challenges.
Thales said it looks forward to building on its relationship with the Netherlands. The company also said it will support delivery, integration and sustainment of the latest Bushmaster fleet.
The announcement comes as the Australian Government invests AUD$750 million to develop and deliver 268 additional next-generation Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles for the Australian Army.
