The Javelin missile system has been selected as the Australian Army's anti-armour and bunker-busting weapon of choice, Defence Minister Robert Hill announced today.
"Australian Special Forces soldiers in Afghanistan were equipped with a number of Javelin weapons prior to their deployment as a defence against armoured threats," Senator Hill said.
"The shoulder-fired direct fire guided weapon, manufactured by Raytheon/Lockheed Martin, was not fired in anger by Australian soldiers. However, it is a highly valuable additional capability for our Special Forces."
The Javelin is a state-of-the-art weapon that provides a 'fire and forget' capability which locks on before launch with an automatic -guidance system. This reduces the risk of a soldier being exposed to enemy fire while trying to guide a weapon to its target.
The weapon systems will equip infantry, cavalry and special forces units with a modern, highly capable weapon.
"The Javelin gives our soldiers the ability to attack armoured vehicles and bunkers at ranges out to over 2000 metres," Senator Hill said.
"The purchase, at a total cost of around $180 million, will provide enough missile launchers, ammunition, logistics support, simulators and training ammunition to equip high readiness battalions and other units. The weapons are expected to enter service over the period 2005 to 2007."
Senator Hill said the purchase of the Javelin continued the Government's 2000 Defence White Paper commitments.
-ends- Javelin Selected as New Shoulder Fired Weapon for Australian Army
