Hanwha Defence Australia has signed a contract with Electro Optic Systems (EOS) to deliver Remote Weapon Systems (RWS) for the Australian Defence Force’s LAND 400 Phase 3 infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) program. The multi-year deal, valued at 108 million Australian dollars (about USD 71 million), covers the supply of spare parts, training, and documentation. Under the partnership, EOS will supply enhanced R400 RWS units that meet the Australian Army’s operational standards and are fully integrated with the AS21 Redback IFV. Manufacturing will be carried out at EOS’s Canberra facility, supported by a nationwide supply network of over 100 Australian companies.
The R400 RWS, a lightweight 30mm system, delivers heavy-platform firepower for lighter vehicles, offering high precision and reliability. It supports both single- and dual-weapon configurations and enables mobile engagements up to 2,000 meters (6,562 feet). Compatible with machine guns, grenade launchers, anti-tank guided missiles, and other EOS systems via plug-and-play integration, the R400 is already in service across Australia, North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
The LAND 400 Phase 3 program, launched to replace the aging M113AS4 armored personnel carriers, will see 129 Redback IFVs produced locally. Valued at AUD 4 billion (USD 2.63 billion), the program saw Hanwha’s Redback beat Rheinmetall’s Lynx KF41, with BAE Systems’ CV90 Mk 4 and GDLS’s Ajax also considered. Production will begin in Australia, with deliveries from 2027 to 2028 and training, spares, and sustainment support continuing through 2029.
