Italy-based Rheinmetall subsidiary RWM Italia has won an Australian order for “a significant quantity of smart sea mines”, Rheinmetall announced on 31 August 2023.
The contract, which the company said “is worth a figure in the “low three-digit- million euro range with potential growth in the coming years”, will strengthen Australia’s maritime defence capabilities with mines that can be deployed from several platforms.
“RWM Italia was assessed by the Commonwealth of Australia to possess both the technology to meet [Australian Defence Force] strategic objectives and the ability to produce the quantities of mines required,” Rheinmetall stated in a press release. “The types and numbers of sea mines to be provided are classified, but delivery is expected to commence this year.”
The RWM Italia smart mines to be provided to Australia were described by Rheinmetall as rapidly deployable, technologically sophisticated and able to provide “a new level of deterrence to any potential adversary”. The company added that Australian Industry will be engaged in the ongoing sustainment of the capability.
RWM Italia is a leading provider of multi-influence naval mines and mine-clearing systems, with a presence in over 20 countries.
Peter Felstead
