Hanwha Aerospace Launches Innovative Armored Vehicle Production Center in Australia
Hanwha Aerospace announced today that it has completed the creation of the Hanwha Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence (H-ACE) in Geelong, Australia. This marks the first international production center established by a Korean defense company.
“This establishment signifies Hanwha’s commitment to Geelong, Victoria, and Australia, showcasing that our organization is focused on future projects in this area, including howitzers, armored vehicles, and multiple technological innovations beyond our existing ventures,” remarked Jae-il Son, CEO and President of Hanwha Aerospace. “H-ACE is a pivotal component of our global defense supply chain, further strengthening the partnership between Australia and Korea. We will continue to collaborate with Australian firms and aim to integrate more of them into our worldwide supply frameworks.”
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, The Hon Richard Marles MP, South Korea’s DAPA Minister Jong-gun Seok, Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, and Head of Land Capability Major General Richard Vagg were present at the formal inauguration of H-ACE, alongside esteemed guests from around the world. This facility is expected to bolster the ties between Australia and South Korea, reinstating advanced vehicle manufacturing in the Geelong region.
H-ACE is set to initiate the production of the AS9 Self-Propelled Howitzer and the AS10 Armoured Ammunition Resupply Vehicle. The aim is to supply 30 and 15 units of each, respectively, to the Australian Army. Additionally, the Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle, which has secured a supply agreement for 129 units, will be manufactured at H-ACE, following the successful delivery of prototypes post-2026.
Hanwha Aerospace is accelerating its entry into the AUKUS markets through the finalization of the Australian manufacturing site. As the demand for defense equipment surges in the Indo-Pacific region amidst geopolitical pressures, efforts are being made to utilize H-ACE as a manufacturing hub not only for Australia but also for key allied countries.
The H-ACE facility, constructed over an expanse of approximately 150,000 square meters, includes a total of 11 structures, featuring the main building, production area, assembly plant, driving test ground, and shooting range. Located just an hour’s drive from Melbourne and merely 10 minutes away from Avalon Airport, the site’s accessibility provides logistical advantages and recruitment opportunities.
