Rafael Expands Operations in Australia

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Israelli-based Defense technology company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has been expanding its operations in Australia, opening a local company in Melbourne. The move has been part of Rafael’s plan to expand its marketing efforts in the country ahead of significant arming programs of the Australian army in the ground and naval arenas.

The company,  which will be jointly run by Israeli and Australian teams, will also focus on strengthening cooperation with local companies for the joint manufacturing and marketing of various systems.

A number of Rafael technologies are already being used by the Australian military, including remote controlled weapon systems, naval defense technologies and aerial strike guidance systems, according to Rafael announcement.

The move is part of the company’s global strategy of forging local collaborations with companies in various countries in response to the growing demand in many countries to condat part of the manufacturing by local companies.

Among others, Varley Australia will create a manufacturing facility in Australia, which will provide production and support of Rafael Advanced Defense System’s new, fifth generation Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missile. Varley and Rafael’s facility will become the first to manufacture the Spike LR2 outside of Israel, according to a recent report in defenceconnect.com.au.

Rafael already has more than 100 collaborations worldwide, including a missile manufacturing facility in India. The company has recently signed an agreement with Australia’s Bisalloy Steel Group for the supply of metals for the manufacture of military systems, according to the announcement.