Page 80 - Australian Defence Magazine October 2021

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FROM THE SOURCE RICHARD CHO CONTINUED FROM PAGE 78
OCTOBER 2021 | WWW.AUSTRALIANDEFENCE.COM.AU
pability, in other cases, we’ve established technology transfer agreements that enable Hanwha to localise on an OEMs behalf.
There are a few success stories emerging from this ini- tiative, including plans to undertake manufacture of com- ponentry for the suspension and Composite Rubber Track systems, assembly and test of electronic systems and sub- systems, and production of the protection system. Relation- ships between Australian businesses and overseas OEMs continue to grow to deliver Hanwha’s programs, despite the challenges of COVID19.
ADM: Are you able to shed any further light on the pro- posed manufacturing facility in Geelong?
CHO: Planning for Hanwha’s advanced manufacturing facil- ity in the Greater Geelong area is well advanced. We have conducted feasibility studies on several sites and shortlist- ed those that will best suit our purpose. Negotiations to acquire our most preferred site have been going on for a
Our policy for engagement with Australian industry is simple – listen and provide honest, transparent and con- structive advice. To achieve our long-term objectives in Australia we need to support the industry to grow and develop in specific areas of interest, so this communica- tion is absolutely vital. Examples of this are the proposal debriefs we offer to every company who has bid for work with us – constructive feedback on what was received and where there are opportunities to improve and this has been extremely well received by Australian industry.
As a Prime Systems Integrator, we have willingly taken on responsibility for supporting partners and suppliers who are based overseas with their Australian industry strategies and engagement activities. In some cases, our team has facilitated introductions with a handpicked group of Australian companies around a particular ca-