The Australian Army has started training with the new Boxer 8×8 Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles (CRV).
The addition of these new vehicles is expected to enhance the land forces’ combat reconnaissance capabilities.
Overall, the Australian Army will induct 211 Boxer 8×8 CRVs under the government’s LAND 400 Phase 2 programme to replace the older light armoured vehicles.
Training is being conducted with all safety precautions in place due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
Australian Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said: “These vehicles will provide our soldiers with increased protection, lethality, connectivity and mobility for the next 30 years.
“Defence has continued recruiting and training personnel under Covid-safe conditions to meet our force generation requirements to continue defending the nation and its interests.”
Australia’s Department of Defence has accepted five Boxer vehicles to date. One more unit is expected to be delivered soon.
Separately, the Government of Australia has decided to invest an additional A$24m ($17.21m) in defence industry grants programmes.
To be provided over two years, the funding will support small businesses in the sector and will help in building a resilient local defence industry.
Reynolds stated: “Supporting Australia’s military capability remains critical due to the important role this sector plays in the nation’s recovery.
“Developing an industrial base with the capability, posture and resilience to meet our future defence capability needs remains a long-term endeavour.
“The Morrison government remains focused on supporting the defence sector through the difficult period ahead.”
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