Australia to deliver armoured combat vehicles to Germany in $1 billion defence deal. Source: Rheinmetall Defence
Prime Minster Anthony Albanese has confirmed a defence deal worth over $1 billion to sell Brisbane-made armoured combat vehicles to Germany ahead of talks at a NATO summit.
Anthony Albanese landed in Berlin on Sunday night to meet with Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Monday.
He agreed that Australia would supply 100 Brisbane-made Boxer heavy weapon carriers to Germany.
“This is one of the biggest defence sales in Australia’s history – and is worth over $1 billion to the Australian economy in the production and supply of these vehicles,” Mr Albanese said.
“The agreement will boost Australia’s sovereign defence industry, secure local jobs and contribute to Australia’s economic growth.
“This deal secures well-paid jobs in Queensland and across the country.”
Albanese’s talks with Chancellor Scholz are set to be regarding manufacturing, clean energy, and security in the Indo-Pacific region as well as the war in Ukraine.
This discussion comes after the 500th day of the Ukraine war, which is expected to be one of the main topics.
The Australian government recently announced a $110 million dollar support package for Ukraine.
According to Education Minister Jason Clare, Australia is one of the largest contributors to Ukraine outside of NATO.
“At the moment we are the biggest non-NATO investor or supporter of the effort in Ukraine, except for Sweden, who is about to become part of NATO,” Clare told Sky News on Sunday.
“I won’t pre-empt what the prime minister says at the meeting, it’s an important meeting.”
The Prime Minister’s visit to Europe will also include a meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins.
Albanese will also meet with the leaders of Japan and South Korea who will also attend the NATO summit.
