Hanwha Defence Australia (HDA) has awarded Electro Optic Systems (EOS) a contract worth 108 million Australian dollars ($71 million) to supply Remote Weapon Systems (RWS) for the Australian Defence Force’s LAND 400 Phase 3 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) program. The multi-year agreement covers the delivery of spare parts, operator training, and system documentation.
Under the deal, EOS will deliver upgraded R400 Remote Weapon Systems, fully integrated with the AS21 Redback IFV, to meet the Australian Army’s performance and operational needs. Manufacturing will take place at EOS’ Canberra facility, supported by a national supply chain network involving over 100 Australian suppliers, strengthening the domestic defense industrial base.
The R400 is a lightweight 30mm remote weapon station that provides high accuracy and stability, enabling light and medium armored vehicles to match the firepower of larger combat platforms. It can be configured in single or dual-weapon modes and is effective at engagement ranges of up to 2,000 meters (6,562 feet). The system supports multiple weapon types, including machine guns, automatic grenade launchers, anti-tank guided missiles, and can interface with other EOS systems via plug-and-play integration.
The R400 is currently operational with defense forces across Australia, North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, demonstrating its combat reliability and versatility. The contract supports the LAND 400 Phase 3 program, under which Australia ordered 129 AS21 Redback IFVs from Hanwha Defence to replace its aging M113AS4 armored personnel carriers. Vehicle production will occur in Australia, with initial deliveries planned for 2027–2028, and full acceptance anticipated by 2029.
