Buckle-up! the Hawkei is coming to the Auto One V8 Utes series

09 September 2013

Built-tough and ready to deliver outstanding protection to Aussie troops, Thales's Australian-made Hawkei tactical military vehicle is revving up to join the Auto One V8 Ute Racing Series.

Named after one of Australia's (and the world's) toughest and most deadly snakes, the Hawkei has the strength, speed and agility for operations in the harshest conditions.

Built strong, built to save lives, the Hawkei comes from the same company that makes the iconic Australian Bushmaster. Built in Bendigo in regional Victoria, the Bushmaster has been protecting Australian diggers in Afghanistan and Iraq, and has saved hundreds of lives.

Chris Jenkins, Thales Australia CEO, said: Where better to show-off what Australia can do than at the Auto One V8 Ute series? The Hawkei is Aussie know-how at its best.

Focused on winning and being the best, protecting your mates, that's Australia. That's what the Hawkei is all about, and we think this Aussie beast is in good company with the iconic Aussie ute.

Thales is proud to be supporting the V8 Utes. It's fast and competitive racing at its best, all with that extra steel only ute racing can deliver.

Fans will get a feel for the Hawkei at the upcoming Sandown, Bathurst Gold Coast and Sydney races.

Thales has delivered six Hawkei vehicles to the Department of Defence, which are currently undergoing testing under the LAND 121 Phase 4 project that seeks to provide up to 1,300 protected light vehicles. Subject to successful testing, final approval of the project is expected around 2015.

About Thales

Thales is a global technology leader in the Aerospace, Transportation and Defence & Security markets. In 2012, the company generated revenues of 14.2 billion (equivalent of AUD 17.6 billion) with 65,000 employees in 56 countries. With its 25,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design, develop and deploy equipment, systems and services that meet the most complex security requirements. Thales has an exceptional international footprint, with operations around the world working with customers and local partners. www.thalesgroup.com

Thales Australia is a trusted partner of the Australian Defence Force and is also present in commercial sectors ranging from air traffic management to security systems and services. Employing around 3,200 people in over 35 sites across the country, Thales Australia recorded revenues of AUD 1 billion in 2012.

Press contact

Julian Elliott

Thales Australia

+61 (0)2 8037 6031

+61 (0)401 134 415

julian.elliott@thalesgroup.com.au

LINK:	http://www.thalesgroup.com/Press_Releases/Countries/Australia/2013/201...
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