Minister for Defence Christopher Pyne and Premier of SA Steven Marshall have opened Redarc Electronics’ expanded factory in SA.
The expansion has added an additional 3,000 square metres of manufacturing space and new manufacturing equipment to the facility. It was supported by a $2.5 million Federal Government grant via the Next Generation Manufacturing Investment Program.
The $22 million development will enable REDARC to increase its manufacturing capacity by 250% and significantly increase productivity, with a new surface mount technology line for loading electronic components, an electromagnetic compatibility chamber and a vibration test lab that can simulate 10 years of product life in just two days.
Managing Director Anthony Kittel said the upgraded facility would enable REDARC to expand its current workforce of almost 200 to 300 by 2024, with most of the new positions being filled by engineers, data scientists and algorithm specialists.
“We have been growing strongly in recent years by targeting the North American and European automotive aftermarket with our dual battery chargers and our award-winning Tow-Pro Elite brake controller," Kittel said.
Minister Pyne said the expanded facility, which will be the home of advanced electronics manufacturing in the defence, automotive and mining sectors, is an exciting boost to the SA economy.
“Located in suburban Lonsdale, the upgraded facility will allow Redarc to develop innovative products across a range of industries including defence – and to further expand its operations both domestically and internationally," Minister Pyne said.
Redarc recently won the Defence Teaming Centre ‘Resilient and Adaptive’ award, which recognised the company's commitment to transformation, sustainability and innovation.