BAE Systems Australia is supporting local SMEs to adopt new technologies that will drive future shipbuilding.
Adelaide-based SMEs MyModular, Century Engineering, MG Engineering, Novafast International, Axiom and Hobart-based CBG Systems – each a trusted supplier on the Hunter Class Frigate Program – have signed up to the ‘Connected Supplier’ project to improve digital literacy and explore opportunities to use technology for better business performance.
The SMEs have taken part in workshops, site visits, attended defence and cyber security briefings and been provided with one-on-one support from subject-matter experts in the ongoing automation of traditional manufacturing and industrial practices using smart technology, also known as Industry 4.0.
The project has been led by research agency DMTC as part of the Factory of the Future Manufacturing Growth Accelerator, an initiative established through a $4 million South Australian Government grant. The participating companies have already used data from the National Electricity Market to better understand ways to reduce emissions and ensure an energy efficient approach to running their business.
“The government-supported Manufacturing Growth Accelerator introduces participating manufacturers to technologies and ways of working that might otherwise be inaccessible or unaffordable," said Dr Susan Close the South Australian Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science.
"Each of these projects is set to make our state’s manufacturing sector smarter, greener, and more productive."