AllFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 19 March 2025
Canberra:
AIDN welcomes the $A6.6 billion deal for Canada to buy the proven Australian developed long range Over The Horizon radar system, opening up supply chain opportunities.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the deal on Wednesday following a phone call with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, describing the surveillance and threat tracking system as “world leading technology’’.
Prime Minister Carney said Canada was buying the proven system to provide early warning radar coverage of threats from the north to the country’s vast Arctic region.
The Jindalee Over The Horizon radar or JORN system provides coverage of Australia’s vast north and wide area surveillance of ships and aircraft out to 3000km. It plays a vital role in supporting the Australian Defence Force’s air and maritime operations, border protection, disaster relief and rescue operations.
The system is undergoing a $1.2 billion upgrade by BAE Systems Australia and 110 local companies and SME’s.
AIDN CEO Mike Johnson said on Wednesday that JORN was a prime example of Australian innovation and knowhow and welcomed Canada’s decision to purchase the proven system.
“I look forward to meeting with Canadian representatives at the Avalon Australian International Airshow to discuss potential opportunities for Australian SME’s in the Canadian JORN system supply chain.
“More than 100 local companies are involved in upgrading the system as its next iteration is completed within Australia.
“Canada is a longstanding close security partner of Australia, and as such the JORN partnership can only strengthen ties and the broader Defence industry relationship between our respective countries,’’ Mr Johnson said.
ENDS
MEDIA CONTACT
John Kerin, Manager Government Relations, Australian Industry & Defence Network.
M: 0400 906 545
ABOUT AIDN
Established in 1995, the Australian Industry & Defence Network Limited (AIDN) is the peak industry association representing small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) supporting the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the Department of Defence (DoD).
AIDN proudly represents nearly 1,000 Australian SMEs, collectively employing approximately 61,000 Australians nationwide. In the 2021-22 financial year, these dedicated businesses contributed $10.6 billion to the national economy through sovereign supply chains, advanced manufacturing, research and innovation, skills development, and regional and veteran employment.
In an environment of economic and geopolitical uncertainty, AIDN’s agile membership is well-positioned to support the Australian Government’s urgent capability needs. However, clear guidance on specific priorities is essential to unlock the full potential of Australia’s Defence industry.
Through advocacy, representation, and tailored member services, AIDN champions the interests of Australian SMEs within the Defence and national security sectors. AIDN remains committed to partnering with the Australian Government to build a resilient and self-reliant Defence industrial base, driven by the evolving operational needs of the ADF.
The Australian Industry & Defence Network Incorporated (AIDN) is the peak industry association for small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) who support the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the Department of Defence (DoD).
