Local Firm Flies High

South Windsor-based engineering consultants AMCE, along with the company Armor Composite Engineering, have recently developed a cutting-edge, lightweight armour for the C-130 aircraft to protect them from ballistic attacks.

Federal Liberal Candidate for the Seat of Macquarie, Sarah Richards, said she was delighted that a local firm had been awarded a $2.13 million to improve the safety of the C-130.

“This is not just exciting because Aerospace & Mechanical Consulting Engineers (AMCE) have been engaged for their innovation talent, but it means jobs and opportunity for the Hawkesbury,” she said. “I find the idea that innovation born in the Hawkesbury, which will end up protecting Defence Force personnel and strengthening the aircraft, a pretty exciting concept.”

Armor Composite Engineering constructs ballistic and structural armour for marine and land vehicles.

“My father worked at Richmond RAAF Base, and I lived there for years as a child, so I am always delighted at these types of defence sector stories. And the entire Hawkesbury can feel proud after hearing that this new technology created locally, may be sold to other countries.

“When talking with John Eldredge about the engineering feat, I felt his passion for his creation. This funding will be used to build a life-size prototype which will be put to the test,” Richards said.

Mr. Eldredge said AMCE had employed an additional four engineering staff and Armor Composite Engineering has increased its manufacturing staff by two, with a further two staff to be employed this year.

Industry and research organisations can submit innovation proposals through the Defence Innovation Portal at: www.innovationhub.defence.gov.au