Understanding what lies ahead for Defence industry in the Land Domain with the implementation of the 2024 Integrated Investment Plan

The Land Environmental Working Group (LEWG) is a forum for key senior Army and other Defence representatives to outline and discuss current and future land capability priorities and investment plans.

This year was an opportunity for our Managing Director Steven Holloway to attend in person. It was pertinent with Defence’s Integrated Investment Program (IIP) being finalised and released earlier this year, and the uncertainty since the release of the Defence Strategic Review being largely removed.

The forum was conducted over two days, Wednesday 10^th July and Thursday 11^th July, with plenary and deep dive sessions held on the first day at the Hotel Realm. And on the second day a selection of Land Capability programs holding classified briefings at HMAS Harman.

Key speakers for the plenary sessions on the first day included Major General Richard Vagg, Head Land Capability; Major General Jason Blain, Head Land Systems; Air Commodore Nicholas Hogan, Acting Head Force Design; and Rear Admiral Wendy Malcolm, Head Patrol Boats & Specialist Ships. Attendees also heard from the LEWG Industry Co-Chairs Amanda Holt, Sypaq; Kate Louis, Australian Industry Group;  and Dean Michie, Hanwha Defence Australia; representing SMEs, Industry Associations and Primes, respectively.

Throughout all the sessions it was refreshing to hear candid commentary on programs and capability requirements. The format included Q&A in most sessions which allowed for industry feedback and input into Army thinking on various programs.

Some of the key takeaways for industry was a focus by Army in ensuring delivery of capability and if projects slip, their funding will be reallocated. The current IIP has led to further rationalising of Army projects into key programs being managed by the Land Capability Division in Army Headquarters. As well as clear alignment with the National Defence Strategy and Army’s transition to specific role Brigades with a littoral capability.

As always, it was an excellent opportunity to network with industry colleagues and clients to discuss the current market environment and future opportunities. And it was widely commented that the forum was very well organised and professionally run, so well done to those involved in the conduct of LEWG 2024.

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