In a major boost to the state’s defence and space capabilities, South Australian family-owned company REDARC has announced the completion of the first stage of its $50 million defence and space facility.

Construction of REDARC’s Defence and Space Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Hub at Lonsdale is expected to create up to 200 highly skilled jobs by 2032.

REDARC also unveiled final plans for the next stage of the development. Once complete, the two-storey, hi-tech hub will support the company’s planned expansion by boosting its capacity to design, manufacture and deliver mission-critical systems for the Australian Defence Force as well as national and international space and defence programs.

REDARC Managing Director Anthony Kittel said that in addition to expanding capacity for advanced manufacturing for defence and space, the facility had been designed to foster collaboration, innovation and job growth.

“This hub will bring together engineers, technicians and defence experts to create cutting-edge systems, from advanced power solutions to space-ready technologies, that support our partners locally, nationally and internationally for decades to come,” Mr Kittel said.

“The hub will not only accelerate REDARC’s growth but also nurture the next generation of innovators by giving them access to world-class equipment and secure spaces to test technology.

“From mechanical and software engineers to high-level assembly technicians, we’re creating pathways into high-value careers.”

The Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Hub marks a major step forward for the South Australian company. Established in 1979 as an advanced electronics manufacturer, REDARC diversified its portfolio into defence and space in 2019.

Since then, the company has secured a contract with Norwegian defence giant Kongsberg to supply parts for a ground-based surface-to-air missile system for the Australian Army as part of project LAND 19 Phase 7B.

In 2022, REDARC Defence & Space was awarded a $23 million contract for the supply of lighting and related parts for the Royal Australian Navy’s anti-submarine warfare frigates.

The company also collaborated with Raytheon Australia to the develop Australia’s first advanced electronic warfare testing vehicle, launched earlier this year.

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Photo: Proposed east view render of REDARC’s new Lonsdale facility.