Kongsberg Defence Australia (KONGSBERG) has signed a contract with Adelaide construction company, Tandem Building Group to build their new purpose-built facility at Technology Park.

It follows KONGSBERG’s announcement in October 2022 that it would establish a new home at the Mawson Lakes site to support hardware manufacturing and assembly, along with maintenance and software development to assist in the delivery of defence acquisition programs.

General Manager of Kongsberg Defence Australia John Fry said the construction of the company’s new 2500 sqm dedicated facility marks an important milestone for KONGSBERG in Australia.

“After the completion of an Early Contractor Involvement phase, we are delighted to engage Adelaide-based Tandem Building Group, a defence sector delivery leader in South Australia,” he said.

“This is an exciting period of growth for us and this AUD $15m investment demonstrates our commitment to supporting local production and sustainment activities on current and planned Defence programs.”

The project will see between 70-130 South Australians on site at any one stage, with approximately 30 South
Australian companies engaged throughout the project duration.

Tandem Building Group Operations Manager (SA) Nick Riddell said the project would provide an exciting opportunity for the business to grow.

“Tandem Building Group is extremely grateful for the opportunity to be involved in this exciting and meaningful project, and we are looking forward to collaborating with KONGSBERG to deliver the first of their purpose-built defence facilities in the country,” he said.

“Knowing corporations such as KONGSBERG are investing in our State continues to strengthen South Australia’s claim as being Australia’s ‘defence state’, ultimately increasing our State’s opportunity to receive future investments.”

Together with Tandem Building Group, Kongsberg Defence Australia is also partnering with local South Australian companies, Section Six Architects and Norman Disney & Young.

The facility is expected to be fully occupied and operational by early 2024.