Image: Bushmaster Mulga © Thales
Thales Australia has debuted the Bushmaster 5.6, the latest evolution of its combat-proven protected mobility platform, as per a recent press statement.
Major General Jason Blain, Head of Land Systems at Australia’s Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG), and Julien Assoun, Vice-President of Vehicles and Tactical Systems at Thales, jointly presided over the reveal. The new variant, also designated the Mulga utility variant, features a left-hand drive configuration, signalling its design intent for global export customers.
The Bushmaster 5.6 builds on the platform’s established reputation for protection and mobility by integrating sensors, effectors, and mission systems suited to contemporary warfighting. Additions include offensive capabilities such as Thales laser-guided rockets, expanding the vehicle’s traditional defensive role. Crew usability improvements include new front-door access, upgraded vehicle entry points, digital displays, and advanced vehicle monitoring systems. The vehicle continues production at Thales’ Bendigo facility in Victoria, Australia.
The upgrade responds directly to the proliferation of drone threats and the growing demand for networked battlefield platforms. The Bushmaster 5.6 targets counter-drone operations, sensing, communications, and electronic warfare as primary mission areas.
Assoun commented: “The Bushmaster has built a global reputation for protection, mobility and reliability. This next-generation vehicle demonstrates how the platform continues to evolve in response to changing threats, emerging technologies and customer needs.”
He added: “Already a trusted defender, the Bushmaster 5.6 has been designed to provide greater flexibility for modern missions, particularly in areas like counter-drone operations, sensing, communications and electronic warfare.”
Read more on Thales’ website
