Axalta Coating Systems coats latest generation of trucks for Australian Army

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has received its first medium and heavy-duty trucks in Brisbane, with coatings supplied by Axalta Coating Systems, a leading global supplier of liquid and powder coatings, under the Land 121 Phase 3B Defence programme.

The delivery of the first 12 trucks and 70 trailers are a landmark achievement for Axalta, as they are considered the world’s most modern army vehicles designed to revolutionise the ADF’s logistical capabilities.

Axalta, working with Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Australia (RMMVA), provides the entire supply chain for its paint products – production, supply, warehousing and distribution, both locally and internationally. To optimise application techniques and ensure quality control, Axalta also provides technical support and training for paint application.

"I am extremely proud of Axalta’s achievements as part of the Land 121 programme,” noted Michael Cash, President of Industrial Coatings.

"With painted components originating from up to a dozen global locations, Axalta’s ability to assess site capabilities, design customised training, implement strict quality controls and establish efficient supply chains for its coating products, has ensured these cutting-edge military vehicles are delivered just as the Australian Defence Force had envisioned. Axalta has truly demonstrated our customer-focused capabilities through this project.”

To create the Army’s camouflage pattern on the vehicles, Axalta produces the entire suite of paints, including hardeners, thinners, primers and the colours required for the pattern. Complying with the Australian Paint Approval Scheme (APAS), all coating products are produced in Australia, then exported for application where the equipment is being manufactured. For such a highly specialised project, Axalta also developed customised product solutions, including special application techniques designed to improve cycle times and coating productivity.

"We are extremely happy that this successful delivery also happens at a time when Axalta is celebrating its 150 years of innovation, leadership and growth in the coatings industry. It is strong proof of Axalta’s expertise and capability to serve our customers,” added Cash.

The Land 121 programme aims to replace the current fleet of Australian Defence Force vehicles, modules and trailers. RMMVA signed the Land 121 Phase 3B contract in 2013 to supply the Commonwealth of Australia with more than 2500 medium and heavy military logistical trucks, all of which must be pre-treated and painted with Axalta’s APAS certified paint.