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Astute PTY: Leading the Charge in Defence Supply Chain Innovation

Written by Sandra Simpson | Aug 21, 2024 6:32:06 AM

Astute Pty, a Melbourne-based company, has forged a leading reputation as a global component distributor and defence supplier. Astute is a specialist in counterfeit and supply chain risk mitigation but also excels at delivering its efficient and highly-specialised engineering capability to provide customers with customised solutions. Recently Astute Pty has supplied mobile uninterruptible power supply systems to Saab-operated Deployable Health Capability Support Centre (DHCSC) in Ipswich, Queensland.

This project involved delivering critical power systems for multiple deployable hospitals under project JP2060. It consisted of 122 power distribution units housed in 88 transit cases, utilising SynQor power conversion solutions and fulfilling various power requirements. "It’s been four years in the making, and we are thrilled to see our four different customisable power systems in action, successfully supporting all the daily operations of the deployable hospitals," said Astute Australia General Manager, Nick Molloy. "If operating off-grid, our power systems will supply enough conditioned power for extended periods for this medical application.”

"Astute Pty's Military Field-Grade Power System line includes compact, ultra-light, high-power products designed for harsh environments, such as Power Conditioners, Inverters, AC Changers, and Uninterruptible Power Supplies. "It’s a big achievement for Astute Pty and a testament to our strategy promoting partnerships with the right defence suppliers and partners in the Australian market," Molloy added.

Mark Shanley, the Astute’s Global Sales and Marketing Director, emphasises the company's reach: "We're an Australian company, but we have a much bigger global presence. Because of that, we were able to provide a solution to challenges, such as the customisation and project-specific development of the Deployable Power Solution for the Australian Government and Saab. We worked closely with them, gave them an extended reach of engineering supply chain expertise, and delivered a big tick of success."

Astute Pty's recent focus is on drone technology, engaging closely with drone and missile manufacturers in the UK and the US. "There are some smart and exciting solutions that we're bringing into that domain," Shanley notes. The evolving landscape of drone technology, particularly influenced by the conflict in Ukraine, has seen a surge in the production of one-time flyer drones.

"Apparently, by the end of this year, a million drones would have been flown in Ukraine," Shanley observes. Astute Pty is at the forefront of this technological shift, working with franchise partners like SynQor, and Swissbit Technology to work on the development of components such as encrypted SSD drives and voltage converters that enhance drone security and functionality.

Astute Pty, the Micro-Prime and Mark Shanley’s keynote at Land Forces 2024

At this year’s Land Forces, Astute Pty is exhibiting as part of the Micro-Prime group, promoting collaboration and partnership. The Micro-Prime initiative, introduced by Citadel Secure, empowers Australian SMEs to play important roles in long-term nation-building projects, enhancing sovereign capability and fostering local economic growth.

Astute Pty is also poised to play a significant part in upcoming projects related to guided weapons and the AUKUS partnership. These projects are critical for Australia's defence strategy, requiring extensive infrastructure and technological expertise. "Our involvement in AUKUS and guided weapons projects showcases our ability to deliver advanced solutions and support Australia's defence capabilities," Shanley explains.

The company’s commitment to innovation and collaboration is evident through Astute Pty’s approach to solving complex supply chain issues and delivering advanced technological solutions.

"Come and talk to us about supply chain topics, engineering and also drone technologies, at this year’s expo it is us bringing the latest and best technology to you," invites Shanley.

Along with Astute Pty’s participation with the Micro-Prime, Mark Shanley will be presenting a keynote presentation at the Land Forces Hub. This exclusive platform allows a select few from industry, academia, and government to present their insights and solutions to pressing questions facing the land defence community.

Marks keynote titled "Navigating the Risks: Counterfeit Electronics Components and Their Impact in Supply Chain," and will delve into the critical issue of counterfeit components—a growing threat to the integrity and security of defence systems. With his extensive experience and unique perspective, Mark will explore the prevalence of these components, the dangers they pose, and effective strategies for safeguarding supply chains.

This is an opportunity not to be missed and will be hosted at 12:10pm on Thursday 12th September in the Land Forces Hub (Stand J001). For more information visit the Land Forces Hub on the official Land Forces 2024 website.

Visit Astute Pty at the Micro-Prime Stand C045 at Land Forces 2024 to explore their innovative solutions and discuss how they can support your defence technology needs.