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In an innovative move set to transform the Australian defence industry landscape, Citadel Secure started a collaborative initiative known as Micro-Prime. “This unique partnership model brings together a diverse group of specialist manufacturers and service providers, creating a wholly Australian mechanism for major Land project manufacture, support, and sustainment,” said David Searles, one of Citadel Secure’s Directors and the Founder of this collaborative initiative. The Micro-Prime concept was a great success at Indo-Pacific 2023. For the upcoming Land Forces 2024 exhibition in Melbourne, Citadel Secure has further developed the concept to encompass complete defence program support.
Australian capabilities supporting international projects
Micro-Prime represents a significant shift in how small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can participate in large-scale defence projects. By fostering collaboration among these specialized firms, Citadel Secure is paving the way for enhanced sovereign capability and more efficient project delivery. "Our Micro-Prime partnership model is designed to empower Australian SMEs, allowing them to play a crucial role in nation-building projects that were previously out of reach. Our core members, such as Astute Pty, Elexon Electronics, Birubi Australia and Millennium Couplings, are successful businesses that have already established their names as defence suppliers, supported current ADF programs and also worked together in support of defence projects," explains James O’Hanlon, founder and managing director of Citadel Secure.
"This approach not only strengthens our local defence industry but also ensures that Australia’s critical skills and capabilities also support international projects. The Micro-Prime initiative comes at a critically important time, as the Australian Defence Force undergoes significant modernization efforts and is on the search for strong Australian partners with innovative powers," he added.
Capabilities and Jam Sandwich Biscuits
Visitors to Micro-Prime stand (C045) at Land Forces 2024 will have the opportunity to meet with these innovative Australian companies and learn about their specialized capabilities. The Micro-Prime team invites guests for a cup of coffee and authentic jam sandwich biscuits, which will provide a perfect backdrop for networking and discussions about the future of Australian defence manufacturing. For those unable to attend the exhibition, Citadel Secure is offering personalized visits to the facilities of Micro-Prime partners, demonstrating their commitment to fostering strong, local partnerships.
“As Australia faces an increasingly complex global security environment, initiatives like Micro-Prime are crucial for building a robust, adaptable, and sovereign defence industry”, highlights David Searles. By bringing together the strengths of various SMEs, Citadel Secure is not just creating a new business model – it's forging a path towards a more secure and self-reliant nation. The defence industry landscape is changing, and Citadel Secure's Micro-Prime model is leading the charge.
As we look to the future, it's clear that collaboration, innovation, and local expertise will be the cornerstones of Australia's defence capabilities. With Micro-Prime, Citadel Secure is ensuring that Australian SMEs are at the forefront of this exciting new era.
