Northrop to Equip Australia's Redback IFV with Mk44 Stretch Bushmaster Chain Guns

Northrop Grumman is collaborating with Hanwha Defense Australia to supply Mk44 Stretch Bushmaster Chain Guns (Mk44S) for the Hanwha Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle as part of Australia’s LAND 400 Phase 3 program.

This contract includes the production of 129 chain guns, with initial deliveries slated for 2026. The Mk44S will be compatible with Northrop Grumman’s ammunition suite, including programmable air burst munitions.

Northrop Grumman’s ammunition suite features multifunction airburst munitions, armor-piercing rounds, and proximity-fused ammunition, enabling operators to effectively engage diverse ground and aerial threats.

In December 2023, Hanwha Aerospace Australia secured a $2.4 billion contract with the Australian Department of Defense to deliver 129 Redback IFVs, part of the $7 billion 'LAND 400 Phase 3' military modernization project. The Redback vehicles are expected to start delivery in 2027, with final delivery by late 2028. A series of eight prototype vehicles will also be manufactured in both South Korea and Australia as the program develops.