Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has entered into a joint venture with Australia’s Bis to launch Auto-mate, a new company that will provide autonomous systems to the mining industry.
The partnership will combine Bis’ operational and logistics capabilities with IAI’s autonomous technologies. IAI’s technologies have been used in heavy off-road vehicles in remote and harsh environments, making it a good fit for mining operations.
Auto-mate will offer solutions tailored to each mining operation’s requirements. Auto-mate’s system can connect any asset to the fleet management system, regardless of the level of automation, type, brand, or age of the asset.
The system will enhance safety and productivity in the mining industry, and provide users with detailed data to optimise their operations.
‘The interoperable and scalable system is the perfect union of cutting-edge technology and practical applications,’ says Yoav Turgeman, IAI VP and CEO of ELTA. ‘Auto-mate will deliver a flexible approach to automation, delivering usability for multiple levels of automation across all haulage assets and ancillary equipment, with one central command centre.’
‘The team was excited to join forces with another leader in innovation to bring this offering to the Australian and global market,’ says Brad Rogers, CEO, Bis. ‘We are thrilled to be working alongside IAI on this industry-first for mining automation.’
Austrade played a pivotal role in bringing IAI and Bis’ JV to fruition. Austrade provided market and customer research and analysis, connected IAI with relevant industry and government officials within Australia and targeted relevant companies for the JV.
Austrade has worked with IAI since 2013 to pursue a partner in Australia for autonomous/robotic mining and introduce potential partners and relevant institutions. Over the last two to three years, Austrade has assisted IAI to expand its presence in Australia and advised on ways and opportunities in which it can expand its role within Australia’s defence ecosystem.
