For more than 35 years, Varley Defence has been delivering innovative, world-class turnkey solutions to Australia’s Defence sector — from specialised vehicles, trailers and shelters to deployable infrastructure for mission-critical and support systems.
Varley Defence is proud to have supplied the Royal Australian Air Force with the Mobility and Elevation System for the Mobile Air Operations Tower (MAOT), a key capability enabling air traffic controllers to manage the airspace from austere and expeditionary airfields.
Designed in Newcastle and manufactured at Varley’s Tomago facility, the MAOT’s Mobility and Elevation System is a purpose-built ISO 1C trailer fitted with hydraulic stabilising legs and a scissor-lift platform. This system provides the necessary height and stability to ensure clear visibility of runways and flight lines enabling rapid deployment and flexible operations in demanding environments.
During Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, Australia’s largest biennial multinational military training activity, the RAAF’s MAOT played a vital role at RAAF Base Curtin in Western Australia. The MAOT provided essential air traffic control services in support of both Australian and Canadian personnel, underscoring its role in joint and coalition operations.
Victor Ugarte, CEO of Varley Defence, said:
“It’s great to see the MAOT in action at this year’s Exercise Talisman Sabre. The MAOT’s Mobility and Elevation System is an innovative aerospace telecommunications solution designed, built and sustained by our team in Newcastle. It’s rewarding to see Australian engineering supporting the RAAF’s capability while strengthening collaboration with global partners.”
First introduced into ADF service in 2010, the MAOT has consistently proven its value across both exercises and operations. Its success at Talisman Sabre 2025 demonstrates how Australian-designed and manufactured solutions can deliver enduring performance and adaptability to meet the needs of modern Defence operations.
Talisman Image Source: Defence.gov.au
