Rapid Acquisition of c-UAS Capabilities
In a move to bolster its defense capabilities, Australia has awarded $16.9 million AUD ($11.2 million USD) in initial contracts to 11 companies for counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (c-UAS) technologies. This investment comes less than a year after the country sought tenders for a program aimed at rapidly acquiring a suite of c-UAS solutions.
Minister Conroy Highlights Advanced Technology
„This will see some of the world’s most capable threat detectors and drone-defeating platforms rapidly be introduced into service by the ADF (Australian Defence Force),” said Australian Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy during a drone racing event in Canberra.
Project Land 156: A Comprehensive Defense Strategy
The contracts, issued under Project Land 156, will lead to the introduction of at least 120 technologies following thorough testing. These technologies include systems from five Australian firms and encompass high-energy lasers, radio frequency jamming, and ammunition-based systems designed to neutralize small UAS threats.
Global Trend: Drone and Counter-Drone Spending Spree
This investment aligns with a global surge in drone and counter-drone spending. In the US, a recent memo directed the arming of every Army squad with small, one-way attack drones by the end of fiscal 2026. Australia plans to allocate approximately $10 billion AUD to drone technology over the next decade, according to the Australian DoD.
DroneShield Among the First Suppliers
While the specific list of the 11 companies remains undisclosed, Minister Conroy mentioned that Australia’s DroneShield has supplied its Drone Gun Mk 4 and RF Patrol system, offering lightweight detection and handheld jamming capabilities.
Integrated System for Comprehensive Counter-UAS
Australia’s program seeks a complete system featuring electro-optic, active and passive radars, and acoustic and thermal sensors, all integrated with a Command and Control (C2) system. This system will engage NATO Class 1 and 2 standard air vehicles weighing up to 24 kilograms (53 lbs).
Future Acquisitions and Upgrades
The Department of Defence plans to announce further acquisitions under Land 156 in the coming months, including contracts for command-and-control capabilities and additional advanced counter-drone sensors and effectors.
ASCA’s Role in Developing Future Capabilities
The Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator’s (ASCA) Mission Syracuse is also expediting the development of capabilities to counter medium-sized drones and drone swarms, providing cutting-edge options for Land 156. The procurement is being managed by the Defence Department’s Electronic Warfare and Intelligence Systems Branch Joint Systems Division of its Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group.
