The Australian Government is backing an initiative that showcases aerial drones developed by Australian companies, aiming to boost innovation and augment the capabilities of the Australian Defence Force (ADF). In this initiative, 11 companies will provide prototypes and production plans of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) for a demonstration scheduled in April, under the Sovereign UAS Challenge managed by the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA).
These drones, valued at a total of $1,210,000, are designed to offer versatile, cost-effective situational awareness in various applications such as training and surveying. This effort reflects the government’s commitment to fostering a sovereign drone industry, enhancing the ADF’s operational effectiveness, and supporting the local defence industry, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.