Australian Army invests $650 million in uncrewed aerial systems

Twenty-four new uncrewed aerial surveillance systems, manufactured in Brisbane, will be acquired by the Australian Army as part of a $650 million investment announced today.

Defence has selected Boeing’s c associated ground systems and integration services.

Minister for Defence, the Hon Peter Dutton MP said the platform will provide Army with enhanced abilities to gather intelligence, undertake reconnaissance and surveillance missions, and acquire targets for weapons systems across the Australian Defence Force.

“This is just one example of the way the Morrison Government is growing our sovereign capability,” Minister Dutton said.

“This project will enhance the Australian Army’s capabilities by harnessing the innovation and cutting-edge technologies being developed right here in Australia.

“Insitu Pacific Pty Ltd will manufacture the new platform at their facility in Brisbane and integrate components provided by suppliers from around Queensland and across Australia.

“To support the delivery of this capability, the Morrison Government will also invest $56million in facilities at Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera.

“We will also see an upgrade to a number of our Bushmasters, and associated sustainment over the next decade.”

“In total, this project will commit 80 per cent of its $650 million budget to be spent in Australia using Australian companies and technology to manufacture, maintain and operate the platform throughout its life.

The acquisition and initial contract period with Insitu Pacific Limited is worth $307 million alone, and Member for Brisbane, Trevor Evans, said the investment by Defence would see local advanced manufacturing jobs grow in Brisbane and across Queensland.

“This contract is supporting 130 new and existing jobs here in Brisbane and across Australia,” Mr Evans said.

“People may not have always associated Brisbane with defence industry in the past, but projects like this demonstrate the real opportunities advanced manufacturing can offer now and into the future.”

Production has already commenced, with delivery expected in 2023 and 2024.

Source: Defence Media