Mitsubishi Electric Australia, a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, has signed an agreement for a joint development project with the Australian Department of Defence.
This is a joint development project to develop and transition a new capability, based on laser technology developed by Australia’s Defence Science and Technology Group.
The project will utilise Mitsubishi Electric Corporation’s electronic and optical system technology (laser technology) to enhance surveillance and survivability of Australian Defence Force platforms.
This is the first case in which a Japanese company has signed an agreement with a foreign government for joint development in the defence field, and is a new step for Japan, which has been promoting the equipment transfer through public-private collaboration.
“This collaboration with Mitsubishi Electric Australia will enable cutting-edge laser technology developed by Australian defence scientists to be transformed into new technologies that protect our Australian Defence Force personnel. This will not only lift Australia’s capability, but deepen our science and technology collaboration with Japan," said Chief Defence Scientist, Professor Tanya Monro.
“Maintaining a technological edge relies on Australia committing to working with partners on defence science and technology. We look forward to collaborating with Mitsubishi Electric Australia to deliver new capability, using technology developed by Defence, which enhances surveillance and survivability of defence platforms.”
During the Japan-Australia Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Tokyo, Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles and Japanese Minister of Defense, Kihara Minoru celebrated the first of its kind collaboration.