Defence has awarded a $12.9 million contract to QinetiQ Australia to co-develop and manufacture a high energy defensive laser system prototype capable of deployment in a wide range of operational environments.
QinetiQ, an Australian-based specialist in high-power laser research and technology, will work in collaboration with the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) to establish a high energy laser manufacturing capability in South Australia.
According to a release published by Defence on April 4, the high energy laser manufacturing capability will enable the development and delivery of laser sources suitable for directed energy applications.
Chief Defence Scientist, Professor Tanya Monro, said the collaboration demonstrated how DSTG is facilitating the rapid transition of science and technology into Defence capability.
“DSTG is partnering with industry to build advanced and competitive Australian sovereign capabilities for our Defence Force in critical technology areas,” Professor Monro said.
“The high energy laser manufacturing capability is an example of how we can work with industry to support emerging and disruptive technologies.”