The Government's Defence Innovation Hub has made its first three investments since the launch of the program in December 2016, allocating 887,000 in funding to three SMEs.
A $618,000 contract signed with Newcastle-based firm Armor Composite Engineering will provide a low profile body armour system, which could be used by personnel in close protection roles.
“This innovation will seek to mature technology which will improve protection for ADF members and ensure we keep up with new and emerging threats,” Defence Industry Minister Christopher Pyne said.
Melbourne-based SYPAQ Systems has signed a $172,000 contract with Defence to provide a small, lightweight next generation power generator tailored to land environments which can be used by individual soldiers and vehicle-based forces.
SYPAQ Sensors and Surveillance general manager Ross Osborne said the company is proud to be partnering with a Tasmanian SME – Currawong Engineering – to develop the generator.
“This small, lightweight power generator has the potential to be a game-changer for deployable Army capability,” he added.
A $97,000 contract between Defence and Sydney-based Berkeley Information Technology will provide a software solution to support the protection of documents used on Defence information and communication systems
Industry and research organisations can continue to submit proposals through the Defence Innovation Portal at www.business.gov.au/cdic.