NIOA and AeroVironment have announced a strategic partnership to support the introduction into service, sustainment and future growth of advanced loitering munitions capabilities across Australia and New Zealand.
The partnership establishes a framework for cooperation across the AeroVironment portfolio, including the combat-proven Switchblade family of precision loitering munitions, and positions NIOA as AeroVironment's local partner for distribution, customer engagement, support and long-term capability development.
Ben James, Executive Vice President of NIOA Australia and New Zealand, said the partnership combined Australian strategic munitions leadership with world-leading technology.
"The Australian GWEO Plan identified the acquisition and introduction into service of Switchblade as a key objective,” he said.
“Combining NIOA’s deep expertise in strategic munitions supply, manufacturing and support with AeroVironment’s global leadership in loitering munitions and autonomous systems technology represents a significant win for both the ADF and in the integration of Australian and US industrial bases."
Justin McFarlin, Vice President International Business Development, AeroVironment, said: "The operational success of loitering munitions is driving demand for these capabilities around the world, including Australia.
“Through our partnership with NIOA, we are combining AeroVironment's combat-proven technologies with a trusted Australian defence industry partner to support customers, strengthen sovereign capability outcomes and establish the foundations for long-term growth across the region.”
The companies will also explore opportunities to expand support and industrial capability in Australia as demand for autonomous systems and loitering munitions continues to grow.