Australia and Canada have signed a new technology partnership agreement to support collaboration on Over the Horizon Radar (OTHR) research and development.
“Australia’s relationship with Canada is built on decades of trust and shared strategic interests," a Defence spokesperson said.
Canada’s decision to work with Australia on OTHR capabilities recognises the capabilities of Australia’s Jindalee Operational Radar Network (JORN) technology, and the signing of this agreement represents a significant milestone in the countries' collaboration on OTHR.
“This agreement demonstrates our shared commitment to security through investment in cutting-edge technology, and opens the door to what maybe a potentially significant export opportunity for Australian industry," a Defence spokesperson commented.
The signing of this agreement will allow Australia and Canada to work across government and industry to investigate technical challenges associated with OTHR operation in the arctic; to further develop JORN technology; and to conduct detailed planning for the development, manufacturing and commissioning of a new Canadian OTHR capability.
“The agreement is a testament to the high value systems Australian defence industry is capable of developing, producing and supporting," a Defence spokesperson stated.
The agreement will ensure Australia’s Defence Science and Technology Group collaborate with Defence Research and Development Canada and Canada’s Department of National Defence Digital Services Group, to pursue advancements that benefit both nations – leveraging decades of research, development and operation of Australia’s JORN capability, and drawing on Canada’s expertise operating high-frequency radars in the Arctic.
Designed to detect and track aircraft and maritime vessels, JORN is a vital part of Australia’s air and maritime defence capabilities. Sharing this technology with Canada represents a significant potential opportunity for Australian defence industry.
JORN is now in its fourth decade of service and it has continued to undergo a Phase 6 upgrade by BAE Systems Australia and 110 local companies.