QinetiQ, in collaboration with Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG), has showcased a prototype of its scaleable high power laser optical chain at QinetiQ Laboratories (QLabs) in Adelaide. Following on from the Australian first, the two companies are one step closer to understanding pathways for sovereign Directed Energy Defensive Systems. These would be used to counter current and emerging threats posed by uncrewed aircraft, like drones.
“This achievement is an Australian-first. Our aim is to accelerate the development of sovereign High Energy Laser technology so it can be offered to the Australian Defence Force, enhancing their ability to manage current and emerging threats,” Chief Executive Australian Sector Gary Stewart said.
QinetiQ is now working on delivering the next phase of the project, a full-scale prototype of the technology, in the first half of 2025. The strategic partnership has seen the fusion of high-power laser amplifiers, designed by DSTG and built by QinetiQ, with QinetiQ’s beam combination technology, accelerate the development of sovereign capabilities and skills.
“Once matured, Directed Energy Defensive Systems will provide a lower-cost way to counter the threats posed by uncrewed aircraft compared to existing methods currently used within defence," explained Stewart.
Directed energy is one of the six Defence Innovation, Science and Technology (IS&T) strategic priorities.