ASCA calls for Persistent and Pervasive ISR
The Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA) Emerging and Disruptive Technologies (EDT) program has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the capability effect of Persistent and Pervasive Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance, or P2ISR. The RFP closes on Saturday 18 May and Defence will be holding a virtual Market Briefing Session for the ASCA EDT P2ISR RFP,…
Navy names autonomous systems unit
The Royal Australian Navy RAN has formally named its Maritime Autonomous Systems Unit (MASU), marking a key step in its transition to a more highly advanced, technology‑enabled future force. The Officer in Charge is CDR Chris Forward. MASU has been created through Project SEA1200 to accelerate the development, integration and operational employment of maritime autonomous…
First Australian-made GMLRS test-fired
The first Australian-assembled Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) missiles have been successfully test-fired at the Woomera Test Range in South Australia. The successful firing expands the long-range strike capability of the Australian Army and demonstrates Defence’s commitment to building the nation’s sovereign defence industry, the department says. This test-firing follows the December 2025 opening…
Australian companies to join UK submarine supply chain
Defence has announced the development and extension of two significant programs to help local industry tap into the submarine supply chains of Australia’s AUKUS partners. This will help secure high-value manufacturing contracts that support Australian jobs, and develop robust and resilient supply chains, says Defence. The Australian Submarine Supplier Qualification program (AUSSQ), established in 2025, has been expanded,…
Defence appoints new CDF and Chiefs of Navy and Army
The Australian Government has appointed Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AO RAN, the current Chief of Navy, as the Chief of the Defence Force (CDF) with effect from July 2026, subject to the Governor General’s consideration and approval. Defence has appointed Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley AM CSC RAN, on promotion, as Hammond’s successor as Chief of…
US Army demonstrates AH-64E Apache ‘launched effects’ using Anduril Altius 700
The US Army has demonstrated an AH-64E Apache attack helicopter employing a ‘launched effect’ for the first time, executing a launch of Anduril Industries’ Altius 700 Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) at Yuma Proving Ground during Concept Focused Warfighting Experiment 26 (CFWE26). By combining the Apache’s versatility and mobile strike maneuverability with Altius-700’s category-leading range, the…
