Defence to invest up to $7 billion in C-UAS capabilities
Defence says it will more than double investment in C-UAS capabilities for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with up to $7 billion now allocated under the Integrated Investment Program (IIP) over the next decade. As part of the major boost in investment, it has announced two initial contracts, worth $31.7 million in total, for Australian-made…
Australia signs for first three Mogami-class frigates
Defence has signed contracts with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) for Australia’s first three Japanese general purpose Mogami-class frigates. The ships will be of the upgraded Mogami class design, with the first scheduled to be delivered to the Royal Australian Navy in 2029. The contracts were signed aboard the Japanese Ship (JS) Kumano at Port Melbourne.…
Australian government publishes 2026 National Defence Strategy and Integrated Investment Program
The Australian Government has released the 2026 National Defence Strategy (NDS) and Integrated Investment Program (IIP). Together, these documents set out the Government’s plan to respond to what it says is Australia’s worsening strategic circumstances. It has allocated $425 billion over the decade to deliver accelerated capability for the integrated, focused force to increase the ADF’s self-reliance and…
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…
