OTHR technology milestone with Canada

The governments of Australia and Canada have signed a new technology partnership agreement to support collaboration on Over the Horizon Radar (OTHR) research and development.

Canada’s decision to work with Australia on OTHR capabilities recognises Australia’s Jindalee Operational Radar Network (JORN) technology as a world-leading capability, and the signing of this agreement represents a significant milestone in the two countries’ collaboration on OTHR, says Defence. 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.

“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,” according to a Defence spokesperson.

“The agreement is a testament to the high value systems Australian defence industry is capable of developing, producing and supporting.”

The signing of this agreement will enable 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, Defence adds.

The agreement will see Australia’s Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) collaborate with Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) and Canada’s Department of National Defence (DND) Digital Services Group, to pursue advancements that benefit both nations, Defence says. This will leverage decades of research, development and operation of Australia’s JORN capability, and draw on Canada’s expertise operating high-frequency radars in the Arctic.