Login
iscover
The federal government’s $1.3 billion program to deliver a cutting-edge armed remotely piloted aircraft system to Australia is one step closer after the announcement of the down-selection of a preferred platform for the AIR 7003 project.
To continue reading the rest of this article, please log in.
Create free account to get unlimited news articles and more!
Defence Connect can confirm that General Atomics' MQ-9B 'Sky Guardian' has been selected by Defence as the preferred platform for the project.
Following this decision, the next phase for AIR 7003 will focus on developing the MQ-9B acquisition proposal, which is scheduled for government consideration in 2021-22.
Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said this project will deliver Australia’s first armed medium-altitude long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft system.
“Cutting-edge technology of this kind, with advanced sensors and systems, would complement advanced aircraft such as the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and ensure that Australian Defence Force maintains state-of-the-art capability,” Minister Reynolds said.
Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price encouraged Australian industry to become involved in this billion-dollar project.
“Local companies that provide a range of innovative sensor, communication, manufacturing and life-cycle support capabilities will have the opportunity to showcase their capabilities throughout this development process,” Minister Price said.
“Australian defence industries are world-class and are extremely well-placed to be involved in projects like this.”
More to come.
