Australia announces $5.7m contract with EOS to develop R400 Slinger C-UAS

The R400 Slinger is an advanced, all-in-one remote weapon system capable of countering small and medium-sized drones. Integrating an advanced laser-guided rocket and a machinegun, it provides a highly effective and flexible response to airborne threats.

Importantly, the R400 will be manufactured and sustained in Australia by an Australian-owned company, supporting local industry and strengthening domestic capability.

This contract builds on the previously announced investments in AIM Defence and SYPAQ Systems, which are developing advanced laser and interceptor drone technologies under Mission Syracuse.

Together, these projects will strengthen the Australian Defence Force’s ability to detect, track and defeat uncrewed systems, helping to protect personnel, platforms and critical infrastructure.

“This investment highlights the strength of Australia’s sovereign defence industry, with EOS Defence Systems delivering an advanced, locally developed capability that will enhance the Australian Defence Force’s ability to counter emerging threats,” Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said.

“By partnering with Australian companies, we are ensuring critical technologies are designed, built and sustained here in Australia, supporting local jobs and strengthening our national security.

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“The Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator and Mission Syracuse are demonstrating how Defence can move at speed – rapidly partnering with industry to bring innovative capabilities into development.

“This agile, mission-driven approach is accelerating the delivery of cutting-edge counter-drone solutions to the Australian Defence Force, ensuring we stay ahead of emerging threats.”

The federal government has allocated up to $22 billion for drone, counter-drone and autonomous system technologies over the decade through the 2026 Integrated Investment Program.

“Mission Syracuse is a strong example of how Defence, through ASCA, can work at speed and with urgency alongside Australian industry to rapidly develop and deliver innovative counter-drone technologies and capabilities that strengthen the ADF and our sovereign industrial base,” said Major General Hugh Meggitt, head of the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator.

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.