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Three Australian defence companies have secured $6.2 million in AUKUS contracts to develop advanced communications and navigation technologies for the next generation of uncrewed undersea vehicles.
The contracts, awarded through the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA), will see BAE Systems Australia, L3Harris Integrated Mission Systems Australia and Mission Systems Pty Ltd develop next-generation communications and navigation technologies for autonomous undersea vehicles.
The challenge focused on innovative capabilities to improve undersea communications and command and control, enabling autonomous systems to operate more safely, effectively and collaboratively in contested maritime environments.
The technologies are expected to strengthen interoperability between AUKUS partners and their fleets of uncrewed undersea vehicles as part of the AUKUS Pillar II Maritime Big Play Signature Project.
Head of ASCA Major General Hugh Meggitt said the initiative was helping accelerate the transition of Australian innovation into operational capability.
"Through the 2025 AUKUS Maritime Innovation Challenge, ASCA is collaborating with local industry and AUKUS partners to rapidly develop interoperable systems that translate innovation into real-world maritime capability," he said.
Under the contracts, the companies will develop secure communications between uncrewed undersea vehicles and command and control battle management systems, alongside technologies to improve navigation and positioning for autonomous platforms.
The capabilities are scheduled to be demonstrated by the end of 2026.
Major General Meggitt said the work would strengthen the resilience and effectiveness of allied undersea operations throughout the region.
"This work will strengthen the effectiveness, resilience, and reach of uncrewed undersea operations across the Indo-Pacific," he said.
The AUKUS Maritime Innovation Challenge forms part of the broader AUKUS Innovation Challenge Series, which was launched in 2024 to connect government, industry and innovation sectors across Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States to rapidly deliver priority technologies under AUKUS Pillar II.
ASCA is leading Australia's contribution to the challenge in partnership with the United Kingdom Defence Innovation organisation and the United States Defense Innovation Unit, supporting the rapid development of advanced capabilities that will enhance collective maritime deterrence and undersea warfare.
Stephen Kuper
Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.
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