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How is Australia’s defence industry accelerating innovation to keep pace with rapidly evolving threats, from autonomous drones through to directed energy weapons?
In this episode of the Defence Connect Spotlight podcast, host Robert Dougherty is joined by Lee Kormany, executive vice president Electro Optic Systems Defence Systems Australia.
The discussion builds on a recent $5.7 million contract announcement from the federal government that EOS Defence Systems will develop the R400 SLINGER counter-uncrewed aerial systems capability, under the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator’s Mission Syracuse.
The pair explores how EOS has adapted its remote weapon systems to address emerging aerial threats, the importance of rapid capability development and why collaboration between Defence, industry and academia is becoming increasingly critical to the sovereign industrial base.
Kormany also examines how artificial intelligence, directed energy and software-enabled hardware are shaping the next generation of defence capabilities. She highlights the importance of practical innovation that delivers operational outcomes rather than simply demonstrating technological potential.
The podcast conversation includes the following topics:
- How EOS transformed its R400 remote weapon station into an effective counter-drone capability through rapid engineering innovation.
- Why directed energy weapons and high-energy lasers are becoming increasingly important for modern defence operations.
- The need to accelerate capability development and deliver operational systems at the pace of evolving threats.
- The role of collaboration between Defence, industry and academia in developing sovereign Australian capability.
- How Australia's Defence Industry Development Strategy, AUKUS Pillar 2 and workforce initiatives are helping shape future defence innovation.
- The growing role of artificial intelligence, autonomy and software-defined systems in supporting faster and more informed military decision making.
Finally, the conversation examines how sovereign manufacturing, export growth and practical engineering innovation are positioning Australian industry to deliver advanced defence capabilities at home while supporting international partners in an increasingly contested strategic environment.
Enjoy the podcast,
The Defence Connect Spotlight team
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