Leidos Australia to deliver ADF’s counter-drone capability
Leidos Australia has been appointed as the systems integration partner for the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) Project Land 156 counter-small uncrewed aerial systems (CsUAS).
Project Land 156 aims to procure a range of capabilities that will enable the creation of flexible and scalable systems for CsUAS operations in deployed environments.
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The project, which launched six months prior, represents a strategic investment of A$1.3bn ($843.62m) by the Australian government to enhance the ADF ability to counteract drone threats over the coming decade.
Leidos Australia’s initial $45.9m contract includes delivering and advancing the ADF’s counter-drone capability.
It aims to bolster the ADF’s operational readiness and adaptability in response to new drone-related challenges.
Electro Optic Systems (EOS), which develops counter-drone solutions and other technologies, has disclosed its role within the Leidos Australia-led team that was awarded the contract.
The initial engagement with Leidos Australia is anticipated to generate orders for EOS products, including trial batches of the Slinger counter-drone remote weapon system.
Post an evaluation phase and system design efforts, this collaboration could potentially yield additional orders for EOS’s counter-drone technologies.
The Australian Army also plans to conduct a preliminary rapid demonstration of a foundational counter-drone capability in December 2025.
The demonstration will feature several Australian-developed components such as Acacia Systems’ Cortex Command and Control System, a sensor system provided by Department 13, along with other sensor and effector systems.
The project will also encompass services like systems integration and capability assurance, all delivered domestically by Australians.
This initiative follows previous announcements by the Albanese Government regarding Project Land 156 that have facilitated the swift deployment of advanced threat detection and drone-neutralising technologies.
More than 120 units have been introduced thus far, said ADF.
In addition, over 160 Australian jobs are being sustained through this project, with an additional 80 new positions expected to be created.
Australia Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said: “This project is both a benchmark and a blueprint for how we continue to deliver speed to capability.
“The structure of Project Land 156 will ensure Australia stays ahead of the evolution cycle in relation to counter-drone technology, giving the ADF the capabilities it needs.
“Counter-drone technology is critical to keeping our ADF members safe, and that’s why the Government is ensuring our soldiers, sailors and aviators are provided with the best technology to protect them.”
In August 2024, Australia announced injection of A$6.6m ($4.45m) in three domestic drone manufacturers in an effort to cultivate a sovereign industrial base for a military system that is gaining traction around the world.
