DroneShield has renewed its support for the Australian Defence Force Drone Racing Team for 2026, extending a partnership that blends sponsorship with skills development and technical collaboration.
The counter-drone technology company said its ongoing involvement with the ADF team builds on a strong relationship showcased at Avalon 2025 and in previous years.
Rather than focusing solely on branding, the collaboration has centred on sharing expertise and fostering innovation in drone operations.
Initiatives have included DroneShield pilots engaging directly with ADF Drone Racing activities to promote skills development and knowledge exchange, reflecting a broader focus on capability building within Australia’s defence ecosystem.
DroneShield chief executive Oleg Vornik said the partnership supports the development of future defence capabilities.
“The ADF Drone Racing Team continues to set the benchmark for advanced drone operations, and we’re proud to support their journey in 2026,” Vornik said. “This collaboration is about more than racing. It’s about building the skills and technologies that will define the next generation of Defence capability.”
The ADF Drone Racing Team has become a high-profile platform for experimentation, rapid learning and performance under pressure, providing opportunities to test drone handling, autonomy and operational concepts in a competitive environment.
Wing Commander Keirin Joyce, president of the ADF Drone Racing Team, said the partnership delivers mutual benefits.
“Our partnership with DroneShield helps drive innovation across Defence,” Joyce said. “By combining the expertise of pilots from the ADF drone racing team with cutting-edge counter-drone technology, we create a unique environment for testing, learning, and advancing Australia’s operational edge.”
DroneShield said the renewed support underscores its broader commitment to advancing Australian defence initiatives that promote innovation and technical excellence, while also strengthening ties between industry and the Defence Force.
In March 2026, the ADF Drone Racing Team will defend its world title for a sixth time at the Military International Drone Racing Tournament in Sydney.
The event is expected to again draw international attention to Australia’s leadership in drone technology and operational capability, with industry partnerships such as DroneShield’s playing a key supporting role.
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