The Australian Army has partnered with the Defence Innovation Hub in awarding a contract to SYPAQ to develop and demonstrate a next generation battlefield logistics small unmanned aerial system (UAS).
The Precision Payload Delivery System (PPDS) will be used by Australian soldiers.
Minister for Defence Industry, Linda Reynolds, said SYPAQ is stepping up to answer the challenges of Accelerated Warfare presented by Army.
“Defence units have an enduring need to be able to resupply their combat forces in the most hazardous environments,” said Reynolds.
“Ensuring our Defence Force personnel have the most innovative, cutting-edge technology will ensure they are supported in their mission to defend Australia and its interests on the battlefield.”
Head of Land Capability, Kath Toohey, CSC, said robotic innovations are key for the Army adapting to the challenges of the modern and future battlefield.
“Army’s soldiers will get the opportunity to test this platform later this year and guide the development of advanced capabilities like the PPDS,” said Toohey.
CEO of SYPAQ, Amanda Holt thanked the federal Government and Army for putting their faith in local companies like SYPAQ.
“Through initiatives such as the Defence Innovation Hub and Army Innovation Day, SYPAQ has had access to opportunities not typically available to small and medium sized businesses, including direct collaboration between innovators and end-users.”
SYPAQ is a 100 per cent Australian owned business. Since the Defence Innovation Hub was established in December 2016, the company has been awarded five innovation contracts for concept exploration and capability demonstration.
This contract, valued at over $1 million, was awarded as part of Army Innovation Day 2018, using the Defence Innovation Hub’s Special Notice solicitation process.
Special Notices allow Defence to call on industry and research organisations to submit proposals that can solve specific capability challenges.
Reynolds said she was pleased to see the Defence Innovation Hub, the Australian Army and our local industry partners working together to develop innovative solutions to enhance Defence capability.