BAE Systems Australia has welcomed an announcement by Defence Industry Minister Christopher Pyne of $4.9 million to support the development of world leading Electronic Warfare technology for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).
The announcement brings to almost $40 million the amount allocated recently to BAE Systems by the Australian Government for research and development of technology for the Australian Defence Force.
The “Cuttlefish system” has been developed through collaboration between BAE Systems Australia and the DST Group. The technology is unique in that it protects the integrity of RAN platforms from an adversary’s surveillance in real time.
The funds will enable BAE Systems to continue to mature the Cuttlefish capability for the next 24 months, culminating in sea trials in 2019. Pivotal to the Company’s development of this innovative technology is its collaboration with Defence.
BAE Systems Australia Chief Executive Glynn Phillips said: “The Company is at the forefront of Australian Electronic Warfare innovation that enables military platforms to operate in the presence of hostile electronic signals.
“We have purposefully worked to create a unique domestic capability in Australia that is today an integral part of a stronger, more Sovereign Australian industry.”