Australian firms participate in Canadian anti-drone event

17 July 2024

Australian companies AIM Defence and Electro Optic Systems (EOS) took part in the Canadian Department of National Defence’s (DND) Counter Uncrewed Aerial Systems (CUAS) Sandbox event.

The event, part of the DND’s Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program, was held between 27 May and 21 June at Canadian Forces Base Suffield in Alberta. During the event, EOS demonstrated a version of its Slinger CUAS system equipped with a laser dazzler instead of the normal 7.62mm coaxial machine gun. Slinger is typically equipped with a 30mm Bushmaster autocannon and a 7.62mm machine gun. “Through the success of our Slinger system, we have proven our ability to deliver accurate counter-drone technologies. The Laser Dazzler builds on this experience, using our world-leading technology to extend options for non-lethal payloads,” said the Group CEO of Electro Optic Systems, Andreas Schwer. AIM Defence, which recently won a contract to provide the Australian Army with its Fractl Portable High Energy Laser system, also participated in the exercise during which it successfully damaged target Uncrewed Aerial Systems. Participation in the Sandbox event allows companies to demonstrate their CUAS solutions to several Canadian government entities and agencies including the DND, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and US Department of Defense Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate (IWTSD). The DND is expected to announce which companies won prizes at the event in the coming months. The prizes are $CAD1 million for first place, $CAD500,000 for second place, and $CAD250,000 for third place. According to the DND there is also “potential post-Sandbox developmental work and funding for selected applicants.”

Australian firms participate in Canadian anti-drone event - Australian Defence Magazine