ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥

• Thales ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ and ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ of Adelaide will explore development of a unique Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW) to counter battlespace threats, including fast-moving swarms of low-profile, armed Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) at extended ranges.
• The partnership will explore the application of ultra-short pulse LDEW where long-range continuous wave systems have traditionally been used.
• Ultra-short pulse lasers (USPL) can be transformative in the development of Directed Energy capabilities, one of the six immediate priorities for the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA).

Traditionally, counter-drone LDEW are based on continuous wave systems that are more limited in range and slower to counter threats.

A USPL-based capability is more effective at long range, can penetrate through fog or cloud, and has a significantly smaller weight, space and power requirement; enabling mobility, transportability and integration into vehicles and smaller platforms.    

Graham Evenden, Thales ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ Director OME said: “This is an exciting opportunity to work with the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ of Adelaide on a unique USPL technology that builds on Thales’ expertise in Directed Energy Weapons, optronics and laser science.

"This exploration has the potential to lay a strong foundation for future innovation in laser technologies for the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥n Defence Force and its allies.â€�

Professor Anton Middelberg, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ of Adelaide said: "As one of the nation’s most research-intensive institutions the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ of Adelaide is pleased to be working with Thales ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ to undertake impactful research into Ultrashort and Short Pulse Laser (USPL) technology within the DualTech-USPL group.

"This partnership is part of the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥â€™s commitment to ensuring that it builds and maintains the research skills, infrastructure, commercialisation and knowledge transfer abilities required to contribute to the defence of our nation.â€�