DSTG, QinetiQ to collaborate on directed energy weapon project

Defence Science and Technology Group has confirmed that it will work with QinetiQ Australia on the latter’s $12.9 million laser directed energy weapon development contract.

In a statement from Defence Science Technology Group on Tuesday, DSTG said the project would see it collaborate on development of a prototype “defensive laser system”. 

It would also see establishment of “laser manufacturing capability” that could enable “development and delivery of laser sources suitable for directed energy applications.”

“DSTG is partnering with industry to build advanced and competitive Australian sovereign capabilities for our Defence Force in critical technology areas,” said Professor Tanya Monro, Chief Defence Scientist.

News of QinetiQ’s contract was originally revealed in a third-quarter update made in January by its UK parent company.

As reported at the time by @AuManufacturing at the time, a three-year contract with the Department of Defence would see QinetiQ Australia “develop and manufacture a high energy defensive laser weapon system prototype… [establishing] a sovereign in-country High Energy Laser manufacturing capability.”

Picture: UK DragonFire DEW co-developed by QinetiQ (credit QinetiQ Group)

Further reading

$8.4M INNOVATION GRANTS TO DMTC LTD, QINETIQ

QINETIQ TO MANUFACTURE HIGH POWER DEFENCE LASERS