XTEK unmanned aerial systems orders grow

Composites group XTEK has received a purchase order from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) for the supply of additional AeroVironment WASP AE Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS).

The order, worth $2.8 million, is in addition to the ongoing SUAS supply contract to the ADF.

The AeroVironment craft provides real-time video and thermal data, covering a wide area, wirelessly transmitting it to a hand-held ground control unit.

XTEK, which also manufactures ballistic armour in Adelaide, also has an ongoing spare parts and engineering services contract with defence to support its’ SUAS fleet.

That contract is worth $8 million a year and supports more than 50 AeroVironment WASP craft delivered to date, with more on order.

XTEK managing director Philippe Odouard said: “Our SUAS business underpins our increasing revenue, with recurring attributes.

“Our facility in Canberra is in full operation providing critical repair and maintenance services to support the ADF’s growing SUAS fleet.”

Picture: AeroVironment WASP AE

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