‘Growth and Maturity’ Hallmarks of Defence Aerospace

While national attention has understandably been focused on AUKUS, the opportunities within the aerospace sector remain on a growth trajectory – despite the hurdles thrown up by COVID-19.

“With the AUKUS announcement and the maritime programs occurring in South Australia, people sometimes overlook the hub of aerospace and EW capability that we have in South Australia,” said DTC CEO, Audra McCarthy.

“This is not a new undertaking; what we see is significant maturity and stability.

“It’s important that we don’t lose sight of the opportunities right across Australia and locally at RAAF Edinburgh.”

This theme is reiterated by the Minister for Defence, Peter Dutton.

“Australia is not putting all its defence eggs in one basket,” he said, noting that nuclear-powered submarines will “complement other defence capabilities”.

“Australia has embraced the development of asymmetric capabilities – things like long-range missiles, hypersonic weapons, anti-access and area denial systems, offensive cyber technologies, autonomous craft and remotely piloted drones – capabilities which are essential for Australia to deter potential hostile actors with larger military forces.

“Australia’s defence industry has unique skills and expertise in distinct areas which could see it become a leader in helping to develop asymmetric capabilities quickly, cheaply and at scale. By so doing, we will build our sovereign capabilities, bolster national resilience, enable the ADF to act with greater independence, expand export opportunities, and become a stronger defence partner to our allies and friends.”