Thales Australia and University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ partner to explore long-range counter UAS laser technology
Graham Evenden, Director Business Growth, Thales Australia (left) and Professor Anton Middelberg, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ.
- Thales Australia and University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ 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.  Â
Graham Evenden, Thales Australia Director OME said: “This is an exciting opportunity to work with the University of ÐÂÀ˲ÊƱ on a unique USPL technology that builds on Thales’ expertise in Directed Energy Weapons, optronics and laser science.
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