QinetiQ has successfully demonstrated Australia’s first scalable high-power laser optical chain prototype, marking a significant milestone for the country’s Defence capabilities. The breakthrough, which took place at QinetiQ Laboratories (QLabs) in Adelaide, was executed in collaboration with the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG). This development paves the way for sovereign Directed Energy Defensive Systems intended for the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
According to Gary Stewart, Chief Executive of QinetiQ’s Australian Sector, "This achievement is an Australian-first. Our aim is to accelerate the development of sovereign high energy laser technology so it can be offered to the Australian Defence Force, enhancing their ability to manage current and emergent threats." With threats from uncrewed systems on the rise, the ability to implement high-energy laser (HEL) technology is seen as not only innovative but also necessary. Once fully developed, the Directed Energy Defensive Systems are expected to provide cost-effective alternatives to existing measures used for countering drones and other aerial threats.
QinetiQ's focus now shifts to delivering the next phase of their project—a full-scale prototype, which is anticipated to roll out during the first half of 2025. This project leverages QinetiQ’s advanced capabilities and the expertise found within DSTG, ensuring the two organizations work hand-in-hand to deliver state-of-the-art technology.
The collaboration aims to combine QinetiQ’s coherent beam combining (CBC) technology with the high-power amplifiers supplied by DSTG. The CBC technology is pivotal as it integrates multiple high-power laser beams, ensuring high power is maintained along with the quality of the beam over distance, thereby enhancing effectiveness.
The undoubted relevance of this project's ambition is echoed throughout Australia’s defense innovation ecosystem. QinetiQ's project is considered integral to translating advanced technologies developed through partnerships with institutions like DSTG and other international defense organizations, including QinetiQ UK, which is part of the DragonFire consortium. The DragonFire system is known for its directed energy weapons program for the UK Ministry of Defence and performed its first test back in November 2022. Initially slated for deployment by 2032, it is now on track to be fielded on UK naval ships by 2027, showcasing the urgency to adapt faster to contemporary threats.
Overall, this venture signifies not merely technological advancement but also Australia’s proactive approach to strengthening its defense infrastructure. The production of advanced HEL systems is part and parcel of broader strategic interests, demonstrating the’s commitment to national security and operational capacity.
QinetiQ’s collaboration with DSTG brings together years of knowledge and expertise paving the way for innovations aimed directly at enhancing the combat capabilities of the ADF. The strategic partnership highlights how defence technology is progressing from concept to reality through focused efforts and partnerships, turning theoretical innovations back to practical applications.
This Australian-first demonstration not only reflects the growing interdependence among global defense sectors but highlights the potential for home-grown technological solutions to meet the country's security needs. With the advancements made by QinetiQ and DSTG, Australia is poised to take significant steps toward securing its skies against the pressing matter of UAVs and drone threats.
The future of high-energy laser technology looks promising, with the integration of advanced capabilities via collaborative efforts between Australian and UK defense sectors likely to yield notable advancements. The establishment of these directed energy systems heralds the dawn of new defensive methodologies, offering effective and innovative solutions as Australia seeks to safeguard its integral sovereignty and operational readiness.
By committing to focusing on developing indigenous defence technologies, QinetiQ and DSTG are ensuring Australia remains not only self-reliant but also at the forefront of modern military capabilities. With the full-scale prototype on the horizon, the coming years could see Australia leading the charge with its directed energy systems becoming integral components of its defence strategy.
