| UAVs on Trial over Northern Waters in Australia - Minister for Justice and Customs |
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 Trials of an unmanned aerial surveillance vehicle, commencing later this year, will assess the suitability of unmanned surveillance platforms to protect Australia’s borders.The ten week trial of the high-tech unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) follow on from the signing of contracts between Australian Customs and Israel Aerospace Industries for the delivery of the mid-range Heron UAV. The trial is part of range of measures funded by the Federal Government to protect Australia’s offshore maritime areas.
The aim of the trial is to enable Border Protection Command to consider the suitability of UAV technology to supplement Australia’s civil maritime surveillance program. Approximately $5.5 million over two years has been allocated for the conduct of the trial and Border Protection Command is working closely with other government agencies to ensure the trial outcomes can be maximised across government. The UAV will be equipped with high performance radar and electro optical surveillance sensors. It will use satellite communications for Beyond Line of Sight platform control and the transfer of surveillance information into a dedicated Ground Control Station and to the National Surveillance Centre in Canberra. Subject to the necessary aviation and communication approvals it is anticipated the trial will commence in the third quarter this year. - Press Release by M J&C |
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