Australian Military Procures Target-Hunting Drones
Australian soldiers will now have access to the Switchblade 300, a drone that has been utilized in the Ukraine War.
The Australian government has announced that the country’s soldiers will be better prepared to address threats with the introduction of the new Switchblade 300 drones.
These “kamikaze” drones, classified as precision loitering munitions, mark the first instance of drone weapons being utilized by the Australian Defence Force. Previous drones acquired by the ADF were predominantly employed for surveillance and intelligence gathering purposes.
The addition of the Switchblade 300 enhances the ADF’s drone arsenal, including armed-capable options.
Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy MP emphasized the government’s commitment to national security.
“The prosperity and security of our nation will always be a top priority for the Albanese government,” he stated. “Providing our soldiers with the necessary capabilities to protect Australians and their interests is paramount.”
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“With autonomous weapon systems becoming increasingly common, the Defence Strategic Review has highlighted the importance of adopting new technology and asymmetric advantages.”
Mr. Conroy stressed the significance of Australia staying up-to-date with evolving battle technology.
“The introduction of this proven precision loitering munition showcases how swiftly we are integrating capabilities into the ADF,” he remarked. “It illustrates the Australian government’s commitment to equipping the ADF with cutting-edge technologies needed to address the challenges we encounter.”
What Does the Switchblade Do?
Unlike conventional reconnaissance drones, the Switchblade is an aerial weapon that has the capability to “loiter.” It is designed to linger around a target area before launching a direct attack by crashing into the target and triggering an explosion.
Carried in the backpack of a soldier, the Switchblade is fired into the air, unfolding its wings mid-air, hence the moniker “switchblade.”
A variety of drones, including loitering munitions, have proven to be effective in neutralizing soldiers, tanks, and other military assets in conflict situations like the Russian invasion in Ukraine.
The Australian government assures that these weapons provide top-tier lethality and defense against potential adversaries.
The ADF currently possesses a range of unarmed drones and drones that can be equipped with weapons, some of which have been in service for over a decade.
Delivery of the first Switchblade to Australia is anticipated later this year, with plans for integration into service by 2025.
No specific cost details were disclosed.
The U.S. government has already provided hundreds of Switchblade 300 drones to Ukrainian forces.
According to international news outlets, the U.S. government paid up to $80,000 ($A118,885) per unit for their Switchblade 300 drones.
