Australian Army awards Skylark contract for SUAS+
The Australian Army has ordered a number of Skylark I-LEX hand-launched SUAV+ aircraft. (Photo: Elbit Systems)
Elbit Systems is a beneficiary of an Australian SUAS+ contract, which the ADF will use to support civilian operations for disaster and humanitarian relief.
The Australian Army has procured Skylark I-LEX small UAVs according to a press release issued by Elbit Systems on 7 December.
These UAVs, numbering eight systems in total, will ‘enable Australian Defence Force (ADF) support to civilian operations for disaster and humanitarian relief,’ the Israeli OEM stated.
For this purpose, Australia specified that the Skylark I-LEX aircraft be fitted with an EO sensor and automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) system.
ADS-B provides real-time precision and shared situational awareness to pilots and air traffic controllers. Thus, the Skylarks can more safely fly in wider classes of airspace, something very useful in a disaster
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Spain air report: Demand builds with $19.7 billion up for grabs in unawarded contracts]()
Spain air report: Demand builds with $19.7 billion up for grabs in unawarded contracts
Despite Spain’s modest GDP spend on defence, the country still has a range of fixed-wing and UAV programme requirements as yet unawarded, with a potential US$3.10 billion set to be spent over the next decade.
-
![Why the F-16 fighter jet remains a force to be reckoned with (updated 2026)]()
Why the F-16 fighter jet remains a force to be reckoned with (updated 2026)
The Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jet remains in the limelight more than 40 years after its first flight. Shephard sums up the latest developments and details everything you need to know about the aircraft in 2026.
-
![Airbus Helicopters sees defence portfolio’s “strong momentum” continue into 2026]()
Airbus Helicopters sees defence portfolio’s “strong momentum” continue into 2026
The aerospace company’s 2025 performance figures revealed significant orders from various European armed forces and a boost in demand for its uncrewed offerings.
-
![British Army ACP project progresses with contract selection expected March 2026]()
British Army ACP project progresses with contract selection expected March 2026
Known as Project Nyx, the loyal wingman developed from this initiative will accompany the Apache 64-E and be used to complement tanks and artillery.
