Can NATO’s CUAS marketplace turn urgent demand into deliveries?
Framework contracts and leasing options aim to shorten acquisition timelines, while manufacturing partnerships could help suppliers scale production to meet allied demand.
Australia inducts new QinetiQ EOD robots and 9mm pistols into service
The bantamweight Squad Packable Utility Robot (SPUR) from QinetiQ has been chosen by both Australia and the USA to date. (Photo: QinetiQ)
The new inductions will add significantly to the ADF’s infantry capabilities, especially during in-combat explosive ordnance disposal situations.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has begun using two new technologies in service, the Squad Packable Utility Robot (SPUR) from QinetiQ and the new SIG Sauer P320 X-Carry Pro 9mm pistols.
QinetiQ is supplying the SPUR to all three ADF services for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) missions under an A$16 million (US$10 million) contract signed by prime vendor Babcock Australasia.
While in service with the ADF, the SPUR will be known as the Remote Positioning Vehicle - Light (RPV-L). Babcock explained that they would be used for “search, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance activities to mitigate and deny the use of
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