Australian DoD partners with robotics company Chironix

The Australian Department of Defence (DoD) has partnered with Perth-based robotics company Chironix for the development of a robotic command and control system.

The system is expected to help save lives on the battlefield by allowing the evacuation of casualties using an autonomous vehicle.

It is currently in the proof-of-concept stage and will enable deployed soldiers to request supplies and carry out logistical tasks with the help of robots.

Chironix develops software for robots that customises them for defence uses, as well as other sectors such as mining, construction and oil and gas.

The agreement signed with the DoD is said to be valued at around $160,000 and includes the use of driverless technology in vehicle convoys.

Australian Defence Industry Minister Melissa Price said: “Technological evolution and innovation in land combat and protected vehicle capability is integral to giving Australia a warfighting edge.

“A key contributor to this will be the development of a robust, resilient and internationally competitive Australian defence industry.

“It is for that reason that the Morrison government is proud to partner with Chironix and invest in developing autonomous systems capabilities.

“Our investment helps create a highly skilled workforce and intellectual property that will enable the ongoing and agile evolution of land combat and protected vehicle technologies.”

Last week, the Government of Australia released the enhanced active phased array and passive radar capability Sovereign Industrial Capability Priority Plan.