The Australian government has signed a $5.48 million contract with one of Adelaide’s leading space industry players to expand its cutting-edge satellite communications network for use by Defence. The contract with Myriota Pty Ltd, awarded through the Defence Innovation Hub, demonstrates the government’s commitment to significantly increase investment in space capabilities and innovation through cooperation with Australian Industry. Under the contract, Myriota will use its network of nano-satellites to retrieve data from sensors across hundreds of Defence platforms, forming a global, space-enabled communications network.
Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the contract would contribute to growing a robust, resilient and innovative industrial base for space technologies in Australia. “Sovereign, space-enabled capabilities are critical to the future of Defence,” Price said. “This innovation could enable the secure transfer of Defence data from almost anywhere on Earth. The Morrison Government’s investment in innovative space technology through the Defence Innovation Hub complements our $7 billion commitment to significantly increase investment in Defence’s space capabilities. This investment will help build Australia’s sovereign space industry and skilled workforce.”
If successful, the secure, flexible and scalable direct-to-orbit satellite connectivity network, known as the ‘Internet of Military Things’, could deliver increased operational efficiency, safety, and reliability. This is achieved through greater situational awareness, visibility and preventative maintenance. The contract follows Myriota’s successful engagement with Defence’s Next Generation Technologies Fund, part of the integrated Defence innovation system.
“This technology has the potential to be used beyond Defence, with potential impact across almost all sectors of the Australian economy,” Price said. “From mining to remote education, Myriota’s secure satellite communications technologies will provide global connectivity.”
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