Advanced robotics and autonomous defence systems innovator Exail has deepened its strategic partnership with local defence industry leaders through CEO Dominique Giannoni’s recent visit to Australia, with the aim of securing the Royal Australian Navy’s SEA 1905.
In collaboration with Exail, local companies UGL, Acacia Systems and Solutions from Silicon (SfS), are poised to swiftly deliver cutting-edge, third-generation Maritime Mine Countermeasures (MCM) and Military Survey (MS) solutions for the Royal Australian Navy’s SEA1905 project, focused on transferring intellectual property (IP) and technical knowledge to ensure a future sovereign capability.
“SEA 1905 project is critical to the Royal Australian Navy and time is of the essence. This is why Exail is preparing to deliver the capability right now with its Australian partners: we are prioritising efficiency in every step. Through our diligent approach, we know we can hit the ground running on Project SEA1905 as soon as the decision is made. Our partnership with UGL, Acacia Systems and SfS, exemplifies our commitment to working hand in hand with Australian companies, fostering collaboration, and ensuring the long-term growth of Australia’s defence capabilities. Furthermore, we believe that the best outcome lies in the seamless complementary nature of our partnerships, where each partner excels in their domain of expertise. By fostering the most optimised organisation, Exail is ensuring that every aspect of our collaboration brings value for money for Australia,” said Giannoni.
UGL, a member of the CIMIC Group, will play a crucial role in bolstering Australia’s sovereign defence capability and serving as an Australian hub for Exail’s world-leading mine countermeasures, military survey, and Robotic Autonomous System (RAS) technologies. One of UGL’s many strengths is a proven track record for representing foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in Australia and being able to cooperatively continue local (Australian) development of the technology.
Acacia Systems, a South Australian-based defence software and systems engineering company, will receive the necessary know-how to maintain Exail’s core UMISOFTTM Mission Management software. SfS based in Sydney, will bring its local experience in MCM to the partnership and will ensure the mine warfare tactical command software (MINTACS) integration with UMISTM, Exail’s MCM system solution.
“Our collaboration with Exail presents a unique opportunity to advance Australia’s defence industry,” said UGL General Manager Defence Terry Nichols. “Together, we are committed to delivering state-of-the-art robotics solutions while ensuring a smooth transition of IP to support Australia’s long-term sovereignty and technological advancement. Added to this, our national footprint and access to one of Australia’s largest supply chains, means that Defence can deploy the SEA1905 capabilities whenever and wherever they are needed, confident that support is always readily and immediately available.”
Exail’s proven track record in successfully implementing autonomous unmanned solutions for major naval programs, such as the Belgian and the Dutch Navies, serves as a testament to their mature capability and expertise. The UMISTM system, currently in service with leading military navies worldwide, provides a low-risk solution that aligns with Australian operational requirements and is ready for immediate deployment.
“We are excited to collaborate with Exail and our esteemed Australian partners to deliver cutting-edge unmanned solutions,” said SfS Technical Director Russell Norman. “By working closely together, we will ensure the seamless interface with MINTACS and empower the Royal Australian Navy with next generation mine countermeasures capabilities.”
Similarly, Acacia System’s CEO Horden Wiltshire said he was delighted to be the key strategic partner responsible for maintaining UMISOFT and evergreening the capability throughout the project’s life. “Exail has demonstrated a real commitment to local industry, including the transfer of technology onshore, to enable the rapid through life enhancement of capability, which will be delivered via a collaborative engagement with the RAN,” said Wiltshire.
Exail’s commitment to the growth of Australian Industry Capability is unwavering. Through collaborations with local companies, knowledge transfer, and technology exchange, Exail aims to accelerate the development of an Australian sovereign capability in robotics and autonomous defence systems for the underwater domain.
These agreements with UGL, Acacia Systems, SfS, and other Australian entities including local universities, further strengthen their commitment to fostering local industry participation.
“We believe in the power of collaboration and knowledge-sharing,” said Giannoni. “By partnering with Australian companies, universities, and research organisations, we are actively driving the growth of Australian Industry Capability, while ensuring the smooth transfer of intellectual property and technological expertise.”