Former chief of army Peter Leahy says the Australian Defence Force needs an “urgent” upgrade to drone resistance technology.
Mr Leahy told Sky News host Chris Kenny that Australia doesn’t have the “capabilities” to defend against drone attacks.
“We’re seeing everyday on television, the threat.
“We just don’t have the capabilities to defend ourselves with counter-drone capabilities.
“We need to do something urgently.”
Calls for Enhanced Counter-Drone Capabilities in ADF
In an urgent call to action, former chief of army Peter Leahy has voiced the need for a significant upgrade in the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) counter-drone technology. This comes amid growing concerns about Australia’s ability to defend against drone attacks.
“We’re seeing every day on television, the threat,” Mr. Leahy told Sky News host Chris Kenny. “We just don’t have the capabilities to defend ourselves with counter-drone capabilities. We need to do something urgently.”
The ADF has been under scrutiny for its perceived military incompetence and counter-drone failings12. Reports suggest a concerning loss of personnel at more than 10 per cent a year and a radical underperformance in recruitment.
While the ADF has yet to fully commit to new counter-drone capabilities, Australian industry and research centres are already working hard to develop innovative drone technology. Aerial drones developed by Australian companies are set to be showcased as part of an Australian Government initiative.
However, the current state of affairs suggests that these efforts may not be enough. The Department of Energy has also started seeking information about the available technologies, approaches, and business models for counter-drone capabilities, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
A strategic review unveiled by Australia emphasized the need for the military to apply several “critical capabilities,” including maritime drones. Yet, the country seems to lag in terms of counter-drone technology.
The risks posed by drone warfare are evident. The Joint Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office of the Pentagon has been making headway in moving capability out of development and into the field. However, whether the ADF can keep pace with these advancements remains to be seen.
With drones increasingly becoming a staple in modern warfare, the need for robust counter-drone capabilities has never been more critical. As Mr. Leahy stressed, it’s time for Australia to take urgent action to upgrade its defence technology.
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