Silentium Defence has been selected as one of several Australian companies to deliver counter-drone capabilities to the Australian Defence Force under LAND 156, a long-term procurement effort valued at more than $1.3 billion over the next decade.
The South Australia-based company will supply its M8 passive radar system as part of the program, which is focused on strengthening the ADF’s ability to detect and respond to uncrewed aerial threats. The broader effort aligns with Australia’s push to expand sovereign defense technologies and reduce reliance on foreign systems in key capability areas.
According to Silentium Defence, the M8 system is designed to detect drones, aircraft and ground vehicles, including targets that do not emit radio frequency signals. Unlike active radar systems, the passive radar technology does not transmit signals, allowing it to operate without revealing its own position. This approach is intended to support operations in contested environments where survivability and discretion are critical.
The M8 is described as lightweight and rapidly deployable, with the ability to operate across land, air and littoral environments. The system provides real-time situational awareness and is intended to support force protection and airspace monitoring missions, particularly against small and low-observable threats.
Silentium Defence said its selection reflects increasing demand for passive sensing technologies as drone threats continue to evolve. Berni White, the company’s head of future business, said the LAND 156 program represents an opportunity for domestic companies to contribute directly to Australia’s counter-drone capabilities and to further develop sovereign technology. He added that inclusion as an initial vendor indicates growing confidence in the company’s passive radar approach.
The procurement forms part of the Commonwealth’s wider effort to modernize counter-UAS capabilities across the ADF.
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Post Image Credit: Silentium
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