The Australian Department of Defence has taken a significant step in bolstering its technological edge by awarding three new contracts under the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator’s (ASCA) Emerging and Disruptive Technologies (EDT) program. The new contracts, valued at $9 million AUD ($5.8 million USD), build on the $60 million AUD ($39 million USD) three-year investment in quantum technologies and information warfare, furthering the nation’s commitment to cutting-edge defence innovation.
These latest awards follow the 21 contracts announced at the end of last year, reinforcing the programme’s role in accelerating capability development in critical areas. The quantum-specific contracts have been awarded to CSIRO and Silicon Quantum Computing, marking a strategic push into sovereign quantum advancements.
CSIRO will lead the development of quantum machine learning algorithms designed to detect and mitigate adversarial and spoofing attacks, a growing concern in modern warfare. Meanwhile, Silicon Quantum Computing will focus on creating a sovereign-manufactured quantum-enhanced machine learning processor for Defence, ensuring Australia maintains a competitive edge in quantum computing.
In parallel, a consortium of leading Australian universities—Macquarie University, the University of Melbourne, the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, and the University of Technology Sydney—will conduct research into detecting mis- and dis-information. This initiative aligns with the Defence’s broader strategy to counter emerging threats in the information domain, where disinformation campaigns can undermine national security.
The ASCA EDT program is designed to foster long-term industry partnerships and accelerate capability development in key areas of priority for Defence. Chief Defence Scientist, Professor Tanya Monro AC, emphasised the program’s role in leveraging Australian industry and academia to deliver technologies that support national interests.
“This program is about fostering long-term industry partnerships and accelerating capability development in key areas of priority for Defence,” Professor Monro said. “Quantum technology and information warfare are two of the six key Innovation, Science and Technology (IS&T) priorities identified in the National Defence Strategy.”
The focus on quantum technologies and information warfare reflects Australia’s recognition of the rapidly evolving threat landscape. Quantum computing, with its potential to revolutionise encryption and data processing, is increasingly seen as a strategic asset in modern defence. Similarly, the ability to detect and counter disinformation is critical in an era where information warfare plays a pivotal role in geopolitical conflicts.
By investing in these areas, Australia is not only strengthening its defence capabilities but also positioning itself as a leader in global defence innovation. The collaboration between industry, academia, and government underscores a unified approach to addressing future security challenges.
As the ASCA EDT program continues to expand, it will likely serve as a model for other nations seeking to integrate emerging technologies into their defence strategies. The program’s success could also inspire further international partnerships, particularly in quantum research and information warfare, areas where collaboration is essential to staying ahead of adversarial threats.
In the broader context, these developments highlight the growing importance of science and technology in shaping national security. The Australian government’s commitment to these fields demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to defence, one that prioritises innovation and long-term strategic advantage. As the programme progresses, it will be crucial to monitor its impact on Australia’s defence capabilities and its influence on global defence technology trends.