Defence Trailblazer is spearheading a series of clean-energy and low-emissions technology projects designed to accelerate Australia’s defence sector towards net-zero emissions while bolstering the nation’s sovereign manufacturing capabilities. These initiatives align with the Defence Future Energy Strategy and the Federal Government’s ambitious goal to reduce emissions by 62–70 per cent below 2005 levels by 2035.
The Defence Trailblazer’s Technology Development & Acceleration portfolio is at the forefront of this transformation, fostering collaborations between defence industry partners and leading researchers from the University of Adelaide and UNSW. Three key projects under the Robotics, Autonomous Systems and Artificial Intelligence theme exemplify this innovative approach.
Electric Motor Power is collaborating with researchers from the University of Adelaide to develop advanced electric motors that are lighter, more efficient, and environmentally friendly. By utilising cutting-edge materials such as amorphous magnetic materials and soft magnetic composites, the project aims to enhance the performance and sustainability of electric propulsion systems.
Ocius Technology and UNSW Canberra are partnering to scale up the production of the Bluebottle uncrewed surface vessel fleet. These vessels harness renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, and wave power, to provide long-endurance surveillance capabilities. The Bluebottle fleet offers significant operational advantages for the Royal Australian Navy, particularly in remote and challenging environments.
Praxis, in collaboration with the University of Adelaide’s Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, is developing a next-generation camouflage photovoltaic module. Known as the ‘Camouflaged Tactical Solar’ prototype, this innovation aims to enhance energy resilience for defence systems deployed in remote locations, ensuring reliable power supply while maintaining a low visual profile.
Dr Margaret Law, Defence Trailblazer’s general manager of technology development and acceleration, highlighted the strategic importance of these projects. “At Defence Trailblazer, we have been consistently impressed by the innovative research being carried out by our industry partners and collaborating academics,” she said. “The Net Zero strategy requires transformational uplift to prepare for future energy needs. By investing in low-emissions energy technologies, projects like these are ensuring a capable and resilient sovereign supply chain.”
Further support is being provided through the Entrepreneurial Foundations for Defence (EFD) program, which accelerates the commercial readiness of early-stage ventures. Companies such as Advanced Composite Design Corporation, Aquila Space Technologies, CleanSubSea, ecoJet Engineering, Electro Base, Hullbot, and SolaLinx are contributing a range of technologies. These include lightweight nickel-iron batteries, wireless drone-powering systems, automated hull-cleaning robotics, and solar-enhancement overlays.
Richard Williamson, Defence Trailblazer project manager, emphasised the breadth of innovation these ventures represent. “These case studies showcase the huge technological scope of the projects and ventures,” he said. “Our industry partners are leveraging Defence Trailblazer’s entire suite of R&D and innovation pathways to fast-track their leading-edge technologies – delivering sovereign capabilities that will improve Defence’s energy resilience and help achieve Net Zero.”
As Defence Trailblazer continues to push the boundaries of clean-energy and low-emissions technologies, these projects not only strengthen Australia’s defence capabilities but also pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future.