Robert Dougherty

The 3.2-megawatt system solar farm, operated and maintained by Assure Energy, is expected to deliver up to 40 per cent of the Australian Defence Force base’s energy requirements.

Under the contract, announced on 29 January and subject to Australian government export approval, EOS will supply its Slinger counter-drone system for integration on lightweight 4×4 platforms produced by Diehl Defence.

Concerns have been raised about low-altitude, low-visibility equipment utilised by the Australian Defence Force’s now-scrapped MRH-90 Taipan helicopter fleet. Several alleged technical issues involving the MRH-90 Taipan helicopters were inquired about during a Senate committee meeting in Canberra on 25 October 2023.

Approximately $16 million will be invested in RAAF Base Townsville for refurbishments to Hangar 75, which houses critical air capabilities, according to a federal government statement published on 23 January.

Minister Conroy, speaking on ABC Radio on Thursday, said a global search undertaken by MRH-90 Taipan contractor NATO Helicopter Industries to find buyers for the beleaguered fleet uncovered “zero interest”, before hitting back at public scrutiny over the government’s refusal to send the capability to Ukraine.

The deal will see engineering firm KBR support the surveillance aircraft’s aeronautical and geospatial requirements alongside its mission planning.