Counter-drone tech tested on Aussie exercise

Defensive anti-drone technology was put to the test by soldiers deployed on Exercise Austral Shield 2026 in Weipa, far-north Queensland.

CAPTION: Australian Defence Force personnel deployed as Joint Task Force 629 in Weipa, Queensland, test and train with counter UAS technology during Exercise Austral Shield 2026. Story by Captain Tim Klingner. Photo by Private Brendan Smith.

OIC of the counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS) program, Lieutenant Colonel Paul Middleton, said the exercise was a first.

“This exercise provides the first collective training experience in a tactical environment using counter-drone technology against drone threats, which is a significant enhancement for the broader joint force,” Lieutenant Colonel Middleton said.

“The DroneBuster Mk4 is a highly effective tactical counter-drone system that uses radio-frequency attack to disrupt threat drones.”

Also being tested were the KeyOptions Sky Control software and hardware systems, alongside DroneShield’s RfPatrol Mk2, which provides area detection capability.

Lieutenant Colonel Middleton said there were three main objectives – first, to give soldiers an opportunity to apply their learning in the field – second, to help us understand the capabilities and limitations of the equipment and, finally, to allow commanders and soldiers to adapt their tactics and procedures to respond to drone threats.

“We’re getting down to the lowest tactical level and coaching soldiers on how to employ the capability,” he said.

“We’re discussing tactics, not just at the section level, but also how individual counter-UAS actions can be integrated into a battlegroup-sized force element.”

Commander Joint Operations Vice Admiral Justin Jones said the capability had become a priority following recent command-post exercises.

“Each year we conduct command-post exercises, and what we learn from these is often theoretical, so we use exercises like Austral Shield to test, trial and rehearse the scenarios and lessons that emerge from those activities,” Vice Admiral Jones said.

.

.


.


.