Quantum-Systems Secures Contracts with Australia for DEF129-SUAS Program.

Quantum-Systems Inc., a renowned provider of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aerial intelligence solutions, has secured two major contracts with the Commonwealth of Australia. These contracts, part of the DEF129-SUAS program (formerly known as Land 129 Phase 4B), are valued at AUD 90 million and represent a substantial investment in advanced small uncrewed aerial systems (sUAS). This announcement was made by the company on July 15, 2024.
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Vector eVTOL sUAS to provide Australian Army combat teams with enhanced situational awareness and increased force protection. (Picture source: Quantum-Systems)

The contracts, signed on April 24, 2024, in Brisbane, Queensland, encompass the acquisition of Quantum-Systems' 2-in-1 Vector/Scorpion fixed-wing eVTOL sUAS, along with a comprehensive support package. This support includes training, maintenance, engineering, supply logistics, and other essential services. Delivery of the systems is scheduled to begin in April 2025, with ongoing support services extending through 2031.

The Vector eVTOL sUAS is designed to provide Australian Army combat teams with significantly enhanced situational awareness and increased force protection. Its advanced capabilities include real-time, high-resolution video for surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Notably, the system is portable in a backpack, can be operational within three minutes, and can take off and land in confined spaces without the need for additional equipment. Additionally, it can be configured as the Scorpion multicopter by replacing the wings and tail with a set of arms and rotors, offering versatile deployment options.

Quantum-Systems Australia, based in Redbank, Queensland, will be responsible for executing these contracts within the country, ensuring substantial local involvement. This initiative is aimed at stimulating economic development in Australia, particularly benefiting Indigenous Enterprises, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and organizations promoting veteran employment. In March 2024, Quantum-Systems Australia inaugurated a 22,755 square-foot manufacturing facility, demonstrating its long-term commitment to the region. This facility is expected to create up to 50 new jobs in engineering, manufacturing, and administration over the next five years, supporting the company's broader business growth strategy in the Asia-Pacific region.

David Sharpin, CEO of Quantum-Systems Inc., expressed his pride in being chosen for this crucial role in enhancing the capabilities of the Australian Army. "We are honored to equip the Army combat teams with our advanced sUAS, providing them with the enhanced situational awareness and increased force protection they need," he said. Sharpin also emphasized the company's ongoing commitment to identifying further opportunities within the Australian industry, reinforcing their dedication to nurturing local talent and strengthening the country's defense capabilities.

Quantum-Systems Inc., headquartered in Moorpark, California, specializes in the development, design, and production of fully autonomous sUAS. The company integrates eVTOL technologies, automatic transitioning, and AI edge computing to deliver sUAS with superior endurance, reliability, and actionable intelligence.