Defence is supporting Australia’s sovereign space industry with a partnership to develop and launch a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite.

Through a space innovation, science and technology agreement between Defence and Optus, the innovative satellite project will include Defence research equipment as well as additional research equipment developed by the University of Southern Queensland.

Defence is contributing $4 million to the project under a co-funded arrangement. Optus is providing significant investment and in-kind resources, and will lead the consortium to build, launch and operate the spacecraft. 

Chief Defence Scientist, Professor Tanya Monro AC, said equipment on-board the satellite will support research and technology development, and build Australian sovereign expertise in optical and LEO communications.

“By investing in innovative R&D projects, we strive to develop next-generation capabilities that are resilient and secure for potential future Defence applications,” Professor Monro said.

The communications system, using both laser light and radio-frequencies for data transfer, will be developed by the University of South Australia in collaboration with Defence Science and Technology Group. The research is also receiving significant funding from the Australian Government’s iLAuNCH Trailblazer Universities Program, delivered by the Federal Department of Education.

Adelaide-based space business Inovor Technologies will manufacture the main body of the spacecraft, as they did for the recently and successfully launched Buccaneer Main Mission (BMM) nanosatellite, which also hosted experimental Defence equipment.

“This is a great example of Government, industry and academia partnering to grow Australia’s sovereign space sector capabilities, creating exciting new opportunities to strengthen our national security,” Professor Monro said.

The satellite launch is expected to take place in 2028.

Media note

Media can access imagery/vision at https://images.defence.gov.au/assets/S20251959