L3Harris to build Electronic Warfare CoE in Brisbane

US company L3Harris Technologies has launched its Centre of Excellence (COE) for Electronic Warfare (EW) in Brisbane. This facility will feature expertise in the design, manufacture, integration and sustainment of high-reliability EW technology critical for modern military operations, the company says.

Brisbane is the home of L3Harris subsidiary Micreo which won an innovation award at the Land Forces Exposition in 2018 for its work on Defence’s REDWING electronic force protection system which was designed to protect troops against Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

 “L3Harris’ new operations in Queensland will contribute to a vibrant and growing defence supply chain, with their investment helping them better support the needs of the Australian Defence Force and the Australian defence industry,” said Jennifer Howard, Assistant Minister for Treasury, Trade and Investment for Queensland. The Queensland government is supporting the defence industry via the Queensland Defence Industries 10-Year Roadmap and Action Plan, as well as the Queensland Space Industry Strategy, she added.

The COE will also serve as the hub for L3Harris’ space, intelligence and cyber products used across Australia and the Indo-Pacific region. This effort will bring L3Harris’ support and delivery centres closer to the ADF and reduce turnaround times by increasing local manufacturing capabilities and jobs across new technologies for quantum sensing, robotics, secure communications and data management, the company says

The Australian facility will also enable the delivery of T4 and T7 robots to the ADF under Project LAND154 to enhance unit capabilities in IED neutralisation and exploitation. The robots are equipped with cameras and other features that detect, examine and neutralise explosive threats and hazards to help protect Australian personnel.

“The launch of our Centre of Excellence is a clear signal of L3Harris’ commitment to lead and shape the future of defence technology in Australia, for Australia, by our incredibly talented local workforce,” said Ed Zoiss, President, Space and Airborne Systems, L3Harris. “As we embark on this journey, we extend our gratitude to the ADF for their trust and partnership.”