DSTG and DroneShield Sign Bilateral Collaborative Research Agreement to Advance Counter-Drone Technology

Sydney, Australia – 26 February 2026 – DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a global leader in counter-drone technology, today announced the signing of a Bilateral Collaborative Research Agreement (CRA) with the Australian Department of Defence (Defence), through the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG), to strengthen Australia’s capability in counter-drone technology.

The agreement establishes a framework for sharing data on emerging drone technologies and access to either parties test articles, ranges and facilities. This collaboration will leverage DSTG’s scientific expertise and DroneShield’s industry-leading counter-drone technology to ensure both organisations continue to deliver world-class solutions to emerging threats posed by new drones.

DroneShield has also announced the establishment of a $13 million R&D Hub in Adelaide for counter-drone technology, strategically located to enable closer collaboration with Defence and DSTG. This investment complements DroneShield’s previous R&D collaborations, such as with the DSTG-supported Defence Innovation Network that helped develop DroneOptID, DroneShield’s optical system for detection, identification and tracking of fast-moving drones.

Angus Bean, Chief Product Officer of DroneShield said, “This agreement represents an important step in advancing counter-drone technology not only for Defence but for DroneShield’s end-users globally. Working closely with DSTG allows us to combine our practical experience with their research expertise to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the Australian Defence Force.”

The collaboration will focus on emerging drone technologies through sharing data, test articles and conducting collaborative test programs to drive innovation areas that enhance detection, tracking, and neutralisation of unauthorised drones, supporting Defence and industry efforts to safeguard Australia’s security in an increasingly complex operational environment.

DSTG’s media release including quotes attributable to Chief Defence Scientist Prof Tanya Monro may be viewed at: defence.gov.au/news-events/releases/2026-02-25/australia-accelerate-counter-drone-research-droneshield.

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