The UK and Australia have agreed to examine the integration of Australian radar technology into the UK Armed Forces.
A statement of intent signed in Canberra brings together the UK Ministry of Defence, Australia’s Department of Defence, British defense company QinetiQ, and Canberra-based CEA Technologies.
The cooperation will focus on active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar systems. These radars use electronically controlled beams to detect and track targets without physically moving the antenna.
AESA systems can support a range of missions, including air and missile defense, surveillance, and the simultaneous tracking of multiple targets.
Under the proposed framework, CEA Technologies would supply its locally developed radar technology, while QinetiQ would assist with integration, testing, and technical assurance within the UK defense sector.
CEA’s radar systems are already in service with the Australian Defence Force, including on Anzac-class frigates and in land-based air defense applications.
Indo-Pacific Defense Tour
The agreement was signed during UK Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard’s week-long visit to Australia and New Zealand. The trip focuses on defense manufacturing, supply-chain cooperation, and maritime security.
During his visit to Canberra, Pollard met Australian officials to discuss access to critical minerals and closer collaboration between the two countries’ defense industries.
He is also scheduled to visit the Henderson shipyard in Western Australia, a key facility supporting activities linked to the AUKUS submarine program.
Pollard will then travel to New Zealand for discussions on maritime capabilities, with planned visits to Devonport Naval Base, Rocket Lab, and uncrewed aircraft manufacturer SYOS Aerospace.
The talks are also expected to cover Babcock’s proposal to provide New Zealand with a variant of its Type 31 frigate.
