The Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA) announced Mission Syracuse in May 2025.

The Mission is focused on supporting Defence’s counter small uncrewed aerial system (CsUAS) capability.

It addresses the following problem statement: how might we provide viable sovereign effector options for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) integrated force capability optimised to mitigate the threats posed by small UAS?

Milestones

In April 2026, ASCA announced it had entered into contracts with two Australian organisations, AIM Defence and SYPAQ Systems, providing a combined $31.7 million (excluding GST) to strengthen sovereign counter‑drone technology for the ADF.

Funding will enable AIM Defence to further enhance the capability and combat readiness of its high-powered counter-drone laser system, Fractl, to counter individual and swarms of drones. This portable high energy laser system is capable of tracking objects as small as a 10-cent piece at more than 100kph and powerful enough to burn through steel.

SYPAQ Systems will build on their expertise in affordable, high performance uncrewed air vehicles to develop the Corvo Strike, an interceptor drone designed to track, target and destroy larger drones now commonly employed on battlefields.

In July 2026, ASCA announced its third contract with Electro Optic Systems (EOS) Defence Systems, valued at $5.7 million (excluding GST) to develop the R400 SLINGER CUAS capability.

The R400 SLINGER is an advanced, all-in-one remote weapon system capable of countering small and medium sized drones. Integrating an advanced laser-guided rocket and a machine gun, it provides a highly effective and flexible response to airborne threats.

This third contract brings the total investment under Mission Syracuse to $37.4 million (excluding GST) and forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to accelerate the development of sovereign counter-drone capabilities.

Mission Syracuse complements LAND 156 to deliver a comprehensive CsUAS capability system for the ADF that is able to detect, track, identify and neutralise adversaries through a comprehensive, layered and distributed defensive approach.

Background

The Request for Proposal opened on 15 May 2025 through AusTender – ASCA Misson Syracuse, and closed on 6 June. Contract awarding to be announced shortly.

A virtual marketing briefing for industry and academia occurred on 15 May 2025.