In November 2023, the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA) released its first approach to market for the Mission Program on AusTender - ASCA Mission Co-design and Delivery. Industry and research partners were invited to respond to a request for proposal to help co-design and potentially deliver ASCA's first mission.
ASCA missions respond to strategically directed Defence priorities that align with Defence policy and strategy, and are endorsed by the Vice Chief of the Defence Force (VCDF). Missions are time limited, with clear performance targets and off-ramps where the technology ceases to be viable or affordable of Defence's needs change.
Problem Statement 1:
How might we penetrate and degrade advanced integrated air defence systems so that Defence can conduct effective long-range strike operations, taking into account speed and scale required to operate in congested and contested environments that is faster than a potential adversary’s ability to react?
Status update:
ASCA completed the co-design with 9 companies and following extensive consultation throughout Defence the procurement process ended with parties notified 30 October 2024. ASCA continues to progress with a suitable approach to the market to deliver the Mission intent for the modified minimum viable capability.