Australia LAND 156 Counter-UAS

Project LAND 156 is an Australian Defence Force program to acquire a complete counter-small Uncrewed Aerial Systems (CsUAS) capability, integrating sensors like electro-optic, radars, acoustic, and thermal systems with command and control for cueing effectors including RF, electromagnetic, directed energy, and kinetic options to protect against drone threats. Launched in 2024, it is in the procurement and development phase, with Leidos Australia selected as systems integration partner under a AU$30-41 million contract in 2025, an industry panel established, and a successful live-fire demonstration during Exercise Southern Arrow 25 validating detection, tracking, and neutralization of small drones. From a defense-intelligence perspective, it holds strategic significance in countering rapidly evolving small drone threats seen in conflicts like Ukraine, enhancing ADF protection of personnel, assets, critical infrastructure, and supporting AUKUS integration amid global UAS proliferation.