UK and Australia Deepen Radar Technology Ties as Defence Minister Tours Indo-Pacific

UK Ministry of Defence Building

Image: UK MoD © Crown Copyright

The UK and Australia have agreed to strengthen cooperation on advanced radar technology, marking a new step in their expanding defence partnership. Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard signed the agreement in Canberra this week, according to a UK Ministry of Defence statement, as he began a tour of Australia and New Zealand.

Radar Deal Signed in Canberra

QinetiQ and CEA Technologies signed a statement of intent covering Active Electronically Scanned Array radar systems. Governments and industry from both nations will collaborate on the technology, which already equips Australian forces and helps UK forces track evolving threats. The agreement builds on June’s Australia-UK Ministerial Consultations and aims to strengthen supply chains and open export markets.

Pollard and Australian Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy visited CEA Technologies staff working on the radar programme. Pollard commented that the deal shows industry stepping up and trust between the nations deepening. QinetiQ Group Chief Executive Steve Wadey added that current conflicts highlight the growing pressure on air defences.

Wider AUKUS Context

The radar deal sits within the broader AUKUS partnership, which has already created jobs across both countries. Investment linked to AUKUS is expected to generate more than 10,000 jobs in Western Australia and a further 10,000 in South Australia. Since July 2024, more than 3,000 jobs have emerged across UK nuclear sites, with SSN-AUKUS submarine construction set to add 7,000 more.

Pollard will travel next to New Zealand, visiting Devonport Naval Base and discussing a potential maritime partnership that could deliver up to 1,000 jobs and NZ$300 million in investment.

Learn more on the UK MoD website

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