The German defense company-manufacturer of reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicles Quantum-Systems recently announced it was awarded two contracts under DEF129-SUAS, formerly known as Land 129 Phase 4B, totaling AUD $90 million (approximately 60.68 million dollars USA).
It is about the supply of reconnaissance drones Vector/Scoprion with the option of vertical take-off and landing. The first contract provides for the direct purchase of unmanned aerial vehicles (deliveries are expected to begin a little less than a year later, in April 2025). The second contract, in turn, concerns training, delivery, logistics, maintenance, support, etc. Delivery will begin April 2025 with support services continuing into 2031. The number of drones Australia will receive under this contract has not been disclosed.
Read more: Ukrainian Warriors to Receive More 105 Vector Reconnaissance UAVs and Service Support in The Country
Quantum-Systems Australia, which opened a new production facility earlier this year in March, will take an active part in the execution of the contract. It is estimated that up to 50 new jobs could be created within five years.
David Sharpin, Chief Executive Officer of Quantum-Systems Inc. said they in the company "will continue to actively identify further opportunities for Australian industry, reinforcing … dedication to nurturing local talent and enhancing the nation's defense capabilities" as well as that they "are honored to be selected by the Commonwealth of Australia to equip Army combat teams with ... advanced sUAS that will provide them with the enhanced situational awareness and increased force protection they require."
We will remind that Vector type reconnaissance drones by Quantum-Systems have been in service with the Defense Forces of Ukraine since 2022. During this time, these unmanned aerial vehicles have undergone improvements based on the experience of their operation by the Ukrainian military in difficult combat conditions.
In April of this year, it became known about the opening of a new manufacturing plant of the company Quantum-Systems in Ukraine. This enterprise will be engaged, among other things, in the production of UAVs. It is known that approximately 100 people will work at the enterprise by the end of the year. At this time, it is planned to invest in the development of production up to six million euros within two years.
In May 2024, Quantum-Systems announced plans to upgrade Vector drones. In particular, it is expected to increase the autonomy from 3 to 4 hours and also to improve the operation in conditions of strong interference and provide a new payload. The Scorpion UAV should also receive similar improvements.
As Defense Express reported, in June, 2024 Quantum Systems announced that they have secured a contract for the supply of their Vector reconnaissance drones with the Romanian Ministry of Defense.
Read more: Ukraine Will Produce Parts and Assemble German Vector UAVs
