Australia’s $1.3B Counter-Drone Initiative: EOS and Leidos Join Forces Under Project LAND 156

Electro Optic Systems (EOS), a prominent Australian defense technology company, has officially joined forces with Leidos Australia in a landmark collaboration under Project LAND 156, a $1.3 billion initiative spearheaded by the Australian Defence Force (ADF). This ambitious project is designed to bolster Australia’s national defense capabilities against the growing threat posed by small uncrewed aerial systems (sUAS), commonly referred to as drones. As drone technology becomes increasingly accessible and sophisticated, the potential for misuse—particularly in military and security contexts—has escalated. Project LAND 156 represents a strategic response to this evolving threat landscape, aiming to establish a comprehensive and integrated system capable of detecting, tracking, and neutralizing hostile drones before they can inflict damage or gather intelligence.

Slinger. Photo: EOS

The scope of Project LAND 156 is expansive and forward-looking. It encompasses the development and deployment of advanced command and control systems, high-performance sensors, and a suite of effectors—technologies designed to actively counter and disable drone threats. These components will be integrated into a cohesive operational framework that enables rapid response and real-time decision-making. The project is not merely about acquiring hardware; it is about creating a layered and adaptive defense architecture that can evolve alongside the threats it is designed to counter. This includes the ability to operate in diverse environments, from urban settings to remote military installations, and to respond to both isolated drone incursions and coordinated swarm attacks.

EOS’s contribution to this project is both strategic and technological. The company will supply its cutting-edge remote weapon system known as Slinger, specifically engineered for counter-drone operations. Slinger is a compact, high-precision platform capable of detecting, tracking, and engaging small aerial targets with remarkable accuracy. It integrates advanced electro-optic sensors with a stabilized weapon mount, allowing for effective engagement even in dynamic and challenging conditions. The system is designed to be mounted on a variety of platforms, including vehicles and fixed installations, providing flexibility in deployment. EOS will manufacture Slinger at its state-of-the-art facility in Canberra, where the company has invested heavily in automation, robotics, and quality control to ensure consistent performance and reliability.

Before full-scale deployment, Slinger will undergo rigorous testing in limited production batches. These trials will assess the system’s operational effectiveness, durability, and integration with other components of the LAND 156 architecture. Feedback from these evaluations will inform potential refinements and enhancements, ensuring that the final product meets the demanding standards of the ADF. If successful, these initial batches could pave the way for larger procurement orders beginning in 2026, marking a significant milestone in Australia’s defense modernization efforts.

Beyond its technological contributions, EOS is also playing a pivotal role in strengthening Australia’s domestic defense industry. The company has emphasized the importance of local manufacturing and supply chain participation, committing to involve over 100 Australian companies in the production and support of the Slinger system. This approach not only ensures economic benefits for local communities but also enhances national resilience by reducing dependence on foreign suppliers. By cultivating a robust ecosystem of skilled labor, specialized components, and logistical support within Australia, EOS is helping to build a sustainable foundation for future defense projects.

The involvement of so many domestic companies also reflects a broader strategic vision: to position Australia as a leader in defense innovation and manufacturing. By investing in local capabilities, the country can respond more swiftly to emerging threats, adapt technologies to its unique operational needs, and maintain greater control over critical defense assets. This vision aligns with the ADF’s long-term goals of self-reliance and strategic autonomy, particularly in an era where geopolitical tensions and technological disruptions are reshaping the global security landscape.

Leidos Australia, as the prime contractor for Project LAND 156, brings extensive experience in systems integration, cybersecurity, and defense logistics. Their partnership with EOS is a testament to the collaborative spirit driving this initiative. Together, the two companies are combining their respective strengths to deliver a solution that is not only technologically advanced but also operationally viable and strategically aligned with Australia’s defense priorities. Leidos will oversee the integration of various subsystems, ensuring that the command and control infrastructure, sensors, and effectors work seamlessly together. This integration is critical to achieving the project’s goal of a unified and responsive counter-drone capability.

The strategic importance of Project LAND 156 cannot be overstated. As drones become more prevalent in both civilian and military contexts, the ability to defend against them is no longer optional—it is essential. Hostile actors can use drones for surveillance, disruption, or even direct attacks, exploiting their small size, maneuverability, and low cost. Traditional air defense systems are often ill-suited to counter these threats, which require rapid detection and precise engagement. LAND 156 addresses this gap by providing a tailored solution that leverages modern technologies and operational insights.

Moreover, the project serves as a model for future defense initiatives, demonstrating how public-private partnerships can drive innovation and deliver tangible results. By aligning government objectives with industry capabilities, Australia is creating a defense ecosystem that is agile, responsive, and future-proof. The collaboration between EOS and Leidos exemplifies this approach, showcasing how shared expertise and mutual commitment can yield outcomes that benefit national security and industrial development alike.

In the broader context of global defense trends, Project LAND 156 positions Australia at the forefront of counter-drone technology. Many countries are grappling with similar challenges, and Australia’s proactive stance could serve as a blueprint for others. The integration of advanced sensors, AI-driven command systems, and precision effectors represents the cutting edge of modern warfare, where speed, accuracy, and adaptability are paramount. By investing in these capabilities now, Australia is not only protecting its assets but also shaping the future of defense strategy.

As the project progresses, continued collaboration, innovation, and evaluation will be key to its success. The initial deployment of Slinger and other components will provide valuable data and insights, informing future iterations and enhancements. Stakeholders across government, industry, and academia will need to maintain open channels of communication, ensuring that the system evolves in response to operational feedback and technological advancements. This iterative approach will help maintain the relevance and effectiveness of the counter-drone capability over time.

Project LAND 156 is more than a defense initiative—it is a statement of intent. It reflects Australia’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty, investing in its people, and leading in technological innovation. Through the combined efforts of EOS, Leidos Australia, and a vast network of domestic partners, the country is building a defense capability that is not only formidable but also emblematic of its strategic vision. As threats continue to evolve, so too must the systems designed to counter them. With LAND 156, Australia is taking a decisive step forward, ensuring that it remains prepared, protected, and proactive in the face of an uncertain future.