Australian soldiers will now have access to the Switchblade 300 drones, which have previously been used in the Ukraine War. The Australian government has announced that these precision loitering munitions, also known as “kamikaze” drones, will enhance the capabilities of the nation’s soldiers in dealing with threats. This marks the first time that drone weapons are being utilized by the Australian Defence Force, with previous drones primarily used for surveillance and intelligence gathering.
The acquisition of the Switchblade 300 drones expands the ADF’s arsenal of drones, including those capable of being armed. Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy MP emphasized that national security is a top priority for the government, and providing soldiers with critical capabilities to protect Australians and their interests is paramount.
The Switchblade drones are unique in that they can loiter in the air before directly attacking a target by crashing into it and exploding. Carried in the backpack of a soldier, these drones are deployed into the air where their wings expand, earning them the name “Switchblade.”
The Australian government highlights the effectiveness of drones, including loitering munitions, in combat scenarios, citing their use by Ukrainian forces against the Russian invasion. The introduction of the Switchblade drones demonstrates the government’s commitment to equipping the ADF with cutting-edge technologies to address evolving threats.
The ADF is expected to receive the first batch of Switchblade drones later this year, with plans to integrate them into service by 2025. While cost details have not been disclosed publicly, reports indicate that the U.S. government paid up to $80,000 for each Switchblade 300 drone delivered to Ukrainian forces.
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