Signal Australia Launches 2026 Defence Innovation, Science and Technology Strategy

Summary

Australia's Department of Defence formally launched the 2026 Defence Innovation, Science and Technology Strategy on August 4, 2026, alongside the 2026 Australian Defence Science, Technology and Research Summit in Adelaide, setting out a decade-long roadmap for turning research into battlefield capability. The strategy identifies six priority areas: long-range fires and hypersonic weapons, high-energy lasers, autonomous systems, quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, and undersea warfare. On quantum technology specifically, the strategy will support development of systems providing secure navigation and timing in GPS-denied environments, as well as advanced systems to counter drones and protect defence personnel and infrastructure. Defence Minister Richard Marles said the strategy would allow Australia to keep pace with rapid technological change and asymmetric warfare, stating that nations able to innovate and adopt new technologies faster would gain a 'decision advantage.' The strategy directs industry and research institutions to align development efforts with the six priorities. It is understood to align with AUKUS Pillar 2 advanced capability-sharing arrangements.