Deakin University has been awarded a $5.13 million contract from the Federal Government to continue the development of its cutting-edge augmented and virtual naval firefighting system for the Australian Defence Force.
Deakin University researchers will work with Kellogg, Brown & Root and FLAIM to build an immersive training system for naval firefighting that combines virtual reality, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence.
Defence Industry Minister Melissa Price said the investment could “significantly improve the ADF’s naval firefighting training capability”.
“Deakin University’s new system will provide the ADF with a more diverse and realistic range of naval firefighting and training options that could significantly improve learning outcomes and safety,” Minister Price continued.
“This investment highlights the innovative research and development that Australia’s sovereign industry is capable of producing and exporting.”
Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson the contract builds on Deakin’s international reputation for groundbreaking research and excellence.
“Deakin University has executed more than 165 contracts with the Australian Defence Department, highlighting the important role our region’s institutions can play in driving innovation and generating cutting-edge capability in support of the ADF,” Senator Henderson said.
“This contract follows the signing of the $1 billion agreement between Hanwha Defense Australia and the Morrison Government to produce Howitzers for the Australian Army, cementing our region’s position at the forefront of Australia’s defence industry for decades to come.”
