Bushmaster truck gains drone-killing capabilities in Australia

Thales Australia has teamed up with Dedrone by Axon to upgrade its Bushmaster armored vehicle with new technology that can detect and counter hostile drones. This upgrade allows the Bushmaster to operate effectively in combat zones where drones are becoming a major threat. The Bushmaster vehicle is now equipped to track and neutralize drones while it is in motion. This advancement is crucial for enhancing the safety of soldiers on the front lines. Thales Australia CEO Jeff Connolly stated that this upgrade is aimed at adapting the vehicle to modern warfare, particularly lessons learned from conflicts like the ongoing situation in Ukraine. Dedrone's counter-drone technology is already used in 33 countries, including six G-7 nations. This technology helps defend against small to large drones. Remarkably, existing Bushmaster vehicles can be retrofitted with this new capability, providing a practical solution for military forces worldwide. Currently, about 1,300 Bushmasters are operational in nine countries, with a solid reputation for protecting soldiers in various combat conditions, especially in the Middle East and Ukraine. The addition of counter-drone capabilities further strengthens its position as a top choice for military mobility. Recent tests near Thales’ facility in Bendigo confirmed the effectiveness of the new system in realistic combat scenarios, showing its potential to change battlefield dynamics. The overall upgrade to the Bushmaster includes improvements like digital dashboards, enhanced armor, and better engine performance. Aaditya Devarakonda, CEO of Dedrone by Axon, expressed excitement about this collaboration, noting it enhances the mobile capabilities of soldiers during combat while improving their awareness against drone threats.