Australian Army Phantoms Fly into Service

27 Agustus 2018

Phantom 4 UAV (photo : DJI)

The capability of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), including the DJI Phantom 4 and the Black Hornet, were on display today at Randwick Barracks as the Australian Army continues to roll out the technology across the country.

Sydney-based personnel of the 17th Combat Service Support Brigade (17 CSS BDE), today received a DJI Phantom 4 UAS as part of the Army’s plan to issue 350 UAS, with each unit receiving up to three systems.

Colonel Gabby Follet, Acting Commander of the 17 CSS BDE said the DJI Phantom 4 UAS would greatly increase the Army’s capability to gather information and successfully complete tasks.

“This technology will better enable Army to gather airborne imagery of training to assist with improving training methods, conduct site surveys for the placement of camps and other temporary facilities, assess damage to buildings, as well as assist with environmental protection in the field,” Colonel Follet said.

“Issuing the DJI Phantom 4 to soldiers at all levels will change the application of tactical robotic technology and provide our troops with better situational awareness that will keep us informed from the air to make critical decisions on the ground in any tactical situation.

“I am excited by the opportunities UAS technology presents to our Brigade to improve the way we conduct our work.”

The DJI Phantom 4, a commercially available system, will be used in training to increase soldiers’ UAS literacy and is one component of the wider UAS program for the Australian Army.

Along with the DJI Phantom 4, 17 CSS BDE showcased other Army modernisation initiatives at the event today, including the Black Hornet 3 nano UAS, the Enhanced F88 Rifle, PMV Bushmaster and G-Wagon vehicles.

(Aus DoD)