Innovative Aussie Tech: The Core of Red Ochre Labs

BAE Systems Australia has officially inaugurated Red Ochre Labs to cultivate innovative, leading-edge sovereign disruptive technologies that address the future necessities of the Australian Defence Force.

Red Ochre Labs is set to be a central point for cooperation among industry, Defence, and academia, building upon BAE Systems’ 65-year tradition of pioneering advanced technologies in Australia.

Although based in Victoria, the new establishment will connect research and development endeavors across BAE Systems’ various Australian locations.

At the core of Red Ochre Labs will be Australian air, land, sea, and cyber technologies, concentrating on autonomous systems, hypersonics, High Frequency Systems, electronic warfare, and Anti-Submarine Warfare capabilities through the Hunter Class Frigate initiative.

The name symbolizes the company’s dedication to reconciling with Australia’s First Nation peoples, as red ochre is a significant element of the Australian landscape.

BAE Systems Chief Technology Officer, Brad Yelland stated:
“The Australian Government has expressed clear expectations for novel, future-oriented technologies to assist the Australian Defence Force.

“By directing our R&D investment and utilizing Red Ochre Labs as a collaborative center, we can expedite the creation of effective technologies and quickly move on from those that are less successful.

“Our experience indicates that success leads to further achievements, and one exceptional technology can evolve into additional uses or lay the groundwork for an entirely new innovation.

“Achievement in developing new, Australian-manufactured technologies could also facilitate valuable export opportunities.

“Now, more than ever, investing in and cultivating Australian-made technologies carries the promise of substantial economic growth and fulfilling the technological demands of our defence forces.”