Defence Trailblazer: proof-of-concept phase completed!
Northrop Grumman Australia, in partnership with IPAS at the University of Adelaide under the Defence Trailblazer program, has successfully completed the proof-of-concept phase of its Hollow Core Optical Fibre project.
The project focuses on developing hollow-core fibres designed for fibre optic gyroscopes (FOGs), critical components in modern navigation systems that can operate independently of GPS. The aim is to enhance the performance and long-term accuracy of these systems, contributing to Australia鈥檚 sovereign defence capabilities.
The collaboration is led by Dr Erik Schartner (IPAS, University of Adelaide) and Dr Dushy Tissa (Northrop Grumman Australia), with contributions from Prof Heike Ebendorff-Heidepriem, Dr Anoop Sunny, and the ANFF-Optofab Adelaide team, whose expertise and facilities were essential to the project鈥檚 success.
The completion of this phase was celebrated at the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition 2025, highlighting the importance of partnerships between industry, government, and research institutions in developing a resilient sovereign defence ecosystem. The next stage will focus on transitioning this technology from research to commercialisation, creating opportunities for South Australian suppliers and further strengthening Australia鈥檚 industrial capability.
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