Australia ’ s space industry is small but is growing as one of the most active space startup sectors globally . NASA and the Australian government have expressed support for the take-up of space-based services for communications , agricultural , geospatial , and navigational purposes . In addition , the forward defense investment plan has made provision for approximately $ 5.5 billion in space-related capabilities and needs suppliers for these areas .
In Australia alone , 1,200 + drone operators rapidly develop technologies and services that support the drone ecosystem . The drone industry is estimated to contribute A $ 5.5 billion to the Australian economy , rising to A $ 14.5 billion ( US $ 10.3bn ) by 2040 as Australia plans to invest up to A $ 1.3 billion ( US $ 926m ) to develop small , unmanned air vehicles ( UAVs ) to improve maritime awareness .
The Loyal Wingman uncrewed aircraft is an example of the developing industry in Australia and is the result of a collaboration between the Air Force and Boeing Australia . More than 35 Australian companies have contributed to the development of this aircraft , integrating autonomous systems and artificial intelligence .
These investments present opportunities for Washington exporters to serve and contribute to Australia ’ s growing UAV / UAS industry .
Similarly , New Zealand also presents opportunities to foster growth in the aerospace industry . Mark Rocket , President of the industry group Aerospace Christchurch aims to attract new businesses to New Zealand to make Christchurch New Zealand ’ s aerospace hub by 2025 . The New Zealand Space Agency funded the Christchurch Aerospace Sector Plan , an important catalyst for Christchurch ’ s economic growth . Their first major project is developing the largest unmanned aircraft built in the Southern Hemisphere . Southeast Asia
APRIL | MAY 2021 ISSUE NO . 26 45