Australia-based SYPAQ Systems is sending low-cost drones made out of cardboard to Ukrainian forces.
Sending paper drones to Ukraine is part of the military aid package announced by the Australian Ministry of Defense in July 2022.
The equipment was developed by SYPAQ in partnership with the Australian Army and cost just US$ 1.1 million. Canberra did not say the specifications or the number of systems that will be sent to Kiev.
According to the Australian company, Corvo is a low-cost fixed-wing disposable drone with a flight range of 120 km.
In Australia, the device serves in the Army in the role of delivering supplies and light equipment in remote areas. The equipment is shipped to the soldiers packaged and can be easily assembled with simple tools, according to the manufacturer.
“OPPDS is an Australian capability that will help the Ukrainian people defend their country, and is proof of the world-leading autonomous systems capabilities in Australian industry,” said Amanda Holt, CEO of SYPAQ.
Following feedback from end-users in Ukraine, the system has also been adapted for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
“It is an honour to be supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces,” SYPAQ CEO Amanda Holt said adding that “PPDS is an Australian capability that will help the Ukrainian people defend their country, and is proof of the world-leading autonomous systems capabilities in Australian industry.
PPDS is being manufactured at SYPAQ’s Defence Autonomy Centre of Excellence in Fisherman’s Bend, Melbourne, using components from SYPAQ’s Australian supply chain.
“This capability is the result of an innovation journey with Army and the Defence Innovation Hub, and demonstrates the importance of collaboration between Defence and industry on capability development,” Holt added.
