A $20,000 drone can now shut down a $20 billion airport. What are we doing about it?

The character of conflict has changed. Across Ukraine’s front lines and in the congested airspace above the Middle East, small unmanned aerial systems have become decisive instruments of war, disruption, and deterrence. Cheap, disposable, and difficult to attribute, they can overwhelm expensive air defences, strike critical infrastructure, and signal intent — all while preserving plausible deniability.

For Australia’s defence and national security community, this is not a distant challenge. The lessons playing out in real time are directly relevant to the ADF’s force design, to the NSW industrial base, and to the research programs underway in our universities and laboratories.

Join the Defence Innovation Network for a focused Industry Forum bringing together Defence, industry leaders, and researchers to examine what the drone revolution means for global security - and how Australia, our allies, and our local innovation ecosystem can contribute practical solutions. Expert context-setting from those close to the conflicts, a high-quality panel discussion, and lightning-pitch research presentations from NSW universities.

Program

11:00 Arrival & Registration

11:30 Program start

Keynote talk - CAPT Fred C. Smith, US Navy (Ret.), Adjunct Fellow, Macquarie University - The evolution of drone warfare from a naval officer's perspective…revolution or evolution?
Panel discussion- Defence, industry and research perspectives
DIN university / Industry capability pitches
Lunch & networking
Laboratory tours - Simulation Hub and Drone Hub & Flight Arena

15.00 Program ends

Registration details

For Speakers:

Researchers and companies who wish to deliver a pitch on novel capabilities in the areas outlined below are invited to register their interest by 12:00 PM, 1 May 2026.

Please note that speakers are requested to attend the event in person to maximise engagement and networking opportunities.

For Attendees:

If you wish to attend the event, please register your interest by 12:00 PM on 15 May 2026.

Please ensure you provide your full name and professional email when registering, so DIN can verify your affiliation. Further event details will be shared with approved registrants after registration closes.

Conditions of entry

This event is open to academics, Defence, and defence-related industry representatives only. DIN reserves the right to cancel registrations or refuse entry without prior notice.

Contact the host of DIN Industry Forum: Drones & Counter-Drones - A New Strategic Reality

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