CADR-RAS 2024 Showcase

Last week, the Centre for Advanced Defence Research - Robotics and Autonomous Systems (CADR-RAS) hosted its 2024 Showcase in Adelaide. The event brought together leading researchers from 11 participating universities, Defence researchers and Defence force personnel.

The 120 attendees heard keynote presentations from Defence and Security Institute Executive Director Prof. Michael Webb, Dr Margaret Law from Defence Trailblazer, followed by a lively panel discussion chaired by DSTG's Chief Land and Integrated Force - Dr. Shane Canney, where the audience heard directly from Defence RAS leaders COL David Robertson - Director RICO, WGCDR Paul Hay - Deputy Director JERICHO and Mr Ryan Pope from NAVY's WIN unit.

All 22 CADR-RAS sponsored research projects were on display for the RAS community to engage in direct conversation with the research teams. 

CADR-RAS Centre Manager, Gregory Davis stated: “The Centre brings together such a diverse range of expertise. Robotics and Autonomous Systems is not a single discipline effort. Today we have leading academics from not only Computer Science and Engineering, but we see many projects focused on sensing, imaging, psychology, education and training.”

The research on display contained key pillars of Robotics and Autonomous Systems, the Intelligent Machine, Machine-Machine Teaming and Human-Machine Teaming.

Defence and Security Institute Executive Director Prof. Michael Webb said: “CADR-RAS promotes exploration and development of key concepts and technologies that will enable and facilitate the effective use of this autonomy by the Australian Defence Forces.”
Since its inception in 2022, CADR-RAS has issued 25 research contracts (including three extensions) which have been worked on by over 80 researchers across 11 Australian universities.