Aerobotix and ASA announce partnership on hypersonic missiles

US defence robotics company Aerobotix and Automated Solutions Australia (ASA) have announced a robotic automation international partnership between the two companies for the development, testing and manufacturing of hypersonic missiles. The partnership follows the 2021 signing of the AUKUS security pact between the US, UK and Australian governments, which includes provisions for the allies to work together on hypersonic and counter-hypersonic capabilities.

The companies say the Aerobotix–ASA collaboration will enable the Australian defence sector and Australian defence contractors to more easily access both companies’ expertise in automation. The two companies became acquainted through their mutual capabilities in the robotic coating automation industry and are now working together to pursue projects for which a sovereign presence is required. 

“We’ll work with the US State Department for approval of any technology transfer for ASA,” said Josh Tuttle, Aerobotix Business Development Manager. “We’ll also help ASA in other ways. For example, we can save them years of costly development work by sharing how to robotically spray FIREX RX-2390 Thermal Protection System coatings for missile manufacturing.”

Aerobotix and ASA are both turn-key robotic integration companies with specialised capabilities in the precise application of paints and performance coatings. Aerobotix has accumulated invaluable experience in the use of robotics to scan, sand, measure and paint hypersonic missiles on multiple successful missile programs. ASA’s relationship with FANUC has resulted in the installation of more than 100 FANUC painting robots in Australia.

“Aerobotix has already deployed several production robotic systems for hypersonics,” said Nathan Jones, ASA General Manager. “They’re even making critical test parts for programs that haven’t had time to build production facilities. Their willingness to support our company, and Australia, is going to significantly reduce costs, schedule delays and program risk.”

 With 20 years of robotic coating automation experience in Australia, ASA says it is uniquely positioned to provide sovereign capability and assist in the rapid development of hypersonic capability on Australian shores.

Image caption: ASA General Manager Nathan Jones.