South Australian defence technology company RFTEQ is partnering with Poland-based XY-Sensing to develop new security and electronic warfare technology for defence, security and critical infrastructure customers.

The companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore opportunities across advanced radio frequency, radar, sensing and mission-system technologies.

Their combined capabilities will support the development of next-generation sensing and monitoring solutions for drones and unmanned systems, border security and critical infrastructure protection.

The MOU was signed at MSPO, one of Europe’s largest military defence exhibitions, following a technology assessment workshop held last month.

RFTEQ Chief Executive Officer David Kinnaird said the agreement reinforced South Australia’s position as a hub for defence innovation and advanced manufacturing.

“This MOU marks an important step for RFTEQ and XY-Sensing, bringing together complementary expertise to accelerate innovation, expand market opportunities, and deliver advanced solutions for defence, security, and critical infrastructure customers,” Mr Kinnaird said.

“Through greater international engagement and technology collaboration, we can help drive economic growth, strengthen sovereign capability, and contribute to a more resilient and competitive Australian defence ecosystem.”

The partnership will support RFTEQ’s expansion in South Australia as demand grows for advanced detection and jamming platforms manufactured in the state.

RFTEQ plans to recruit 30 additional employees over the next 12 months by expanding its specialist engineering, production, integration and support teams. The company expects its current growth to create a further 150 positions over the next four years.

The company’s expansion will strengthen local sovereign capability, creating high-value domestic manufacturing jobs and new export opportunities in Europe. It will also support the broader Australian defence industry through increased supply chain activity, technical collaboration and delivery capacity.

With the state’s defence industry generating a record $2 billion in economic activity last financial year, this new partnership builds on South Australia’s internationally recognised defence research and development capabilities.

Over the coming months, RFTEQ and XY-Sensing will evaluate potential initiatives, engage with industry and government stakeholders, and explore opportunities in domestic and international markets.