Australia’s defence industry has taken a significant step forward with the official launch of the nation’s first suite of credit-ready Combat Systems Engineering Micro-credentials.

Developed under the Defence Trailblazer Industry Upskilling Program, the innovative suite of micro-credentials was co-created by the University of Adelaide, UNSW and Lockheed Martin Australia to strengthen Australia’s national security capabilities.

The program addresses a critical gap in formal qualification pathways for combat systems engineering in Australia and offers a strategic solution to rapidly upskill professionals in key defence technologies.

Defence Trailblazer’s Executive Director Dr Sanjay Mazumdar explained technological advancements are rapidly transforming the defence landscape and Australia’s defence capabilities must evolve to meet future challenges.

“The introduction of Defence Trailblazer’s Combat Systems Engineering Micro-credentials is a significant step forward in uplifting Australia’s defence industry,” he said.

“Our priority is ensuring Defence and industry professionals are equipped with the vital skills needed to develop the defence technologies of today and tomorrow.”

The program includes six micro-credentials covering foundational and advanced topics such as systems engineering, radar systems, command and control, C4ISREW systems and technology, understanding defence systems, and mission engineering. Delivered in a hybrid learning format, the courses offer flexibility for professionals to upskill at their own pace, either by completing individual modules or the full suite.

Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand’s Chief Executive Warren McDonald emphasized the importance of industry involvement in workforce development.

“It is incumbent on industry to continually grow the engineering talent pipeline to support the Australian Defence Force’s mission,” Mr McDonald said.

“Graduates of the Combat Systems Engineering Micro-credentials will be professionally trained and equipped with the key skills needed to integrate combat systems across air, sea, land, space, and cyber capabilities that protect Australia.”

The program is scaling up following a successful pilot in July 2024, which saw 59 industry professionals complete the initial courses. An additional 141 professionals are expected to complete the full suite by June 2026.

Visit the Defence Trailblazer website for more information on the Combat Systems Engineering Micro-credentials.