From space operations specialists to developers of electro-optics solutions for the Australian Defence Force, South Australia’s world-class defence and aerospace companies will showcase the breadth of our leading innovations and technical expertise at Avalon 2025.

Defence SA is leading a record South Australian contingent to the premier aerospace and defence exposition, with over 60 defence and space businesses, research and education organisations exhibiting on the South Australian – The Defence State stand.

South Australian businesses will showcase cutting-edge capabilities across advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence and cyber security through to space services and products.

Local companies will be joined by the state’s three universities and the Defence Innovation Partnership – the South Australian Government’s catalyst for defence-relevant research – highlighting the state’s defence, space and R&D capabilities to decision makers from around the globe.

South Australia’s participation at Avalon has grown significantly since Defence SA first led a delegation to the event in 2011, when 12 companies joined the stand.

Defence SA CEO Matt Opie said this growth is a testament to the capability building within South Australia’s defence and space industries.

“This year’s delegation to Avalon demonstrates the innovation and expertise being nurtured locally to build the nation’s sovereign capabilities across the defence and space domains,” he said.

“South Australia’s defence industry plays a leading role in building and sustaining the nation’s defence capabilities, and we are proud of our history in contributing to the supply chains of some the Australia’s most complex Defence projects.

“We are also home to a dynamic space industry delivering game-changing space technologies and services.

“Avalon provides South Australian companies with a high-impact platform to connect with the Department of Defence and the broader defence community, establishing partnerships and developing important supply chain opportunities.”

Saber Astronautics on upward trajectory

Exhibiting on the Defence State stand, South Australian company Saber Astronautics will highlight its cutting-edge space mission operations and space domain awareness technology and services, including its award-winning SDA Space Cockpit Battle Management System (SBMS).

Already deployed by space commands globally, including the US Space Force and their Space Deltas, the advanced system plays a critical role in space domain awareness, missile warning, GPS constellation protection and space warfare operations.

Saber Astronautics Head of Business Development Maria Xygkaki said Avalon is a strategic opportunity to reinforce the company’s leading role in the Australian space sector, while engaging with industry leaders and fostering collaborations that drive innovation and growth.

“Saber’s presence at Avalon is essential to showcasing our expertise and capabilities in space mission operations to key stakeholders in the aerospace and defence industries,” Ms Xygkaki said.

“We look forward to engaging with industry leaders, defence organisations and potential partners to explore collaboration opportunities and highlight how Saber’s advanced technologies can contribute to the future of secure and efficient space operations.”

 

An optimal opportunity for Norseld Photonics

South Australia’s Norseld Photonics is also participating on the Defence State stand. As a leading provider of precision optical and laser solutions in Australia, the company has partnered with Defence companies on several projects ranging from space optics through to infra-red thermal cameras.

At Avalon, the company will explore how it can meet the future demands of the nation’s Air Force in the electro-optics space, according to CEO Peter Shute.

“Through our recent acquisition of BAES Photonics, Norseld Photonics is well placed to support the maintenance, repair, overhaul and upgrade of electro-optics solutions for Australian Defence Force aircraft,” Mr Shute said.

“Avalon gives us the opportunity to consolidate the work we are doing in electro-optics and engage influencers and decision makers in one place.”

Visitors can find the South Australia – The Defence State in Hall 3, Stand 3M25, at Avalon 2025.

View a full list of exhibitors on the South Australia – The Defence State stand.