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Canberra-based defence technology company HighCom Limited (ASX: HCL) has secured a $9.81 million contract from the Australian Department of Defence for counter-drone products and support services, marking the company's first significant order in the rapidly growing counter small uncrewed aerial system (C-UAS) domain.
The contract, announced today, covers the supply of C-UAS products and associated support services in partnership with Denmark-based MyDefence AS.
The order comes just one week after the federal government announced up to $7 billion in counter-drone investment over the next decade under the Integrated Investment Program, with up to $22 billion allocated across drone, counter-drone and autonomous systems more broadly.
HighCom Technology's acting president Bede Galvin says the contract underscores the company's position as a supplier of advanced technologies and systems integrations to Defence.
“HighCom Technology is focused on the integration of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), counter-UAS (C-UAS) solutions and associated command and control systems, working in close collaboration with its sister division, HighCom Armor Systems," says Galvin.
"HighCom Armor Systems designs and manufactures specialist lightweight ballistic protection solutions, including its proprietary XTclave technology, supporting the company’s mission to ‘protect first and front-line responders’.
“We are proud to support Defence with proven, operationally relevant solutions and look forward to delivering this program in FY27.”
The contracted product delivery and receipt of the associated payment are expected to occur by June 2026.
MyDefence Group CEO Dan Hermansen says the contract represents a strategic step in the Danish company's long-term commitment to Australia and the Indo-Pacific region.
"MyDefence brings extensive operational experience in counter-UAS, with solutions developed and validated in real-world environments," says Hermansen.
"The partnership with HighCom Technology enables the delivery of these capabilities in an Australian context, combining global expertise with strong local support.
“MyDefence is committed to increasing its engagement in Australia, supporting the ADF through closer collaboration, local presence, and continued investment in the region.”
HighCom operates two key divisions - HighCom Armor which designs, manufactures, and supplies military and law enforcement customers with body armour, ballistic helmets and composite armour panels; and HighCom Technology which supplies Australian defence and security agencies with small uncrewed aerial systems (SUAS) and sensor payloads.
The deal announced today is a significant milestone for HighCom, which has been navigating a difficult period across its broader business.
The company's most recent half-year results for the six months ended 31 December 2025 showed revenue of $10.9 million, down 59 per cent from $26.6 million in the prior corresponding period.
HighCom reported an EBITDA loss of $5.4 million and a net loss after tax of $6.8 million for the half, with cash of $3 million on hand at the end of the period.
The company's HighCom Armor division was hurt by the US Government shutdown and tariff uncertainty, though HighCom Technology was noted to have performed well and delivered to plan.
HighCom raised $7 million via a share placement in February to shore up its balance sheet.
Shares in HighCom were trading almost 9 per cent higher at 18.5c at 11.20am (AEST).
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