NIOA and AeroVironment, Inc. have announced a strategic partnership to support the introduction into service, sustainment and future growth of advanced loitering munitions capabilities across Australia and New Zealand.

The partnership establishes a framework for cooperation across the AeroVironment portfolio, including the combat-proven Switchblade family of precision loitering munitions, and positions NIOA as AeroVironment's local partner for distribution, customer engagement, support and long-term capability development.

The agreement reflects a shared commitment to supporting Australian Defence Force requirements and exploring opportunities for local support, sustainment and future industrial capability development.

Ben James, Executive Vice President of NIOA Australia and New Zealand, said the partnership combined Australian strategic munitions leadership with world-leading technology.

"The Australian GWEO Plan identified the acquisition and introduction into service of Switchblade as a key objective,” he said.

“Combining NIOA’s deep expertise in strategic munitions supply, manufacturing and support with AeroVironment’s global leadership in loitering munitions and autonomous systems technology represents a significant win for both the ADF and in the integration of Australian and US industrial bases."

Justin McFarlin, Vice President International Business Development, AeroVironment, said: "The operational success of loitering munitions is driving demand for these capabilities around the world, including Australia.

“Through our partnership with NIOA, we are combining AeroVironment's combat-proven technologies with a trusted Australian defence industry partner to support customers, strengthen sovereign capability outcomes and establish the foundations for long-term growth across the region.”

The companies will also explore opportunities to expand support and industrial capability in Australia as demand for autonomous systems and loitering munitions continues to grow.

· Visit the NIOA stand #4G16 Land Forces 2026 from October 6-8.

NIOA Group Managing Director and CEO Rob Nioa (left) and Justin McFarlin, Vice President International Business Development – AeroVironment, ink the strategic partnership agreement at the Land Forces International Defence Exposition in Perth.