Guardian Angel UGV Passes Live-Fire Test
Thales Australia has successfully built and tested a new uncrewed ground vehicle (UGV) designed to help keep Australian soldiers out of danger.
Known as Guardian Angel, the eight-wheeled prototype completed a live-fire trial at Thales Australia’s Lithgow facility in regional New South Wales. The vehicle was designed, built and tested in just six weeks through a partnership with Australian companies Chaos 1 and W & E Platt.
The project highlights the strength of Australia’s defence industry and its ability to develop advanced technology locally. It also demonstrates how Australian businesses can work together to quickly deliver practical defence solutions.
The Guardian Angel takes its name from Australian soldiers who protected their teammates by watching over them in dangerous situations during operations in the Middle East. In a similar role, the vehicle is designed to take on high-risk tasks instead of putting people in harm’s way.
The uncrewed vehicle can operate alongside Thales Australia’s Bushmaster, Hawkei and StrikeMaster protected vehicles, giving the Australian Defence Force more options during missions. It can be used for a range of jobs, including carrying supplies, evacuating injured personnel, providing fire support, scouting ahead and transporting equipment.
Its modular design means it can be adapted for different missions by changing the equipment it carries. The prototype is also fitted with a remote weapon system developed by W & E Platt, allowing it to engage targets without exposing soldiers to direct danger. A slim body improves mobility in tight spaces, while secure communications help operators stay connected.
Andrew Downes, Vice President of Land at Thales Australia, said the project showcased the company’s expertise in vehicle design, manufacturing and systems integration. He said uncrewed ground vehicles can operate in dangerous environments, giving troops greater protection while extending the military’s operational reach.
Chaos 1 founder and chief executive Benny Johanson said moving from an early concept to a live-fire demonstration in only six weeks proved what Australian industry could achieve when working together at speed.
W & E Platt director Allan Platt said the project showed how Australian companies could rapidly turn new ideas into defence-ready equipment through local manufacturing and close collaboration.
The successful trial marks an important step towards future versions of the Guardian Angel and reinforces Lithgow’s growing role as a centre for advanced defence manufacturing in Australia.
