USQ Research Joins Defense Industry Security Program

The University of Southern Queensland’s defense industry research efforts have been admitted to the Federal Government’s Defense Industry Security Program (DISP).

The membership demonstrates USQ’s strong ability to meet the domestic and international security requirements of Australia’s defense industry supply chain, a statement said.

DISP provides a framework for non-military organizations to work securely with defense assets and information, with USQ seeking to work in areas such as hypersonic propulsion systems, rocket fuel development, astrophysics, artificial vision and advanced materials.

Professor Peter Schubel of USQ’s Institute for Advanced Engineering and Space Sciences said membership would allow for deeper industry engagement for defense research projects.

Professor Schubel said: “Membership of DISP will foster greater collaboration between the University and defense entities in research programmes, as well as facilitate greater cooperation with private industry in Australia and in the countries allies.

“We have cutting-edge research capabilities that are attractive to the defense industry, including composites manufacturing, astronomical observatories, artificial intelligence and more.”

USQ is the site of unique infrastructure and equipment, including the Mount Kent Astronomical Observatory, a long-life hypersonic wind tunnel and rocket laboratory, as well as one of the world’s largest manufacturing and testing facilities for composite materials from Australia.

Professor Schubel said: “Joining confirms our demonstrated strength in security risk management, extensive training and comprehensive security policies.”

Image: University of Southern Queensland

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