Researchers in West Australia have been awarded a $200,000 government grant to develop an innovative “underwater Wi-Fi” system. This initiative aims to enhance communication capabilities for the nation’s defence personnel, providing them with a significant advantage in challenging environments. The project will involve a collaboration between Proteus Maritime, a Perth-based company, and Edith Cowan University.
The funding comes from the Defence and Research Teaming grant, issued by the state government. According to Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia, this new undersea mesh system is expected to revolutionise communication beneath the surface. By enabling devices to connect directly with one another, rather than relying on a central hub, the mesh will create a more robust and reliable communication network.
Currently, standard radio-frequency communications used by Australian defence forces face limitations, as radio waves cannot penetrate water. The proposed underwater Wi-Fi system aims to overcome these challenges, significantly improving communication between submarines, subsea drones, and various sensors. This technology could also have broader applications, potentially aiding scientific research and search and rescue missions.
Minister Papalia highlighted the strategic importance of the technology, stating, “This will potentially give our submarines and sea drones the upper hand with a clear line of communication even in hostile waters.” He expressed pride in the achievements of local businesses and researchers while emphasising the government’s commitment to investing in the defence sector to promote growth.
Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson echoed these sentiments, describing the initiative as a “game changer” for establishing reliable undersea communication pathways. He pointed out that this funding exemplifies the government’s strategy to position West Australia at the forefront of innovative technologies.
The concept of underwater Wi-Fi was initially developed during the Exercise Western Dawn Innovation Program in 2024, where it received recognition as the overall winner. Following this success, the developers submitted their proposal to a competitive grant process managed by the Defence Science Centre at Defence West. An independent panel assessed the submissions based on criteria such as novelty, feasibility, value for money, effectiveness, and collaboration.
This initiative reflects a growing trend toward advanced communication technologies in the defence sector, with the potential to significantly enhance operational capabilities. As the project progresses, it will be closely monitored for its impact on both military and scientific endeavours.
