Black Sky Aerospace has clinched the title of Aerospace Business of the Year during the recent Australian Defence Industry Awards evening.
Organised by Defence Connect, the gala celebrated various industry luminaries, giving away 30 accolades. The esteemed occasion also featured an insightful speech by the Ukrainian Ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko.
The event spotlighted other notable award recipients such as individuals from DroneShield, Northrop Grumman Australia, and defence contractor Rohde & Schwarz Australia. Corporative honours were received by entities like Downer Defence, Babcock, and archTIS.
Liam Garman, Defence Connect’s chief editor, emphasised the event’s intent: to honour transformative figures in the Defence realm. He applauded the sector’s dynamism, highlighting its contributors who’ve facilitated advanced military technologies and estate management.
The 2023 Defence Industry Awards featured an impressive 144 finalists, all vying for 29 distinct individual and group distinctions. A pinnacle Excellence Award was reserved for the most outstanding contributor.
Esteemed educator, Dr. Marian-Andrei Rizoiu from the University of Technology, Sydney, clinched the top recognition after previously securing the Academic of the Year accolade.
Sponsors who backed the event comprised leading partners such as KBR, JLL, Investment NSW, Ventia, and the Indigenous Defence & Infrastructure Consortium.
Over 800 defence industry members present at the event listened keenly to Ambassador Myroshnychenko. He underscored the robust Australia-Ukraine alliance, particularly pertinent given Australia’s support for Ukraine amidst Russian aggression. Australia’s contributions include providing 120 locally-produced Bushmaster mobility vehicles, totaling to around $890 million in support.
Steve Kuper, of Momentum Markets, shared his pride in hosting Ambassador Myroshnychenko, highlighting the essence of self-reliant defence sectors for preserving national security. The ambassador’s presence, flanked by diplomats from Canberra, underscored the awards’ high regard.
The evening’s ambiance was further uplifted by the comedic relief provided by renowned Australian humorist Mark Humphries. Attendees also relished the networking opportunities, engaging with defence industry frontrunners and contemporaries.
The Australian Defence Industry Awards has etched its name as the year’s must-watch awards event. It offers unparalleled acknowledgment to defence industry stalwarts, ranging from executive leadership to SMEs, academia, and diverse individual contributors.
Acknowledging its transformative role in defence capability enhancement, the awards stand as a coveted honour for both individuals and entities. Defence Connect extended its gratitude to its collaborators, including key sponsors like KBR, JLL, Investment NSW, Ventia, Indigenous Defence & Infrastructure Consortium, and many more, who collectively made the event a resounding success.
