Austest Laboratories provides comprehensive, accredited aerospace and defence test services from a single independent location – simplifying logistics, timelines, and costs. As a JOSCAR Level 2 accredited laboratory, we are fully prequalified to support prime contractors and tiered suppliers across a wide range of test programs.
Supporting the Defence and Aerospace Sectors with Independent Testing
Equipment deployed in defence and aerospace applications faces some of the most unforgiving environments. From combat systems and naval hardware to space and aviation electronics, components must reliably withstand extreme shock, vibration, thermal stress, and throughout their operational life.
Austest offers unmatched technical expertise across environmental, mechanical and acoustic testing. Our single-site capability simplifies project management, minimises transit risks for sensitive equipment, and reduces overall qualification costs for prime contractors and tier suppliers alike.
Accredited Testing to Military and Commercial Standards
Our facilities are formally accredited for testing to rigorous military, international, and commercial standards relevant to defence and aerospace equipment, including but not limited to:
- MIL-STD-810
- MIL-STD-167-1A
- MIL-STD-202
- MIL-STD-883
- MIL-STD-1474
- MIL-STD-740-1
- MIL-STD-740-2
- MIL-HDBK-2036
- DEF STAN 00-35
- DEF(AUST) 5168
- RTCA DO-160
Our Aerospace and Defence Test Services
We offer extensive accredited aerospace and defence test services designed to help manufacturers and suppliers demonstrate compliance, reduce engineering risk, and secure entry into stringent global supply chains. Whatever stage your project is at, our team will help you determine the most efficient testing program to meet commercial, military, and international requirements.
Naval and Maritime Defence Systems
Austest is Australia’s leading provider of testing services for naval equipment, with a 15-year track record of supporting every major Royal Australian Navy (RAN) project – including ANZAC, Collins, AWD, and SEA1000. Our engineers possess an unrivalled understanding of RAN requirements and help suppliers confidently engage in SEA1000, SEA5000, and SEA1180 projects.
- SRS-based shipborne shock testing to BV043, MIL-S-901D/E, or equivalent standards
- MIL-STD-167 vibration testing of 2000kg payloads
- Static and dynamic inclination testing to MIL-HDBK-2036
- Environmental testing to MIL-STD-810
- Airborne and structure-borne noise testing to MIL-STD-1474 and MIL-STD-740-1/-2
We are especially proud to be the only provider capable of conducting Shock Response Spectrum (SRS) testing to simulate underwater explosions to Directorate of Navy Engineering (DNE) specifications. Our custom equipment delivers highly accurate pulses that prevent the severe over-testing common with obsolete alternative systems at the low frequency end of the spectrum, providing the best opportunity for a pass result while protecting suppliers from unnecessary over-design.
Space and Aerospace Systems
To support the unique demands of orbital and high-altitude flight, we combine specialised environmental simulation. We help space-sector innovators validate hardware survival and performance before deployment.
Combined Environmental Testing:
Specialised testing combining altitude, extreme shock, structural vibration, and low-temperature thermal cycling.
Our Process
Once the scope is agreed, our team carries out testing in accordance with the relevant military or commercial standards and provides clear, documented results.
As an independent, accredited test house, Austest Laboratories operates with complete impartiality. We can explain testing requirements, applicable standards, and the results of testing, but we do not guarantee formal certification outcomes or provide recommendations designed to influence test results.
If additional testing or investigation is required, we'll discuss the available options and work with you to determine the next steps.
Recent Projects
We have a proven track record and deep, established relationships with major defence prime contractors as well as a large network of tier-2 and tier-3 suppliers. Recent projects where environmental qualification, EMC/EMI, or RF testing was conducted by Austest Labs include:
- Naval Group – SEA1000
- Boeing Defence Australia – Land 2072 Phase 2B (Project Currawong, Battlefield Comms. System)
- Raytheon Australia – Collins In-Service Support (ISAW, CDWS-S, CSSM Sub IP, etc.)
- BAE Systems Australia – ESSM Block 2, ANZAC Mid-Life Capability Assurance Program (AMCAP), JP2069
- Thales Australia – LAND125 Phase 3C (EF88, F89A2)
- SAAB Systems Australia – SEA1439 Phase 3.1, Integrated Ship Control Management and Monitoring System Obsolescence Remediation (ISCMMS OR)
- AWD Alliance – SEA4000
Why Choose Austest for Aerospace and Defence Testing?
Let’s discuss your defence and aerospace test requirements. Get in touch with our team and receive a tailored quote today!
FAQs
What types of aerospace and defence products can Austest test?
We test a broad range of hardware, including naval shipborne equipment, vehicle-mounted electronics, battlefield communication systems, satellite sub-assemblies, antennas, wiring looms, and structural components. If you have unique payload or classification requirements, contact our team to discuss feasibility.
Why are aerospace and defence test services important?
Equipment deployed in these sectors must survive extreme physical and environmental stress without failure. Rigorous testing mitigates mission-critical risks, verifies compliance with strict military specifications (such as MIL-STD or DEF STAN), and is a mandatory gatekeeper for entering defence supply chains.
Can you help identify which standards apply to my product?
Yes. We can review your product’s application and target platform to help identify relevant military or commercial testing pathways. As an independent laboratory, we provide impartial guidance to align your project with evolving procurement requirements.
Can you test both individual components and finished products?
Yes. Depending on your program requirements, we can evaluate individual components, complex sub-assemblies, or fully integrated systems up to 2000kg for vibration and heavy structural shock.
Do you provide certification?
Austest Laboratories provides independent testing and accredited test reports, which serve as the verified evidence needed to support your compliance activities. Formal certification or project sign-off is typically granted by the relevant regulatory body or defence prime.
How do I get started?
Simply contact our team with details about your product, target standards, and timeline. We will discuss the available aerospace and defence testing configurations, project scope, and onboarding steps before preparing a detailed commercial quotation.