Israeli military tests Australian-designed weapon system despite Canberra’s denial

The Israeli military has tested an Australian-designed weapon system ahead of a potential purchase despite Canberra’s repeated denial that it is sending weapons to Israel, local media reported Friday.

Israel has completed trials of a remote weapon system designed by Canberra-based defense supplier Electro Optic Systems (EOS), according to ABC News.

Australia-made components were first sent to an EOS entity in the U.S. for assembly and then sent to Israel without an Australian export approval, it said.

The remote weapon system was one of dozens of counter-drone technologies tested by the Israeli army earlier this year, according to the report,

However, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Friday that his country would not sell arms to Israel.

“I am aware of this report that you refer to. We looked into this matter, and the company has confirmed with the Department of Defense that the particular system was not exported from Australia,” he told ABC.

Last year, Albanese also said his government does not provide weapons to Israel after intense pressure from local communities over Australia’s role in Israel’s war on Gaza.

Pro-Palestinian protesters in Australia have repeatedly urged Albanese’s government to impose sanctions on Israel for its war on the enclave.