PNCER for Search and Rescue Brochure – An overview of Omni’s portable, next-generation search and rescue system designed to enable rapid deployment, enhanced situational awareness and effective emergency response operations.
Research and Innovation
Advancing Emergency Response Capability Through Innovation.
Omni’s Research & Innovation division strengthens Australia’s preparedness, response and resilience. We advance emergency response capability through disciplined research, emerging technologies and purpose-built innovation. Our work supports national security, critical infrastructure protection and sovereign capability development.
We explore new business ideas, early-stage technologies and advanced concepts that enhance operational performance for Defence and State Government partners. Our mandate is clear: deliver innovation that improves outcomes in complex, time-critical environments.
Success Story: PNCER Search & Rescue
PNCER demonstrates the value of purposeful research and innovation. Designed for rapid deployment and precise situational awareness, it has earned positive feedback from local government stakeholder for its operational performance. It represents Omni’s commitment to advancing Australia’s emergency response capability through sovereign innovation.
Core Focus Areas
Emergency Response Innovation
Omni prioritises innovation that delivers faster response times, improved coordination and enhanced situational awareness. We investigate and develop technologies that strengthen:
- Rapid search and rescue operations
- Aerial and maritime emergency response
- Sensor-driven real-time data
- Secure, resilient communication in high-pressure conditions
Our work is exemplified by our support to PNCER (Portable Network Cell For Emergency Response) a next-generation portable search and rescue capability that enables rapid deployment, precise detection and operational reliability across challenging environments.
Applied Research & Concept Evaluation
We assess emerging ideas and technology pathways that may deliver measurable advantage for Australia’s emergency management and defence sectors. This includes:
- Early feasibility reviews
- Laboratory-based concept testing
- Prototype development
- Alignment with operational requirements and regulatory standards
Only high-value, credible innovations progress to capability development.
Capability Development & Transition
We convert validated concepts into practical, deployable solutions for Defence and emergency services stakeholders. Our team manages:
- Pilot programs and field demonstrations
- Integration with existing platforms and systems
- User evaluation and performance validation
- Transition planning for adoption by government agencies
Every solution is engineered for durability, security and mission readiness.
Why Omni Leads in Emergency Response Innovation
We work with organisations responsible for Australia’s most important missions:
Multi-Domain Expertise
We leverage Omni’s broader national security, engineering and operational networks to accelerate research outcomes and improve capability pathways.
Partner-Focused Delivery
Our approach is shaped by collaboration with Defence, NSW Government and emergency response organisations. This ensures each solution reflects real-world operational requirements.
Sovereign Capability Commitment
Every R&I activity advances Australia’s sovereign emergency response capability — reducing dependence on foreign technology and strengthening national resilience.
Key Themes Driving Our Work
Emergency Response Performance
We advance solutions that enable faster detection, coordination and recovery during critical incidents.
Innovation with Purpose
Our research aligns directly to operational needs, ensuring every innovation improves Australia’s emergency readiness.
Operational Readiness
Solutions are designed for harsh environments and high-tempo scenarios, ensuring reliability when it matters most.
Engage With Omni’s Research & Innovation Team
We collaborate with Defence, emergency services and government partners seeking to strengthen emergency response capability through innovation.
Contact us to discuss:
- Emergency response innovation projects
- Research partnerships
- Search and rescue capability opportunities
- Demonstrator and evaluation programs
