Talon Zulu – AI Programming & Autonomous Systems Internship

Organisational Overview:

TALON ZULU was founded to revolutionise how Defence, Government, and Industry solve complex challenges. TALON ZULU accelerates the development and adoption of new and dual use capabilities for their customers by teaming with passionate innovative technology developers in a collaborative, positive and trusting environment. Their small team brings decades of proven expertise in rapid prototyping, innovation, and operational leadership. With extensive Defence and Industry networks, they thrive on turning vision into value—delivering at the speed of relevance to those who depend on it most.

Internship Scope

TALON ZULU is currently seeking an undergraduate final year student with a strong foundation in Artificial Intelligence (AI) programming, ideally with experience or a keen interest in autonomous systems and robotics.

Eligible students may receive a Defence Industry Connection Program Scholarship valued at up to $7,500

The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about learning and working with ArduPilot, an open-source autopilot software suite, to support the development and enhancement of mission control systems for TALON ZULU’s next-generation drone platform. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Rust and C++ (not necessarily all of them!), along with a problem-solving mindset and a passion for innovation in autonomous technologies, would be highly regarded.

The selected interns will work with the TALON ZULU Team together and selected Industry partners under the guidance and supervision of Highly Experienced Chartered Aeronautical Engineers and Subject Matter Experts. This internship offers direct exposure to the Defence Rapid Capability Development environment, providing a unique opportunity to contribute to real world projects that shape next generation autonomous systems. The role will be base at TALON ZULU’s headquarters in the Adelaide CBD, with flexibility for occasional virtual collaboration to accommodate project needs and study commitments.

Internship Duration:

8-20 weeks with flexibility to work part-time or full-time over different study periods

Expected learning outcomes for the intern: 

• Comprehensive understanding of Defence innovation processes, including exposure to rapid capability development cycles and operational requirements.
• Hands-on experience in UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) development, including flight control, mission planning, and integration of autonomous technologies.
• Application of Advanced programming skills in languages such as Python, Rust, and C++ to real-world autonomous systems and mission control software.
• Practical knowledge of Test & Evaluation (T&E) methodologies for Defence-grade UAS platforms, including performance analysis and system validation.
• Mentorship from highly experienced Chartered Engineers across aeronautical, mechanical, and network disciplines, gaining insights into engineering leadership and Defence industry best practices.
• Exposure to collaborative Defence–Industry environments, building professional networks with emerging leaders and technology innovators.

Anticipated Tasks for each role under the supervision of experienced engineers: 

• Programming and configuring flight control systems for both commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) and developmental UAS platforms using ArduPilot and related frameworks.
• Developing and refining mission control software to enhance autonomous capabilities and operational efficiency.
• Analysing and interpreting flight test data to inform design improvements and future capability development.
• Exploring and prototyping new software features for next-generation autonomous systems, including AI-driven decision-making and sensor integration.
• Supporting Test & Evaluation activities, including pre-flight checks, mission simulations, and post-flight performance assessments.
• Collaborating with Defence and Industry partners on cutting edge projects with real operational impact.

Student Eligibility:

Successful applicants must be:

• Australian citizens, residing in South Australia
• Enrolled in a relevant undergraduate discipline in University of Adelaide, University of South Australia or Flinders University
• Eligible to undertake a credit-bearing internship course for this internship experience
• Preference may be given to students who hold a baseline clearance

Application Closing: 10 December 2025 (11.59pm)

Anticipated Internship Commencement Date: January 2026

Application Process:

To be considered for this internship and the Defence Industry Connection Program Scholarship valued up to $7,500, please register your resume and ensure you click ‘apply for placement’ button at the top of this page.

Shortlisted applicants will be advised of the outcome approximately two to three weeks after application closing date.

For any queries, please contact the DICP Team (Saba or Taryn) at dicp@aigroup.com.au.